Which Mazda3 trim holds its value better?

By Chad Luckhoff

We look at the Mazda3 hatchback and calculate, based on average market value, the depreciation per trim level.

The Mazda3 is a well-rounded and familiar family hatchback. Introduced in 2014, the compact hatchback has been with us for several years now, proving to be a robust and reliable offering. The second-generation (2014 - 2019) Mazda3 will be replaced shortly and this makes the second-generation ripe for the picking, with deals to be had all over. But which one do you choose?

We looked at the 2016 model year and calculated how much they have depreciated over the last three years. We didn't factor in mileage or condition of the vehicle and took an average market value, comparing it to the original sales price in 2016. This also doesn't account for inflation along the way.

While the trim levels were fairly standardized, some variation may occur due to optional extras that have been fitted, although not much was available in the way of options in 2016.

Here's how they fare:

 

1.6 Original 5dr

Original purchase price
R258 900

Average market value
R194 000

Percentage loss
25%

 

1.6 Active 5dr

Original purchase price
R271 800

Average market value
R200 000

Percentage loss
26.4%

 

1.6 Dynamic 5dr

Original purchase price
R284 900

Average market value
R198 000

Percentage loss
30.5%

 

1.6 Dynamic Auto 5dr

Original purchase price
R295 900

Average market value
R209 000

Percentage loss
29.3%

 

2.0 Individual 5dr

Original purchase price
R331 900

Average market value
R230 000

Percentage loss
30.7%

 

2.0 Individual Auto 5dr

Original purchase price
R343 900

Average market value
R215 000

Percentage loss
37.4%

 

2.0 Astina 5dr

Original purchase price
R378 400

Average market value
R230 000

Percentage loss
39.2%

 

Verdict:

While there isn't much in it, with most models suffering between 20 and 30% loss in value, the biggest losers are the higher-spec level models, the Astina and Individual Auto. The lower-spec derivatives hold their value seemingly well over the course of three years with the pick of the litter being the Original 5dr manual.

With this in mind, we can comfortably justify the additional loss of the higher-end cars as they offer a higher standard spec level from the factory and are well worth the premium.