Mazda CX-3 2WD
31 MPG The 2021 Mazda CX-3 2WD is EPA-rated at 31 MPG combined (29 city / 34 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 484 gallons, $1548 a year in fuel, or $0.103 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2016–2021 run it averages 31 MPG, essentially flat across 6 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.081 | $806 | $1210 | $1613 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.097 | $968 | $1452 | $1935 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.103 | $1032 | $1548 | $2065 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.113 | $1129 | $1694 | $2258 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.129 | $1290 | $1935 | $2581 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.145 | $1452 | $2177 | $2903 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.161 | $1613 | $2419 | $3226 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 31 MPG | 29 | 34 | $2000 | 289 | 1 |
| 2020 | 31 MPG | 29 | 34 | $2000 | 289 | 1 |
| 2019 | 31 MPG | 29 | 34 | $2000 | 289 | 1 |
| 2018 | 31 MPG | 29 | 34 | $2000 | 290 | 1 |
| 2017 | 31 MPG | 29 | 34 | $2000 | 288 | 1 |
| 2016 | 31 MPG | 29 | 35 | $2000 | 290 | 1 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 227 compact cars models tracked here, the Mazda CX-3 2WD ranks 30 on current figures, against a class average of 26.6 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Honda Civic 2Dr (32), Toyota Echo (32), Nissan Versa (32.5), Volkswagen Golf (32.5), Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE (33).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 289 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 4.3 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Mazda CX-3 2WD get?
The 2021 Mazda CX-3 2WD is rated at 31 MPG combined by the EPA — 29 city and 34 highway. Across all 6 model years in the database it averages 31 MPG, ranging from 31 to 31 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Mazda CX-3 2WD cost in fuel per year?
At 31 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 484 gallons — roughly $1548 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.103 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2021 model is $2000.
Has the Mazda CX-3 2WD become more efficient over time?
Barely. It sits at 31 MPG today against 31 in 2016 — essentially flat across 6 model years, with efficiency gains offset by weight and power creep.
Is the Mazda CX-3 2WD efficient for its class?
It ranks 30 of 227 in the Compact Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 26.6 MPG. That is 4.4 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.