The 2022 Mazda 3 5-Door 2WD 2.5L gets 29 MPG combined. While this won’t win any hypermiling contests, it’s a reasonable figure for a vehicle that prioritizes driving enjoyment and stylish design over extreme frugality. Buyers understand this trade-off. They’re attracted to the Mazda 3’s engaging handling, premium interior, and distinctive Kodo design, and they accept slightly lower fuel economy compared to some more utilitarian competitors. This isn’t a car bought solely for its ability to save gas; it’s bought for the feeling it delivers behind the wheel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Mazda 3 5-Door 2.5L are 26 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure is typical for vehicles without hybrid assistance or advanced fuel-saving technologies like cylinder deactivation, which are not present in this model. The 2.5L engine, while offering good power, needs to work harder in stop-and-go traffic. On the highway, the Mazda 3 settles into a more efficient rhythm.

At cruising speeds, the engine isn’t under as much load, and the automatic transmission can use its higher gears to maximize fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the average annual fuel cost for the 2022 Mazda 3 5-Door 2WD 2.5L is $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. For some, this $1,500 is an acceptable expense when owning a fun-to-drive hatchback with a premium feel. Others may find it a bit higher than desired and explore ways to improve their fuel economy or consider alternative vehicles. Remember to check all Mazda fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, terrain, and tire pressure can all impact fuel efficiency. Drivers who frequently accelerate quickly or spend significant time idling in traffic are likely to see lower MPG than the EPA estimates.

However, those who drive gently and prioritize highway travel may exceed the EPA’s ratings. These kinds of deviations from EPA figures are true for nearly all cars, and you can find 3 MPG across all years on our site.

How it compares

The Mazda 3 5-Door’s fuel economy is in an interesting spot in the compact hatchback segment. The Honda Civic Hatchback with its 1.5L turbo engine gets 35 MPG combined in its EX-L trim, significantly better than the Mazda. The Toyota Corolla Hatchback manages around 32 MPG combined.

The Mazda 3 offers a more upscale interior and a more engaging driving experience than many competitors. Buyers often accept the slight MPG difference because of the Mazda’s responsive engine and refined ride quality. A Hyundai Elantra hatchback, depending on trim, is around 33 MPG, another option that requires weighing fuel economy vs other characteristics.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important. The Mazda 3’s 2.5L engine responds eagerly, but aggressive acceleration burns fuel. Smoothly applying power will help you maintain momentum and reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce your vehicle’s weight. Extra cargo adds weight, which increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and backseat to improve your MPG.

Minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel, so avoid letting your car sit with the engine running for extended periods. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go.