2021 Mazda3: 4 Things We Like (and 4 We Don’t)

1. Strong Engine Choices

The Mazda 3 offers a choice of three engines. The base motor is a 155-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder, though its limited availability means just a few shoppers are likely to get it. One step above is a 186-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder that we’ve driven in past model years; it’s a capable, smooth-revving engine, though tall gearing from Mazda’s six-speed automatic limits some of its potential (a manual is also available). Among upper trim levels, Mazda’s newly available turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes 250 hp to deliver strong acceleration, especially when you’re already rolling and need to rapidly power past slower traffic. It doesn’t love to rev to redline, but a responsive accelerator pedal and 320 pounds-feet of torque give the Mazda3 Turbo lots of grunt even at low rpm.

2. Elegant Interior

If you covered up the Mazda badges inside, we think many people would step into the Mazda3 Turbo and assume they’re inside an entry-level luxury car. The Mazda3’s available leather upholstery feels plenty rich, with lots of soft-touch surfaces and a refined layout. 

1. Firm Ride

The sharp steering is a delight, but the Mazda3’s firm ride could make it hard to live with on a daily basis. It’s not going to rattle you to pieces, though the softer rides in rivals like the Nissan Sentra and most versions of the Toyota Corolla have been tuned for more mass-market appeal.

2. Snug Cabin 

The Mazda3 Turbo may leave some shoppers wanting for stretch-out space. This criticism isn’t confined (pun intended) to available legroom in the second row. The front seats feel narrow, and visibility out back — especially in the hatchback — is limited by large roof pillars and a tiny rear window.