The Mazda3 G20 Touring uses a 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 114kW and 200Nm. It is not especially powerful for the class, but there is enough performance for everyday commuting, suburban driving and highway use.
A six-speed automatic replaces the CVT found in several rivals, giving the Mazda3 a more conventional and responsive feel under acceleration. Steering is direct and the chassis feels composed, helping the Mazda3 deliver a more engaging driving experience than many mainstream small hatches.
Verdict: Smooth and enjoyable to drive, although outright performance is relatively modest.
The G20 Touring has a claimed combined fuel consumption of around 6.2L/100km, which is competitive for a naturally aspirated petrol hatch.
For drivers doing a mixture of urban and highway kilometres, the Mazda3 offers reasonable fuel efficiency without requiring a hybrid drivetrain. However, hybrid alternatives such as the Toyota Corolla Hybrid have a clear advantage for buyers prioritising the lowest possible fuel use.
Verdict: Competitive for a petrol hatch, but hybrid rivals are considerably more efficient.
Interior presentation is one of the Mazda3 G20 Touring's biggest strengths. Soft-touch materials, clean dashboard styling and an uncluttered design give it a noticeably more premium atmosphere than many mainstream small cars.
Touring specification adds leather trim, a power-adjustable driver's seat with memory, dual-zone climate control and an 8.8-inch widescreen infotainment display. The rotary controller takes some adjustment compared with a conventional touchscreen but keeps the dashboard clean.
Front-seat comfort is strong, but the Mazda3's styling compromises practicality. Rear accommodation is tighter than some rivals, while the 295-litre boot is adequate rather than particularly generous.
Verdict: One of the best-presented cabins in the class, with practicality its main compromise.
Mazda's Kodo design gives the hatch a low, flowing profile with clean surfacing and pronounced rear haunches. It avoids excessive creases and detailing, giving the car a more sophisticated appearance.
The Touring sits on 18-inch alloy wheels and features LED lighting, complementing its more premium positioning within the Mazda3 range.
Verdict: Distinctive and sophisticated styling that has aged particularly well.
The Mazda3 G20 Touring includes autonomous emergency braking, radar adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assistance, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
A head-up display places key information closer to the driver's line of sight, while the broader i-Activsense package adds useful assistance for highway and urban driving.
The Mazda3 achieved a 5-star ANCAP safety rating when tested in 2019, giving used buyers a strong safety specification for a vehicle of this age.
Verdict: Comprehensive safety and driver-assistance equipment remains one of the Mazda3's strengths.
The Mazda3 G20 Touring's value proposition comes from its specification and overall quality rather than simply being one of the cheapest used hatches available.
Leather trim, strong safety equipment, premium cabin presentation and attractive styling help justify its position against more basic small-car alternatives.
Condition, kilometres and service history should all be considered when comparing individual examples. Buyers should also decide whether the Mazda3's smaller boot and rear seat suit their needs before prioritising its more premium presentation.
Verdict: Good value for buyers prioritising quality, equipment and design over maximum practicality.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2020 Mazda3 G20 Touring?
The 2020 Mazda3 G20 Touring combines an upmarket interior, attractive styling, enjoyable road manners and a comprehensive safety package. It feels more premium than many mainstream small hatches of a similar age.
Rear-seat space and boot capacity are not class-leading, while the 2.0-litre petrol engine delivers adequate rather than exciting performance. Buyers focused heavily on fuel economy may also prefer a hybrid alternative.
For buyers wanting a used hatch that places greater emphasis on quality, design and driving refinement, the Mazda3 G20 Touring remains a compelling all-round package.
Looking to upgrade to a stylish, well-equipped hatch like the Mazda3? Cars4Us has a wide range of quality used vehicles to suit different lifestyles and needs. Browse our latest stock online or visit our Eagle Farm showroom to find your next car.
