Reliability race: mazda 3 vs subaru impreza – who’s got the winning edge?

When it comes to compact sedans, the Mazda 3 and Subaru Impreza stand out as two popular choices. Both vehicles offer a blend of performance, style, and practicality. However, one key factor that buyers often consider is reliability. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Mazda 3 vs Subaru Impreza reliability, examining their respective strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

RepairPal Reliability Ratings

RepairPal, a leading automotive repair cost estimator, provides valuable insights into vehicle reliability. According to their ratings, the Mazda 3 has a slightly higher reliability score than the Subaru Impreza. The Mazda 3 receives a score of 4.0 out of 5, while the Impreza earns a score of 3.5 out of 5. This indicates that the Mazda 3 is expected to experience fewer repairs and lower maintenance costs over its lifetime.

J.D. Power Dependability Studies

J.D. Power, another reputable automotive research firm, conducts annual dependability studies. In their 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study, the Mazda 3 ranked above average in its segment, while the Subaru Impreza ranked slightly below average. This suggests that the Mazda 3 is more likely to be free from problems during the first three years of ownership.

Consumer Reports Reliability Data

Consumer Reports is a non-profit organization that provides unbiased product reviews and ratings. Based on their extensive owner surveys, the Mazda 3 has consistently received higher reliability ratings than the Subaru Impreza. In their 2023 Annual Auto Reliability Survey, the Mazda 3 was ranked among the top 10 most reliable compact cars, while the Impreza fell outside of the top 20.

Common Problems Reported

While both the Mazda 3 and Subaru Impreza are generally reliable vehicles, they have some reported common problems. For the Mazda 3, these include issues with the infotainment system, transmission, and suspension. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, has been known to experience problems with its head gaskets, fuel pumps, and brake rotors.

Maintenance Costs

Maintenance costs can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle as well as the frequency and type of maintenance performed. According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for the Mazda 3 is approximately $476, while the Subaru Impreza costs around $514. These costs include routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.

Warranty Coverage

Both the Mazda 3 and Subaru Impreza come with comprehensive warranty coverage. The Mazda 3 offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Subaru Impreza provides a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Which is More Reliable?

Based on the various reliability ratings, owner surveys, and reported common problems, the Mazda 3 has a slight edge over the Subaru Impreza in terms of reliability. The Mazda 3 consistently ranks higher in RepairPal, J.D. Power, and Consumer Reports reliability studies. While both vehicles are expected to be reliable, the Mazda 3 is more likely to be free from major repairs and require lower maintenance costs over the long term.

The Final Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between the Mazda 3 and Subaru Impreza depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If reliability is your top concern, the Mazda 3 is the more reliable option based on the available data. However, if you value other factors such as all-wheel drive capability or a more rugged exterior, the Subaru Impreza may be a better fit.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Which is more reliable, the Mazda 3 or the Subaru Impreza?
Based on various reliability ratings and owner surveys, the Mazda 3 is considered to be more reliable than the Subaru Impreza.

2. What are the common problems reported for the Mazda 3?
Common problems reported for the Mazda 3 include issues with the infotainment system, transmission, and suspension.

3. What are the common problems reported for the Subaru Impreza?
Common problems reported for the Subaru Impreza include issues with the head gaskets, fuel pumps, and brake rotors.

4. Which vehicle has lower maintenance costs?
The Mazda 3 has slightly lower average annual maintenance costs compared to the Subaru Impreza.

5. Which vehicle has a better warranty coverage?
Both the Mazda 3 and Subaru Impreza offer comprehensive warranty coverage, with similar terms for the basic and powertrain warranties.