Mazda MX-3
24.3 MPG The 1996 Mazda MX-3 is EPA-rated at 24.3 MPG combined (21.8 city / 29 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 617 gallons, $1975 a year in fuel, or $0.132 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 1992–1996 run it averages 23.8 MPG, essentially flat across 5 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 | $0.103 | $1029 | $1543 | $2058 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.123 | $1235 | $1852 | $2469 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.132 | $1317 | $1975 | $2634 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.144 | $1440 | $2160 | $2881 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.165 | $1646 | $2469 | $3292 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.185 | $1852 | $2778 | $3704 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.206 | $2058 | $3086 | $4115 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | 24.3 MPG | 21.8 | 29 | $2625 | 374 | 4 |
| 1995 | 23.8 MPG | 21.3 | 29 | $2663 | 380 | 4 |
| 1994 | 23.8 MPG | 21.3 | 29 | $2663 | 380 | 4 |
| 1993 | 23.5 MPG | 21 | 28 | $2688 | 383 | 4 |
| 1992 | 23.8 MPG | 21.3 | 28 | $2663 | 380 | 4 |
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 229 subcompact cars models tracked here, the Mazda MX-3 ranks 87 on current figures, against a class average of 24.2 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Ford Laser (24.5), Acura RSX (24.7), Audi A3 Cabriolet quattro (25), Audi A4 Cabriolet (25), Ford Escort ZX2 (25).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 374 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 5.6 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Mazda MX-3 get?
The 1996 Mazda MX-3 is rated at 24.3 MPG combined by the EPA — 21.8 city and 29 highway. Across all 5 model years in the database it averages 23.8 MPG, ranging from 20 to 29 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Mazda MX-3 cost in fuel per year?
At 24.3 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 617 gallons — roughly $1975 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.132 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 1996 model is $2625.
Has the Mazda MX-3 become more efficient over time?
Barely. It sits at 24.3 MPG today against 23.8 in 1992 — essentially flat across 5 model years, with efficiency gains offset by weight and power creep.
Is the Mazda MX-3 efficient for its class?
It ranks 87 of 229 in the Subcompact Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 24.2 MPG. That is 0.1 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.