The MAZDA 3 (2004-09) 5DR HATCHBACK 1.4 84 S is a five-door family hatchback, roomier and more practical than a city car. In the UK used-car market, it competes with the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf, offering an affordable everyday choice suited to commuting, errands and family trips. mycarcheck.com records 105 look-ups across 66 different VINs, a useful sample of cars checked. Those vehicles averaged 94,000 miles, around 8,000 miles a year, and just under four previous keepers. The average private-sale valuation was £900, so condition, history and maintenance matter greatly when judging any example before you buy. The 1.4-litre petrol engine is a modest choice, best for calm commuting, new drivers and small households rather than rapid motorway passing or heavy loads. The Mazda 3 is praised for feeling composed and enjoyable, with a purposeful design; a well-kept example offers useful hatchback versatility at an entry price.