Used Mazda 3 for sale in Europe

About the Mazda 3

The Mazda3 is a compact family car sold as a five-door hatchback and as a four-door saloon. It competes with cars such as the Volkswagen Golf and the Ford Focus. It suits buyers who want a conventional, well-equipped small car for commuting and family use. Our listings cover model years from 2003 to 2027, so the range runs from older budget cars to nearly new ones.

Engines have changed a lot over the generations. Early cars used conventional petrol and diesel engines. From 2013 the Skyactiv petrol and diesel engines arrived, with a choice of manual and automatic gearboxes. The current generation adds mild-hybrid petrol versions and the Skyactiv-X petrol engine. Listings also include some LPG cars, which are usually aftermarket conversions rather than factory builds.

Generations

• First generation, BK (2003-2009) — The first Mazda3 was sold as a hatchback and a saloon with petrol and diesel engines.
• Second generation, BL (2009-2013) — A refined version of the same layout, with petrol and diesel engines and a stop-start system called i-stop on some versions.
• Third generation, BM (2013-2019) — Introduced the Skyactiv petrol and diesel engines and a new platform, and received an update in 2016 that added G-Vectoring Control.
• Fourth generation, BP (2019-present) — Offers mild-hybrid Skyactiv-G petrol engines and the Skyactiv-X engine, with a newer interior and driver-assistance systems.

Typical prices

Across the listings, the median asking price is €13,900, but the spread by model year is wide. Cars from 2003 to 2008 sit at similar low levels, with little difference between years. From 2009 prices step up. The median for 2010 is €3,800, for 2019 it is €16,800 and for 2026 it is €30,400. Within a single year, mileage, engine, trim and country of sale move the price further. These are asking prices in our listings on 2026-11-10, not a valuation.

Based on our listings as of 2026-11-10. These are asking prices, not a valuation.

What to check when buying a used Mazda 3

Ask for the full service history and compare it with the mileage. Inspect the car in daylight, take a test drive that includes a cold start, and check for warning lights on the dash.

• Rust on older cars · BK and BL (2003-2013)

  Look closely at the sills, wheel arches, rear arches and the area around the boot lid and tailgate. Corrosion on older Mazda3 cars is widely discussed. Check underneath for flaking underseal and previous repairs, especially on cars from salted-road countries.

• Diesel particulate filter care · Diesel engines

  Diesel cars used mainly for short trips can have particulate filter problems. Ask how the car was used, check for warning lights, and look at the oil level and service records. Fuel getting into the oil during filter regeneration is a topic worth raising with the seller.

• Infotainment screen and software · BM (2013-2019)

  Test the central display, its controller knob, Bluetooth and navigation. Faults and worn screen coatings are commonly reported on cars with the MZD Connect system. Check that the system starts quickly and responds properly to every input.

• Software and hybrid system · BP Skyactiv-X and mild hybrid

  Ask whether the manufacturer's software updates have been carried out, and look for these in the service record. Check that the mild-hybrid and stop-start functions work and that no warning lights appear after a longer drive.

• LPG conversion paperwork · LPG cars

  LPG on a Mazda3 is usually an aftermarket conversion. Ask for the installer's documents, inspection records and tank details. Check that the car switches smoothly between fuels and that the service history covers the gas system.

• Gearbox, clutch and brakes

  On a test drive, check that gear changes are smooth and the clutch bites cleanly. On automatics, watch for hesitation or jerks. Also check brake discs, tyres and suspension for uneven wear, which can point to neglect or accident damage.

Frequently asked questions