Overview
The Mazda 3 is a small vehicle available in hatchback and sedan configurations. It has two engine options: an improved four-cylinder turbocharged engine that comes with standard all-wheel drive, or a basic four-cylinder base engine. The Mazda 3 may not be as useful or efficient as some of its rivals, but it does have one major advantage: driving is incredibly enjoyable.
The Mazda 3 will get new trim levels for 2024, one of which is the Carbon Turbo specification, which adds many of the features from the 2.5 Turbo model to the base model. The Select Sport package, which takes the place of the former Select package, is also new. The addition of an optional 10.25-inch center touchscreen, however, is the biggest piece of news. This is a good adjustment as we found the conventional 8.8-inch screen’s rotary dial interface to be a little awkward. On 2.5 Turbo versions, the technology is standard and adds wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Fuel Efficiency and Actual MPG
The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder sedan is the most fuel-efficient Mazda3, receiving EPA ratings of 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the interstate. With ratings of 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, the turbocharged hatchback variant with all-wheel drive is the least fuel-efficient. On our 75 mph highway fuel economy route, we tested an all-wheel-drive automatic car with a 2.5-liter nonturbo engine, and it achieved an amazing 41 mpg.
Performance, Powertrain and Shift
With the 3, Mazda provides two alternative engine options, the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower. Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available with this engine. Limited to the priciest Turbo variants, a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 250 horsepower is offered. If they choose front-wheel drive, buyers can still have a six-speed manual transmission. Selecting the all-wheel drive option requires an automatic transmission with six speeds.
All three are responsive to inputs from the gas pedal, but only the turbocharged engine gives the three a gratifyingly fast acceleration. The turbocharged engine tested well; we were able to reach 60 mph in a quick 5.6 seconds. On both straight and winding highways, the hatchback and sedan seem calm and offer a smooth ride. The new Mazda 3 has won our admiration for keeping a lot of the fun-to-drive qualities of the previous generation. Its natural-feeling steering, taut body control, and well-controlled ride avoid punishing passengers on bumpy routes.
Cargo, Comfort, and Interior
There is a little less cargo space than usual. The rear seats cannot be lowered from the cargo space, despite the storage area’s depth. We prefer the front occupants’ center storage options, which include a small cubby to the left of the steering wheel and a long, wide tray that can fit most personal goods. There aren’t many storage alternatives for rear passengers, and the size of the door pockets is standard.
The interior of the 3 is generally comfortable, with sturdy and comfy front seats that make for comfortable driving all day. While there isn’t a bothersome drone, the most audible sound is some engine noise during heavy and moderate acceleration. The baritone thrum produced by the turbocharged engine is actually rather charming. There is less annoying road noise throughout the lineup.
Connectivity and Entertainment
The standard 8.8-inch infotainment display appears much larger than it is because of a tastefully designed bezel that sits between two dash mats that resemble pillows. Turbo variants have a larger display, measuring 10.3 inches. The infotainment interface is simple to operate and is only accessible through a rotary knob positioned on the console, regardless of the screen. Although SiriusXM satellite radio and a 12-speaker Bose music system are optional, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
2024 Mazda Prices
Depending on the specification and extras, the 2024 Mazda 3 might cost anywhere from $25,335 to $36,615.
Base Base $25,335, Select Sport $25,855, Preferred $27,355, Carbon Edition $30,225, Premium $31, 515, Carbon Turbo $34,115 Turbo Premiums Plus $3
The 3 hatchback’s unique look makes it appealing, although visibility is compromised by its bulbous backside. We would continue to use the sedan instead. Standard items like heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings are included when you choose the Preferred trim level. Those who choose all-wheel drive will have to choose between the Turbo vehicles, which have that function as standard, or the Premium or Carbon Edition cars, which have it as an option.
Jalen Hickman