- The biggest change for 2021 is the addition of a 2.5-liter turbo engine
- Body styles include a sedan and a hatchback
- Handling is superb and the Mazda3 is fun to drive
- The 2021 Mazda3 was awarded Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS
- Pricing starts at $20,650 | Price it your way
- On sale now | See Mazda3 models for sale near you
We’re big fans of the compact Mazda3, either in sedan or hatchback form, for its luxury trappings at a competitive price. It’s also very much a driver’s car, with superb handling and a choice of engines, including a 2.5-liter turbo good for 227 horsepower (or 250 horsepower when using 93-octane fuel).
Although it was recently redesigned for the 2019 model year, there are some fairly significant changes for 2021, including a new 2.0-liter base engine in the sedan and the addition of a 2.5-liter turbo, available in both the sedan and hatchback.
Passenger Room and Comfort
Despite being a compact car priced at just over $20,000, the 2021 Mazda 3 has a surprisingly stylish interior. Even the base model with cloth seats looks cool, and there are plenty of soft-touch surfaces throughout. Higher trims have synthetic leatherette, with the top trims getting actual leather.
The driver seat is snug but comfortable, although the rear-seat legroom is a bit lacking. Also, beware of the rather thick rear C-pillars, which limit visibility, especially in the hatchback.
Features and Tech
Even the base 2021 Mazda 3 comes with keyless entry, push-button start, and an 8.8-inch screen for infotainment with 8 speakers, two USB ports, and Bluetooth. It’s worth noting that Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility is not available in the base sedan, and requires an upgrade to the 2.5 S. Lower trims also do not have the option of all-wheel drive.
Higher trims get a power moonroof, navigation, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and satellite radio. The turbo boasts a head-up display (HUD) and paddle shifters. The top Turbo Premium Plus adds a 360-degree monitor.
Materials and Design
One thing we’ll certainly say about the 2021 Mazda3 is that it’s handsome, in either body style. Mazdas have a graceful look about them, with flowing lines and an inimitable style. While a bit taller than the sedan, the hatchback is 8 inches shorter in length.
Inside, the cabin look is clean and modern, with lots of soft-touch materials. Base models get cloth seats, while higher trims have leatherette or actual leather. Gauges are illuminated by a cool white light. A few premium paint colors are available that really make the Mazda3 pop: Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Machine Gray Metallic, and Snowflake White Pearl Mica.
Cargo Room and Flexibility
Typically one does not buy a compact sedan for the cargo space. It may not be surprising that the Mazda3 has only 13 cubic feet of trunk space, although the seats in both body styles fold and split 60/40 for longer items. The hatchback has a more useful 20 cubic feet in the load area.
Mazda offers a cargo mat to keep the trunk protected, and a net to keep items from sliding around.
More 2021 Mazda3
Build and price your own 2021 Mazda 3 to see this week’s Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own, and more, or see Mazda3 models for sale near you.
