Under the bonnet is a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine producing 139kW and 252Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
Rather than chasing outright performance, the G25 delivers smooth and predictable power that suits everyday driving particularly well. The larger engine gives the Astina useful extra response when overtaking or joining faster traffic, while the conventional six-speed automatic provides a more familiar driving experience than the CVTs found in several rivals.
The Mazda3’s chassis is another highlight. Steering is direct and composed, and there is enough involvement through corners to make the car enjoyable without sacrificing its everyday comfort.
Verdict: Smooth performance and an engaging chassis make the G25 one of the more enjoyable small cars to drive.
Despite using the larger 2.5-litre engine, the Mazda3 G25 remains relatively economical.
Claimed combined consumption sits at around 6.5L/100km for the sedan and 6.6L/100km for the hatch, with both using a 51-litre fuel tank.
There are more efficient hybrid alternatives available, but the Mazda strikes a good balance between performance and fuel use for buyers who prefer a conventional petrol drivetrain.
Verdict: Competitive economy considering the performance and engine size.
The cabin is one of the strongest reasons to choose the Astina.
Materials, switchgear and overall presentation feel more upmarket than you might expect from a mainstream small car. Astina equipment includes leather-accented heated seats, a head-up display, sunroof and 12-speaker Bose audio system, helping give the flagship model a genuinely premium feel.
An 8.8-inch central display handles infotainment and is primarily operated through Mazda’s rotary controller on the centre console. It keeps the dashboard clean and reduces the need to reach towards the screen while driving, although buyers accustomed to touchscreen systems may need some time to adjust.
Passenger space is comfortable up front, while rear-seat accommodation is adequate rather than class-leading.
Practicality also depends on which body style you choose. The hatch offers around 295 litres of boot capacity, while the sedan increases this significantly to approximately 444 litres.
Verdict: Excellent cabin quality and equipment, although the hatch sacrifices some practicality for its styling.
The BP-generation Mazda3 remains one of the most distinctive small cars on Australian roads.
Its minimalist styling gives it a cleaner and more premium appearance than many competitors, particularly in hatch form with its sculpted rear bodywork and flowing profile.
The Astina adds 18-inch alloy wheels and full LED lighting, complementing the already sharp exterior design without making it overly aggressive.
The sedan takes a more traditional approach and arguably looks more mature, giving buyers two quite different interpretations of the same car.
Verdict: Stylish, distinctive and still one of the best-looking options in the segment.
The Mazda3 comes with a strong range of active and passive safety technology.
Key features include:
The Mazda3 received a 5-star ANCAP safety rating in 2019, supported by Mazda’s i-Activsense driver-assistance technology.
As with any used vehicle, it is worth checking that cameras, sensors and other driver-assistance systems are functioning correctly, particularly if the vehicle has previously undergone windscreen or body repairs.
Verdict: A comprehensive safety package that remains competitive for a 2023 small car.
The G25 Astina was positioned as the premium Mazda3 when new, so it naturally carried a higher price than more basic versions.
That positioning becomes more interesting on the used market. Buyers can access the Astina’s larger engine, leather-accented interior, Bose audio, sunroof and additional technology without paying the original new-car premium.
Its biggest limitation from a value perspective is practicality. Buyers primarily concerned with rear-seat room or luggage capacity may find alternatives such as the Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30 or Kia Cerato better suited to their needs.
For those prioritising quality, design and driving experience, however, the Astina makes a strong case.
Verdict: Strong used value if premium features and driving experience matter more than maximum space.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy a 2023 Mazda3 G25 Astina?
The 2023 Mazda3 G25 Astina is a strong choice for buyers who want something more refined than the typical small hatch or sedan.
Its 2.5-litre petrol engine provides smooth everyday performance, while the well-finished cabin, generous Astina equipment and sharp exterior design give it a genuinely premium character. It is also one of the more enjoyable cars in its class from behind the wheel.
The main consideration is practicality. The hatch has a relatively small boot, while rear-seat space in both versions is less generous than some competitors. If carrying passengers and luggage regularly is a priority, the sedan is likely to be the more practical choice.
When inspecting a used example, look for a complete service history, consistent tyre wear and evidence of quality previous repairs. It is also worth spending some time with Mazda’s rotary-controlled infotainment system during the test drive to make sure you are comfortable with how it operates.
If space is not your number-one priority, the Mazda3 G25 Astina remains one of the most polished and appealing used small cars of its era.
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Explore our range of used vehicles and find the right car for your lifestyle, or trade in your current vehicle when you’re ready to make the move.
