Here at Carbuzz, we've never been shy when it comes to expressing our fondness for the Mazda3, and especially the 2.5 Turbo version of the unassuming compact. We've named it the most underrated model offered by the brand, and we're first in line to give the car a pat on the back every time it aces a crash test. Reviewing the 2024 Mazda3, we called it "mature, refined, and confidently different," praising the premium-feeling cabin and the potent turbocharged powertrain found in the Turbo models.Without the relative flash of a Civic Type R or a GR Corolla, the Mazda3's stylish but understated body design allows it to blend into a parking lot without giving away its sub-six-second 0-60 time and top speeds electronically limited to 134 mph. In short, the vehicle is quicker than it looks. Besides being an affordable sleeper, it's also incredibly reliable. Here's why. Here's What We Mean By "Reliable" Mazda When we say that the Mazda 3 Sedan is reliable, we mean that it clears the bar of basic dependability, no matter what measuring stick you want to hold up to it. Let's start with a look at the car's JD Power Quality & Reliability ratings over the last five model years for which it was rated...Rounding up various reliability ratings and maintenance for the car from leading sources, here's what we turn up...At the very least, the Mazda3 Sedan earns an above-average score pretty much anywhere you care to look, and maintenance costs come in well below the segment average. RepairPal estimates most compacts running about $526 each year to maintain, meaning that you're pocketing nearly a full Benjamin Franklin on a yearly basis. Even with inflation being as it is, that's enough to afford a decent steak dinner for two, and we're not going to turn our noses up at that. What Can Go Wrong With A Mazda3 Sedan? Mazda According to RepairPal, these issues rank among the most expensive common fixes for a Mazda3: Seat heater replacement $1,018 - $1,075 Rack and pinion replacement $961 - $1,181 Airbag control module replacement $835 - $870 Radiator hose replacement $433 - $507 EGR valve replacement $312 - $396 CarComplaints lists the 2010 Mazda3 as the most troubled model year, thanks to a handful of issues with the interior accessories. If we're only looking at the current generation Mazda3, that is, from the 2019 model year on, you only need to worry about that first-year model. The 2019 Mazda3 has 21 complaints on file with the database, while nothing from 2020 on has more than two or three complaints in total.Mazda To go over the most worrying issues listed here: A 2019 Mazda3 owner reports transmission failure at just 28,600 miles, with the fix involving a $4,000 replacement for the whole transmission. Another 2019 owner reports the transmission jerking and lurching at low speeds. They didn't report a fix or what it cost to repair it. A 2020 Mazda3 owner reports shaking while accelerating at just 30,000 miles. No solution was listed. A 2021 Mazda3 owner reports a tire blowing out at 70,000 miles when they hit a bump. Thankfully, no extensive damage was suffered, and it only cost them $200 for a new tire. A 2022 Mazda3 driver reports the windshield cracking for no reason at just 250 miles. A new windshield cost them $500. Long story short: no car is perfect, but there's nothing about a Mazda 3 that will have you losing sleep. The car is remarkably reliable, and most common problems are cheap to fix. Here's What We Mean By "Sleeper" Mazda When you describe a car as "reliable" and "safe," it almost sounds like you're saying "it's no fun to drive, it's boring, and it's not that pretty, but on the upside..." Well, that's not the Mazda3 Sedan. Let's compare the specs side by side with those of its fellow turbo sedans, the Toyota GR Corolla and the Honda Civic Si.The GR Corolla comparison might not be entirely fair, as it's more of a direct competitor for the Civic Type R than the Civic Si and the 2.5 Turbo Sedan, but bear in mind that the GR Corolla starts at a base MSRP of $39,920 for the 2026 model year. The Civic Si can be yours for a more reasonable starting price of $31,495, and the Mazda 3's turbo trims start at just $36,740.If money is no object, there are quicker, faster, and slicker cars out there than a Mazda 3. But it's hard to beat at just over $36,740. Here's What We Mean By "Affordable"... Mazda3 To go over the Mazda 3 Sedan trim by trim, here's what the current MSRPs look like for a 2026 model...In previous years, there was a turbocharged version of the Carbon Trim, but for 2026 Mazda only offers one turbocharged 3 Sedan. Thankfully, it's the top-spec model with all-wheel drive, and no optional packages. That means you get everything included as standard. The only option we'd go for is Soul Red for $595, as it remains the best red in the mainstream automotive industry. If you're looking to save a few bucks with a used Mazda, our advice would be to give it a thorough test-drive and make sure you're not driving a modified Mazda 3. Pretty much anything with a turbo in it is going to be a popular starting point for hot-rodders. That said, here's what you can expect to pay for the current generation, by model year, according to the CarBuzz Marketplace. The bottom line is that the Mazda 3 Sedan 2.5 Turbo proves you can have it all: safety, affordability, great pricing, and fun. It's a joy to drive, it's got plenty of pep in its step, and it's accessible on a working person's budget. In our book, this humble little sleeper simply doesn't get enough praise.