Mazda3 0-60 Times: A 17 Year Hibernation
Mazda3 0-60 times have been largely unremarkable throughout the years, vacillating between the low 7-second to the high 8-second range.
However, with the introduction of the fourth generation - and the turbocharged engine that came with it - the Mazda3 took a drastic leap forward, with the fastest trim getting to 60mph in just 5.6 seconds.
Below we have a curated list of Mazda3 0-60 times over the years, which should provide a clear picture of the Mazda3's performance history.
Mazda 3 0-60 Times
Analysis
Looking through the list above, you’ll notice a dizzying amount of configurations. Different transmissions, engines, body styles, and trim names.
The i trim featured the 2.0-liter engine while the s trim featured the 2.3-liter engine, until 2010 when the s trim was upgraded to a 2.5-liter engine, which boosted horsepower by 11. It didn’t improve the 0-60 time however, which actually decreased slightly.
The 2.0-liter engine saw 0-60 times in the high 7s to high 8s range, with performance dependent on the transmission being used, up until this engine was dropped in 2023.
The 2.3 and 2.5-liter engines didn’t fare much better, with 0-60 times in the low 7s through 2020. Performance was clearly not a priority in the Mazda3, as that would mark 17 years where acceleration hardly budged.
However, the segment the Mazda3 competes in is not traditionally known for speed, but rather for being both practical and affordable, so it's somewhat forgivable.
The Mazda would awaken from hibernation in 2021 when Mazda introduced a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that bumped the horsepower up to 227, an over 40 horsepower increase. With higher octane fuel, the total horsepower would be 250, which propelled the Mazda3 Turbo Premium Plus to a 5.6 second 0-60 time, fast enough to have caught up to the Subaru WRX.
Verdict
The Mazda3's 0-60 time history is relatively dull; the car debuted with lackluster acceleration and showed no improvement until the fourth generation, however, this is not exactly a surprise given the segment it competes in.
Frequently Asked Question
Is a Mazda3 a fast car?
The Mazda3 offers a range of performance capabilities depending on the model and engine choice. While it's not typically classified as a "fast" car in the realm of sports cars, certain variants, particularly those equipped with the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, offer brisk acceleration that can provide a spirited driving experience. The standard models with the 2.0-liter and naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engines offer moderate performance that's adequate for daily driving but might not satisfy those seeking high-speed thrills.
What is the 0 to 60 time on a Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo?
The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo, when fueled with 93 octane gasoline, can achieve a 0 to 60 mph time of approximately 5.6 seconds. This performance places it competitively within the compact car segment, offering a blend of everyday usability and exciting acceleration.
Is Mazda3 2.0 fast?
The Mazda3 equipped with the 2.0-liter engine offers respectable performance for daily driving needs, with acceleration that's adequate for city and highway driving. However, it's not designed to be a performance variant, so while it provides a comfortable and efficient ride, it doesn't deliver the same level of brisk acceleration as the more powerful 2.5-liter or turbocharged models.
How fast can a Mazda3 go?
The top speed of a Mazda3 can vary depending on the engine and model year. Generally, Mazda3 models have an electronically limited top speed of around 130 mph, particularly for the turbocharged variants. Naturally aspirated models may have slightly lower top speeds due to their engine configurations and power output.
Why do Mazdas feel fast?
Mazdas, including the Mazda3, often feel fast due to their precise handling, responsive steering, and well-tuned suspension systems. Mazda engineers its vehicles with a focus on the "Jinba Ittai" philosophy, which aims to create a sense of oneness between the car and driver. This results in a driving experience that's engaging and dynamic, making the car feel quicker and more responsive, especially on winding roads and during spirited driving sessions.
About the Author
Max F. Arellano
While researching cars awhile back, I encountered a frustrating trend: the available 0-60 resources felt outdated, resembling little more than glorified Excel spreadsheets. Moreover, they seemed outright unwelcoming to mobile users, adding an extra layer of inconvenience to the process.
Drawing on my expertise in software engineering, I embarked on the journey to establish ZeroSixty, aiming to craft an authentic next-generation resource.