MAZDA CX-3 (2018)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 9,124 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
9,124
Avg Mileage
39,264 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,482
Is the 2018 MAZDA CX-3 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 10 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 6 years old, 92% of MAZDA CX-3s from 2018 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 9,124 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 39,264 miles.
How does the 2018 MAZDA CX-3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2018 MAZDA CX-3 has 39,264 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 44,400 miles for a 6-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MAZDA CX-3?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2015 model has the lowest at 85%. The 2018 sits between the two at 92%.
How much does a 2018 MAZDA CX-3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MAZDA CX-3 by Year
Checking a specific MAZDA CX-3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2018 MAZDA CX-3
The 2018 MAZDA CX-3 is a family car with a 1798cc diesel engine. 9,124 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2018, the average MOT pass rate is 89%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 39,264 miles at 6 years old, MAZDA CX-3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2018 MAZDA CX-3 Fuel Costs
The 1798cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2018 MAZDA CX-3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,482 (£124/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 92% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
MAZDA CX-3 Reliability Trend
Newer MAZDA CX-3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 6 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2018 MAZDA CX-3
At 6 years old, the MAZDA CX-3 offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 93%. With 9,124 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2018 MAZDA CX-3
The MAZDA CX-3 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2017) 91% pass rate (-1%) from 127,682 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (-3%) from 93,803 tests
- MERCEDES A (2019) 91% pass rate (-1%) from 89,588 tests
- MERCEDES A-CLASS (2017) 88% pass rate (-4%) from 82,055 tests