There is a lot that’s charming about the Mazda 3. Whether you go with the hatchback or the sedan, this vehicle has a solid exterior body style and lots of promising features. Yet, before you make a purchase, you have to take a closer look at the vehicle’s specs.
What are the key features of the Mazda 3?
There are key features to know, such as:
- Ample driver assistance features
- 4 trim options to choose from
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine
- 186 horsepower engine
- Quick response
- Solid fuel economy
The Mazda 3 has some great starting points to consider. If you are buying it, you’ll want to have some additional information we’ll provide here. Let’s take a look at the 2020 model. You’ll also want to take a closer look at other model years and trim options over at Vehicle History.
Overview of the Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 is a solid part of this manufacturer’s lineup. It has been produced since 2003. It’s a compact vehicle available as a 5-door hatchback or a 4-door sedan. 2019 initiated the four generations of this vehicle. Some of the all-new features included SkyActiv technology, which helps to provide better speed control and the Spark-Controlled Compression Ignition System.
In 2019, it sold 50,741 vehicles in the U.S., making it one of the more popular Mazda vehicles. There are a few things that help to make this vehicle stand out. That includes the more sophisticated driving features as well as the interior refinement. It is most certainly not a high-performance vehicle. It does offer nice tech and infotainment options, which today’s driver wants.
The Mazda 3 has received plenty of awards and accolades over the years. That includes being ranted the 2020 World Car Design of the Year by the World Car Awards. It was also noted as a 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick for the 2020 model.
Performance Features and Specs of the Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 for model year 2020 offered four trim options. That includes the Base, Select, Preferred, and Premium models. Any of them are available as a sedan or hatchback. Pricing ranges from $22,445 at the Base model up to $27,420 for the Premium model. These are competitive in the vehicle’s overall classification.
The Mazda 3 features a 2.5L, 4-cylinder engine. It produces 186 horsepower. The hatchback offers a manual transmission. However, the sedans feature all-wheel drive and automatic transmissions. Front-wheel drive remains standard across the board.
A new option for the vehicle is the Skyactiv-X 4-cylinder engine. This engine provides compression-ignition technology. The goal is to save fuel while still providing drivers with the top performance they want behind the wheel. It does a good job overall. The vehicle drives well and offers a nice bit of pick-up-and-go, even with the smaller engine.
There are other engine types available depending on the trim option. The drivetrain for the Mazda 3 includes front-wheel drive as well as front-wheel drive with i-ACTIV AWS as an optional upgrade.
When it comes to fuel economy, the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine gets 30 combined city/highway miles per gallon. That’s 26 city and 35 highway miles per gallon, according to EPA estimates. For a sportier car, that’s a decent amount of fuel economy.
Also notable to most buyers is the five-star rating in safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives this vehicle a solid five — with no dips in safety ratings across the board. This, along with the vehicle’s onboard tech, can help anyone to feel safe behind the wheel.
Other Notable Features of the Mazda 3
Inside, the Mazda 3 has some nice features. The 2020 model offers a bright interior with a modern style. The vehicle’s interior elements seem to be of high quality, too. The higher trim packages do a very good job of offering premium materials.
The vehicle has ample safety features. This includes advanced dual front airbags, Dynamic Stability Control with Traction Control System, smart brake support, and lane departure warning. The vehicle also offers the Driver Attention Alert and High Beam Control features. Also, the Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go is a nice option for even the base model.
The interior offers dual-zone automatic climate control in the Select package and up. The Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start System is also on these trim options. Push-button start and electronic parking brake are as well.
Outside the vehicle, the Mazda 3 has LED lights throughout. These are auto on/off, of course. They trim packages do offer upgrades on the side mirrors. The base level has just folding power side mirrors. The Select package introduces integrated turn signals. The Preferred vehicle brings in memory positioning as well.
As for entertainment, Mazda has done a good job of providing driver’s with ample connectivity, including Bluetooth and 2 USB ports on the base model. Other models offer options like the Bose 12 speaker premium audio system and integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment center is an 8.8-inch center display with HD radio and voice command.
The Pros and Cons of the Mazda 3
As you look at the features and specs of the Mazda 3, it definitely sounds like a great car. Yet, you may want to take a closer look by seeing what actual owners have to say about it. Here are some pros and cons from Vehicle History to help you.
Pros:
- Smooth ride with ample support for riders
- Integrated technology is easy to use
- Good option for fuel economy for long rides
- Compact and easy to drive
Cons:
- Some problems with electronics reported
- Takes a bit to get up to 60 miles per hour
Should You Buy the Mazda 3?
When it comes to buying with confidence, information on these and other specs is essential. With a wide range of options to offer to you, the Mazda 3 is worth a closer look for those seeking a higher-end model vehicle with a competitive price (and loaded with features). Take a closer look at Vehicle History.
