Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Mazda 3 SP25 2017 review: snapshot

EXPERT RATING
7
The SP25 (starting at $25,690) marks the introduction to the range of the larger, more powerful 2.5-litre 'SkyActiv' engine.

The SP25 marks the introduction to the range of the larger, more powerful 2.5-litre 'SkyActiv' engine. Priced close to the 2.0 Touring, a manual will cost you $25,690 and the auto $27,690. The spec is more closely based on the Maxx, however, with cloth trim, leather highlights (steering wheel, gear selector and handbrake) dual zone climate control, 18-inch wheels, cruise control and power folding mirrors.

Your choice of sedan or hatch doesn't affect the price but comes with a 100 litre difference in boot capacity, the sedan winning out with 408 litres.

Mazda's 'MZD Connect' touchscreen media system handles the stereo and navigation duties. The 7.0-inch screen is attached to the top of the dash with sat nav, DAB+ digital radio, six speakers, USB and Bluetooth. Limited app integration is available but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is not. MZD Connect can be controlled via the touchscreen (when the car is stopped) or on the move using the console-mounted rotary dial and shortcut buttons.

The 3 range has a strong safety package, including forward auto emergency braking (AEB), six airbags, ABS and stability controls, reversing camera as well as reverse cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring and reverse AEB.

The SP25's engine boost power to 138kW (up 24kW) and 250Nm (up 50Nm), while fuel consumption rises to a claimed 6.5L/100km for the manual and 6.1L/100km for the auto.

Pricing guides

$21,111
Based on 277 cars listed for sale in the last 6 months
Lowest Price
$13,989
Highest Price
$27,990

Range and Specs

VehicleSpecsPrice*
Neo 2.0L, ULP, 6 SP MAN $13,530 – 17,820 2017 Mazda 3 2017 Neo Pricing and Specs
Neo 2.0L, ULP, 6 SP AUTO $14,850 – 19,580 2017 Mazda 3 2017 Neo Pricing and Specs
SP25 2.5L, ULP, 6 SP MAN $16,280 – 20,900 2017 Mazda 3 2017 SP25 Pricing and Specs
SP25 2.5L, ULP, 6 SP AUTO $19,030 – 24,090 2017 Mazda 3 2017 SP25 Pricing and Specs
EXPERT RATING
7
Peter Anderson
Contributing journalist

Share

Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication.  Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.