2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback

MSRP range: $22,650 - $33,900 ^{Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.}

2021 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback Exterior

+72

good

7.7/10

Edmunds Rating

The Mazda 3 hatchback has a unique proposition: available all-wheel drive paired with near-luxury appointments. Its strengths are not specs on paper — utility, fuel economy and drivability all fall around average — but in how it looks on the outside and feels on the inside. The 3 delivers style and refinement that make it more special day to day, but these attributes come with additional cost.

43 Owner Reviews

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Total MSRP	$23,645
Edmunds suggests you pay	$23,346

What Should I Pay

5 Packages

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2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Review

byBrent Romans^{Senior Editor, Written Content
Brent Romans has worked in the automotive industry since 1996. He has written or edited thousands of expert car reviews and road-tested hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.}

Pros

Premium interior design and materials
Sharp handling makes it fun to drive
Available all-wheel drive
Game-changing acceleration with turbocharged engine

Cons

Mediocre legroom in the back seat
Less cargo capacity than other compacts
Hatchback has poor rear visibility

What's new

Two new engines debut: a base 155-hp engine and top-trim turbocharged engine good for 250 hp
Part of the fourth Mazda 3 generation introduced for 2019

The 2021 Mazda 3 is one of the more entertaining small hatchbacks around. That's particularly true for this year since Mazda has introduced a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Borrowed from the Mazda CX-5 and CX-9 SUVs, this engine produces 227 hp and a stout 310 lb-ft of torque (250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane gasoline). It comes standard with all-wheel drive too.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$158/mo

3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus

$190/mo

Avg. Compact Car

Calculate my fuel costs

The turbocharged model will undoubtedly be the one to get if you want a speedy Mazda 3. But this isn't a revival of the Mazdaspeed 3. That cult classic, last seen in 2013, upgraded the standard 3 with a turbocharged engine, a sport-tuned suspension and a six-speed manual transmission. The new Mazda 3's turbocharged engine is automatic-only and doesn't come with any other performance upgrades, but its effortless thrust and impressive refinement are nice complements to the car's steady handling and premium design.

Still, athleticism and good looks only get you so far. Compared to the Honda Civic, Kia Forte and Subaru Impreza, the Mazda 3 comes up short when it comes to rear passenger and cargo space. But there's more than enough good here to make it worth checking out, especially if you enjoy a small car with extra oomph.

What's it like to live with?

In order to get the full ownership experience, we added a 2020 Mazda 3 sedan to the Edmunds long-term test fleet. Over the course of a year and 20,000 miles, we'll have a variety of opinions, updates and data. You can read all about it here.

Edmunds Expert Rating

good

7.7/10

Edmunds Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Rated for you by America’s best test team.

Performance

8.0/10

How does the 3 drive? Mazda vehicles tend to have pleasing driving dynamics, and that's true of the 3 hatchback. Above-average horsepower and acceleration make quick work of merges and on-ramps, while proper feedback from the brake pedal adds to a sense of control during typical driving and confidence during panic stops. The same goes for the steering and handling. Though not thrilling, both are pleasant in the daily grind.

At our test track, even the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder impressed with an 8.2-second sprint to 60 mph. But the optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is a whole new ballgame, whittling the 0-60 time way down to 6.1 seconds. It's a refined turbo too, with minimal lag and an abundance of readily available thrust. You don't need to floor it; just a gentle prod of the gas pedal makes quick work of passing or merging.

Comfort

7.5/10

How comfortable is the 3? The 3's interior is a generally pleasant place to occupy, with comfortable and supportive front seats that allow for all-day driving. The most prevalent sound is some engine noise during moderate and heavy acceleration, but it doesn't have an annoying drone. In fact, the turbocharged engine makes a rather endearing baritone thrum. Across the lineup, irksome road noise is minimized.

Owing to the 3's more driver-focused mission, the ride transmits most bumps and vibrations into the cabin, but the suspension controls these motions in a way that keeps passengers from complaining. When it comes to air conditioning, you can simply set it to auto and forget it.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

Save as much as $875 with Edmunds ^{Click on the model you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal.}

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback pricing

in Ashburn, VA

2.5 S

2.5L 4cyl 6A

$23,346

Select

2.5L 4cyl 6A

$24,779

Preferred

2.5L 4cyl 6A

$26,416

2023 MAZDA3 HATCHBACK

$23,550starting MSRP

See All Trims

MAZDAUSA.COM

MSRP excludes tax, title, license fees and $1,275 destination charge (Alaska $1,320). Vehicle shown may be priced higher. Actual dealer price will vary.

Premium

2.5L 4cyl 6A

$28,812

2.5 Turbo

2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A

$31,634

2.5 Turbo Premium Plus

2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A

$34,020

See all for sale

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? The 3 is a masterclass in simplicity and intuitiveness. The controls are easy to use and find, helping to keep your eyes on the road. We also like the driving position. Everything is within view, and almost all drivers should be able to find a setting that they prefer.

What brings the score down? Visibility and the rear seat. The rear window is small, and the rear side pillars create large blind spots. While proper mirror placement helps, backing out of a parking spot requires more awareness and concentration than it should. While we largely praise the front-seat experience, the back seat is tight. There's enough headroom, but legroom and shoulder room are below segment average. Plus, you have to duck when getting in or out.

Technology

7.5/10

How’s the tech? Support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay comes standard. Controlling the interface with a rotary dial instead of a touchscreen takes some getting used to, but it works after practice. Onboard navigation is a functional stand-alone option for those who live in areas with poor cellphone reception.

A suite of active safety equipment, which includes adaptive cruise and collision mitigation, comes standard. But some systems can be overzealous in their warnings, and the adaptive cruise has difficulty braking smoothly. Fortunately, you can adjust these systems individually.

Storage

7.0/10

How’s the storage? The cargo area is a touch smaller than average. Though the storage area is deep, there's no way to lower the back seats from the cargo area. We are more fond of the center storage options for the front occupants, including the long, wide tray that accommodates most personal effects and the small cubby to the left of the steering wheel. Rear passengers have few storage options, and the door pockets throughout are average size.

The easily accessible car seat anchors help when installing a car seat, though the somewhat smallish rear space means you'll likely have to move the front seat forward. Plus, the cargo privacy shield blocks the rear tethers — a minor annoyance.

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? All-wheel drive means a slightly smaller (by a half-gallon) fuel tank and an EPA-rated 27 mpg combined (24 city/32 highway). Front-wheel drive brings an estimate of 30 mpg combined with the automatic and 29 mpg combined with the six-speed manual. These figures are a bit below average when compared to similarly outfitted hatchbacks. But we achieved 32 mpg on our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route, so it's likely that you'll be able to match the EPA rating in real-world driving.

Value

7.5/10

Is the 3 a good value? Style is the Mazda 3's calling card, and it's delivered through high-quality materials that are tightly assembled. The only apparent wart is high-gloss black trim in the center console that attracts fingerprints and smudges. To be fair, this is a problem on many luxury cars too.

Fuel economy, warranty and ownership perks are about average. You're paying for the style more than anything else, though the optional turbo engine adds a big dollop of performance — and naturally costs even more. At the top trim level and outfitted with all-wheel drive, the 3 hatchback is more expensive than just about everything in the segment, especially if you go turbo. That brings luminaries like the Volkswagen GTI and even the Golf R into play, so it's worth doing some cross-shopping to make sure the Mazda wins in your book.

Wildcard

9.0/10

Though there's still some fun to be had from behind the wheel, the latest-generation 3 delivers a different kind of driving pleasure that's geared more toward refinement rather than thrills. The 3 can still make you smile on a mountain road, but it's more oriented to being pleasurable on the daily commute. Having said that, the turbocharged engine is a game-changer, enabling the unassuming 3 to keep up with many entry-level luxury cars.

The hatchback's expressive exterior styling is a standout, especially in a crowded parking lot. The look makes the 3 special. The interior design and materials back up this presence, creating an overall sense of luxury and style that's unmatched among competitive hatchbacks.

Which 3 does Edmunds recommend?

Stick with the Mazda 3 2.5 S. The new turbocharged engine is cool, but its premium pricing will make it a questionable expense for many drivers. You get more flexibility with choosing options on the 2.5 S, too. If you like having plenty of power underfoot, though, the turbo is definitely worth a test drive since it really changes the car's character.

Mazda 3 models

The 2021 Mazda 3 hatchback is available in two trim levels that coincide with the engine choice: Mazda 3 2.5 S and Mazda 2.5 Turbo. The 2.5 S trim is eligible for all-wheel drive, while the Turbo has it as standard equipment. Both of these models are also eligible for option packages.

The base Mazda 3 2.5 S has standard features that include::

2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (186 hp, 186 lb-ft)
Six-speed automatic transmission
16-inch alloy wheels
LED headlights
Rain-sensing wipers
60/40-split folding rear seats
Remote vehicle monitoring and control via a smartphone app
8.8-inch infotainment display
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Eight-speaker audio system

Every Mazda 3 also comes with:

Frontal collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
Lane keeping assist (steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
Automatic high beams
Drowsy driver monitor (issues an alert if sensors determine you are becoming fatigued)

From there, you can add three optional packages to the 2.5 S:

Select package

Simulated leather upholstery
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Keyless ignition and entry

Preferred package

Power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings
Heated front seats
Sunroof

Premium package

18-inch wheels
Upgraded exterior lighting with adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line onto the windshield)
Leather seats
Paddle shifters
Integrated navigation system
12-speaker Bose audio system
Optional six-speed manual transmission

At the top of the lineup is the Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo. It comes with contents of the 2.5 S' optional packages, minus the leather upholstery and navigation system. In addition, it comes with:

2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane gas)
Six-speed automatic transmission
All-wheel drive
18-inch black-painted wheels
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Heated steering wheel

The Premium Plus package is exclusive to the 2.5 Turbo and buffs up the 3 even more with:

Front and rear parking sensors
Auto-dimming driver-side mirror
Trunklid spoiler
Navigation system
Leather upholstery
Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Mazda 3 and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Universal garage door opener
Traffic Jam Assist (a partially automated hands-on driving system)
Rear automatic braking

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2021 Mazda 3.

Average user rating: 4.0 stars

43 total reviews

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5 star reviews: 58%

4 star reviews: 12%

3 star reviews: 7%

2 star reviews: 14%

1 star reviews: 9%

Most helpful consumer reviews

5/5 stars, You Don’t Want to Stop Driving It

Clayton R, 06/09/2021

2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

There’s one huge problem with this car— it is so fun that you don’t want to stop driving it! The 2.5 turbo is superb. It has plenty of power and torque but is also efficient. For the first few days, you’ll want to drive it like you stole it because it seriously takes corners like no other car I’ve driven and has acceleration and passing power like something out of a luxury car. The AWD … paired with the turbo really helps keep the car planted and under control when aggressively stepping down on the accelerator. While it’s very peppy, the engine remains very modest and quiet when you’re driving normal or idling. I will also add that it’s paired with a silky smooth transmission that shifts effortlessly. No CVT or DCT! Just a perfect transmission made directly by Mazda. The safety features on this car are also fantastic. The adaptive cruise control is very smooth and offers four different spacing options between you and the car in front of your. The lane keep assist is not very evasive in its steering or keeping you in the lane, which is great, and the blind spot monitor is extremely helpful given the huge blind spots in the hatchback. Those are the only safety systems I’ve tested so far, and they’ve excelled my expectations. Also, the safety systems link into the head up display, which is even more brilliant. The audible warnings associated with the systems sound great and don’t scare the heck of you when they go off. The infotainment system and interior components… WOW. Amazing. I love the fact that it doesn’t have a touchscreen, honestly. Mazda makes you use a rotary dial, with a cool clicking sound as you turn it, to control all aspects of the infotainment so that you keep your eyes peeled on the road. At first it thought that would’ve been an issue, but after using it, I wouldn’t want it any other way. Not only is it much easier than having to reach for the screen, but it keeps fingerprints off the screen, which are huge pet peeve of many. The infotainment system itself is very fast, has no lag navigating from menu to menu, and the graphics are super bright and crystal clear. When you use this, you know you’re in 2021. Next level technology. There is no wireless CarPlay, but with the center compartment having enough room to fit your phone and hide cords out of the way to keep a clean look, it doesn’t bother me one bit. In fact, it forces you to not look at your phone while driving, which I’m sure is what Mazda intended. The seats along with any place that’s in reach and meant to be touched regularly feel AMAZING. The arm rests in the center and on the door panels are like memory foam! Comfort you can literally see with your eyes. The knobs have great haptic feedback and clicking sounds that are satisfying if you’re weird like me. Everything feels very high quality and like something that will hold up beautifully for many years to come. Very little plastic pieces inside with the exception of the gear shift panel that will scratch if you’re not careful. The exterior on this car speaks for itself. My car has black paint with black rims. It looks stunning with the design of the body. The paint quality is great with the metallic flakes that flicker in the sunshine. I would recommend, as with any car, to get a paint protection film, because of how close the car is to the ground. You are very likely to get rock chips—huge ones if you like to drive fast like me! Overall, Mazda hit the ball out of the ballpark with the Mazda 3. I’ve read reviews where people complain of the high price point, but it’s worth every penny & you see why it’s more expensive than other rivals the moment you get behind the wheel and drive it. I’m not sure if I’ll want to leave the Mazda brand after driving this car, and I’ve driven MANY car brands. It’s that great of a car. Plus, you get a car that’s actually made in Japan and the Japanese are huge perfectionists when it comes to their work, which explains a lot in this car. If you’re on the fence, just do it. I promise you will not regret it.

5/5 stars, Awesome Hatchback

Rhyno, 02/10/2021

Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6M)

I test drove two different Mazda 3 Premium hatches before buying the second. The first one was the "soul red" color with black leather interior which was a beautiful paint job. The one that I purchased is "polymetal gray" and I ended up liking this color better, it looks sort of blue-gray on cloudy days and more gray-gray on sunny days. The interior is red leather which looks much more … like an "ox-blood" color in person than it does in pictures - absolutely gorgeous and a very premium look and feel. This car does drive very well overall and has a sporty feel to it without really being a sports car. The 18" wheels do look very nice especially in the gloss black color and I find it's contrast to both the Polymetal and Red colors to be pleasing to the eyes...however this does translate to some roughness on rougher roads...not a deal breaker for me though. I did not initially intend to get such a high trim level, but buying a car with a manual transmission was an important factor to me so I ended up with the premium trim. The MT is VERY smooth in my opinion and took very little time to get adjusted to since I have previous experience with manuals. The clutch is light and easy to push and the shifter is smooth. This is a very forgiving car for someone to learn to drive MT, especially with the hill-hold button. The features and tech in this car are fantastic and way more than I had ever intended to get. I find the heated seats and heads up display to be particularly useful. The infotainment system is a little cumbersome to get used to in regards to using the different menus but after getting the hang of it it's not so bad. The hand controls for the infotainment are really nice to use once getting accustomed to them and I find the location to be perfect for my hand in its resting place. You can tell that these cars really are designed around the DRIVER as everything is pretty intuitively placed. The backseat is definitely a little cramped but my wife and I do not have kids so this was not much of a concern for us. I have not yet had to load anything massive into the cargo area but am looking forward to testing out the space with the seats folded down. The appearance of this car is just stellar to me and looks much sleeker and sexier than most any small hatchback I have seen on the road... and I do not see many of these updated 3's on the road (especially in hatch form) so it is nice to not have the same box that everyone else has. The other cars I was considering before purchase was the Honda Civic Hatch and the Subaru Impreza Hatch. The Civic looks like a transformer to me (very angular) and the Subaru just didn't float my boat... kind of dull. As much as I would like to say it doesnt matter to me, the aesthetics of what I was going to spend my money on was pretty important to me. I want to smile and be excited when I look at my vehicle and this is definitely a much better looking vehicle than my aging 06' Ford Ranger lol. I bought my new car on January 16th 2021 at Flow Mazda of Greensboro NC which was a good experience overall. I only have about 600 miles on the car but 1st impressions are good and I am happy that I purchased this car. This is my first Mazda but it looks like it won't be my last as long as I continue to be happy with this purchase. My wife may end up in a CX-5 when she is ready to upgrade. -Rhyno (happy new Mazda Owner) Update 08/10/2021: The Mazda 3 Premium Hatchback with MT is still a joyous car to drive and I do not have any complaints about the vehicle. I only have about 4,800 miles on it after 8 months as I am babying it to preserve its glory lol... Very fun with the MT, takes off and shoots through traffic when I need it to, runs smooth as butter around town. I am glad I purchased this car and hope that it has much longevity over the course of my ownership. Thanks Mazda, keep up the good work! Update 02/11/2022: Just a little over a year after purchase and I still very much enjoy driving this car! It looks fantastic and I have honestly gotten countless compliments on its sexy appearance - definitely stands out as a looker compared to most other things I see on the road. The manual transmission is still fun and I am glad I went that route. The fuel mileage seems to have improved slightly over time... Not sure if this is due to just being more broken in or if it is just my improved smoothness with shifting since being used to it at this point. Wonderful car, please do not stop making these Mazda and consider bringing back the "Speed 3" so a version with turbo + MT can be obtained! I will probably be upgrading my exhaust/intake/tune once my factory warranty has expired :-P Update 08/18/2022: The car is still fantastic at 14,xxx miles, drives/handles/shifts/rides very nicely. The car does have some pretty bad blind spots but that is the tradeoff for such sexy styling!

2/5 stars, Very poor paint quality.

Fernando, 10/30/2021

Premium 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

With about 3500 miles and 1 year of ownership, my hood started to experience paint peeling from the rear edges of the hood (area closest to wipers). The car is parked in a heated garage year-round. Mazda has denied our warranty claims stating it is not a manufacturing defect, however, with just a little research you will see that Mazda uses a thin layer of water-based paint to cut costs …

2/5 stars, Beware of faulty parts!

Scott Zschappel, 02/16/2022

2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

I purchased the 2021 Mazda 3 turbo hatch in November and it has never been 100%. From the first week I had it the airbag light came on and I had it looked at by three different dealerships that have told me nothing is wrong. Finally found the problem almost four months later to be the airbag sensor in the drivers seat which happens to be backordered until the summer. The diagnosis itself …

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2021 Mazda 3 video

2021 Mazda 3 Turbo Review | Why It's Better Than a Mazdaspeed

[MUSIC PLAYING] SPEAKER: The most famous enthusiast-loved Mazda of all time has-- OK, so not the Miata. Forget the Miata. The next most famous enthusiast-loved-- OK, not the RX-7. Forget the RX-7. The third most famous enthusiast-loved Mazda has got to be the Mazdaspeed 3. It was an excellent hot hatch when it wasn't trying to torque steer you into a wall. And now Mazda has slapped a turbo badge on their current hatchback, the Mazda 3. They've called it the Mazda 3 Turbo. It's not a Mazdaspeed 3, they say. And I say that's a good thing, because it's better. Before we get into the details on this particular car, if you want to see more videos and car reviews like this, click the link below to subscribe. And for a cash offer on your car today, go to edmunds.com/sellmycar. The normal 3 is available with either 155 or 186 horsepower. But now Mazda has added a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, borrowing it from bigger Mazda vehicles like the CX-5. It puts out 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on 93 octane gas. If, like us, you're in a state with only 91 octane, you get 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That's still strong, but is it better than any Speed 3? In terms of price and performance, the Turbo 3 competes against vehicles like the Subaru WRX and the Volkswagen Golf GTI. It straddles a line though in between less expensive and slower vehicles like the Civic Sport, but it's not quite as fast as something like the Civic Type R. Thankfully, to offset the high price of the Turbo 3, it has got one of the nicest interiors in the class. It's extremely well built. It's almost minimalist on the dashboard. There are great buttons, lots of awesome materials in here. And it feels borderline luxury, which is why for the money I think it's a great competitor for vehicles like the Mercedes A220 or the Audi A3. Those are entry-level luxury vehicles that you're going to get less standard equipment on until you start adding up the options, but you're going to get a similar vibe on the interior. Really if you took the Mazda badges off, I'd think this was a luxury hatchback. So with all that torque and all-wheel drive, is the Mazda 3 Turbo faster? Well, compared to the standard Mazda 3, it blows the doors off, so no competition. And even the upgraded power train with 188, 186 horsepower is faster than that one. And compared to the old Speed 3, that's where things get closer. But this current version, the Turbo 3, still faster-- 0 to 60, quarter mile. It's faster off the line. And we have the added benefit of using all-wheel drive for not just launching in a street race or at the drag strip, which is the only place you should race, but you get all-weather capability too, which is great. And I think this 2.5-liter engine is actually a little bit underdeveloped. There's some potential that's waiting here. I would love to slap some bronze aftermarket wheels and some sticky tires on this car, and take it out to a track day. It seems like it would be a riot to drive really, really fast. Now, I've taken it around the Edmunds test track, and I've taken it to B roads that are really great to drive in my area. And I really love the way the steering and the handling feels. It's sharp. It's direct. It doesn't have a lot of body roll. But this Turbo 3 is a little bit more hardcore than the standard version. So does it lose any comfort? No. It's still just as refined, just as easy to drive as the standard 3. And you get a little bit of throaty turbo noise from under the hood. It really is a pleasure out on the road and a vehicle that you can live with easily on a daily basis that offers a lot more performance than the standard variable. Compared to the old Mazda 3, this one is so much easier to drive too. We looked at our test notes from the 2010 Mazda Speed 3, and our test driver had the same thing to say every time he took it out on track, which is that it was a nightmare to launch. You had to match the RPMs correctly and get the wheel spin just right. Otherwise it would bog down off the line. And really this one, you just press the throttle and go. I would really love to own one of these and modify it, make it my own, tint the windows, and put bronze aftermarket wheels and sticky tires on it, take it to the track and see what it's really like to drive at the limit. And there are few cars that I can say that about. At Edmunds we test and review hundreds of cars every year, so it's hard to find the cross axis of something that's attainable and desirable, but this Mazda 3 Turbo is definitely on that shortlist. So is the Mazda 3 Turbo the Mazda Speed 3 for 2021? Not really. But it's better than that. It's more refined. It's easier to drive. And it's grown up. It's matured with the segment around it. All the other compact sedans and hatchbacks are more grown up these days than they were a decade ago. So you want your Mazda 3 Turbo to be shoutier? Well, go out and buy a shouty exhaust. You want it to attract more attention? Well, then paint it a bright color. Put big wheels on it. Do body underglow. I'm here for all that stuff. But if the real reason you want a Mazdaspeed 3 is because you just like that emblem on the back, you can do what I did and go on eBay. For a cash offer on your car today, go to edmunds.com/sellmycar. For more information on the Mazda 3 Turbo and all its competitors, click the link in the description below. And if you like this video, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel. [MUSIC PLAYING]

2021 Mazda 3 Turbo Review | Why It's Better Than a Mazdaspeed

The Mazda 3 Turbo isn't a new Mazdaspeed 3, but Travis Langness argues that's a good thing.

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Features & Specs

Trim

Total MSRP: $23,645

MPG & Fuel: 26 City / 34 Hwy / 29 Combined; Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gal. capacity

Seating: 5 seats

Drivetrain: Type: front wheel drive; Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic

Engine: Inline 4 cylinder; Horsepower: 186 hp @ 6000 rpm; Torque: 186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Basic Warranty: 3 yr./ 36000 mi.

Dimensions: Length: 175.6 in. / Height: 56.7 in.; Overall Width without Mirrors: 70.7 in.; Curb Weight: 3092 lbs.; Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 20.1 cu.ft.

See all features & specs

2023 MAZDA3 HATCHBACK

At a Glance:

5 Packages
$23,550starting MSRP

Search InventoryMAZDAUSA.COM

MSRP excludes tax, title, license fees and $1,275 destination charge (Alaska $1,320). Vehicle shown may be priced higher. Actual dealer price will vary.

Safety

Our experts’ favorite 3 safety features:

Smart Brake Support: Warns if you are rapidly approaching a vehicle, pedestrian or bicyclist. Can apply the brakes to reduce the severity of a collision.
Mazda Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a driver-selected distance between the Mazda 3 and the car in front.
Lane Departure Warning System: Alerts the driver if the Mazda 3 begins wandering outside its lane.

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	5 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	10.1%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test	Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test	Good

Mazda 3 vs. the competition

2021 Mazda 3

2020 Honda Civic

Mazda 3 vs. Honda Civic

Both the Mazda and Honda offer a lot for the money, with strong performance and plenty of features. The Mazda 3 gets an edge for its premium interior but gets dinged for a comparable lack of rear legroom and small trunk. But we do prefer its technology and advanced safety features, which are more refined than the Civic's. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Honda Civic.

Compare Mazda 3 & Honda Civic features

Mazda 3 vs. Kia Forte

The Kia Forte is a great pick for value. You get a lot of standard features for the money, strong fuel economy and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. It also tends to drive rather blandly unless you opt for the GT model. For a more premium experience, go with the Mazda 3.

Compare Mazda 3 & Kia Forte features

Mazda 3 vs. Subaru Impreza

The Mazda 3 is one of the few sedans in the class that offer all-wheel drive. Subaru one-ups it by giving the Impreza standard AWD. That's one of the reasons why Subarus are popular in harsher climates. It also scores points in regard to comfort and interior space and with its comprehensive list of safety features. But the Mazda is more fun to drive and has a nicer interior. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Subaru Impreza.

Compare Mazda 3 & Subaru Impreza features

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FAQ

Is the Mazda 3 a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 3 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the 3 has 20.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mazda 3. Learn more

What's new in the 2021 Mazda 3?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Mazda 3:

Two new engines debut: a base 155-hp engine and top-trim turbocharged engine good for 250 hp
Part of the fourth Mazda 3 generation introduced for 2019

Learn more

Is the Mazda 3 reliable?

To determine whether the Mazda 3 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the 3. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the 3's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2021 Mazda 3 a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Mazda 3 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 3 and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 3 is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2021 Mazda 3?

The least-expensive 2021 Mazda 3 is the 2021 Mazda 3 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $22,650.

Other versions include:

2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $22,650
Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $23,850
Select 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $25,250
Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $25,500
Preferred 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $26,900
Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6M) which starts at $28,000
Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $28,000
Premium 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $29,400
2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $31,050
2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $33,900

Learn more

What are the different models of Mazda 3?

If you're interested in the Mazda 3, the next question is, which 3 model is right for you? 3 variants include 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Select 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), and Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A). For a full list of 3 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2021 Mazda 3

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Overview

The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback is offered in the following styles: 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A), 2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6M), Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Premium 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Preferred 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A), and Select 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A). Mazda 3 Hatchback models are available with a 2.5 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 227 hp, depending on engine type. The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic. The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.

What do people think of the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 3 Hatchback 4.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 3 Hatchback.

Pros

Premium interior design and materials
Sharp handling makes it fun to drive
Available all-wheel drive
Game-changing acceleration with turbocharged engine

Cons

Mediocre legroom in the back seat
Less cargo capacity than other compacts
Hatchback has poor rear visibility

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 3 Hatchback featuring deep dives into trim levels including 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, Select, 2.5 Turbo, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Read our full review of the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback here.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback?

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $23,645. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $299 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $299 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $23,346.

The average savings for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is 1.3% below the MSRP.

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24,845. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $66 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $66 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $24,779.

The average savings for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is 0.3% below the MSRP.

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $26,495. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $79 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $79 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $26,416.

The average savings for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is 0.3% below the MSRP.

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $28,995. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $183 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $183 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $28,812.

The average savings for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is 0.6% below the MSRP.

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $32,045. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $411 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $411 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $31,634.

The average savings for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 1.3% below the MSRP.

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $34,895. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $875 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $875 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $34,020.

The average savings for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 2.5% below the MSRP.

Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.

Which 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchbacks are available in my area?

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Listings and Inventory

Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback.

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback for sale near you.

Can't find a new 2021 Mazda 3 3 Hatchback you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Mazda for sale.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback and all available trim types: 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, Premium, Preferred, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.

What is the MPG of a 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback?

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded
26 MPG compined MPG,
23 city MPG/31 highway MPG

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded
29 MPG compined MPG,
26 city MPG/34 highway MPG

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded
26 MPG compined MPG,
23 city MPG/31 highway MPG

EPA Est. MPG	26
Transmission	6-speed shiftable automatic
Drive Train	all wheel drive
Displacement	2.5 L
Passenger Volume	112.8 cu.ft.

Wheelbase	107.3 in.
Length	175.6 in.
Width	N/A
Height	56.7 in.
Curb Weight	3383 lbs.

Should I lease or buy a 2021 Mazda 3?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Mazda lease specials

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Make sure you’re getting the best rate. Check Rates

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Review

What's it like to live with?

Performance

Comfort

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2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback pricing

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which 3 does Edmunds recommend?

Mazda 3 models

Trending topics in reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

2021 Mazda 3 video

2021 Mazda 3 Turbo Review | Why It's Better Than a Mazdaspeed

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Features & Specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite 3 safety features:

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

IIHS Rating

Mazda 3 vs. the competition

Mazda 3 vs. Honda Civic

Mazda 3 vs. Kia Forte

Mazda 3 vs. Subaru Impreza

People who viewed this also viewed

FAQ

Is the Mazda 3 a good car?

What's new in the 2021 Mazda 3?

Is the Mazda 3 reliable?

Is the 2021 Mazda 3 a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2021 Mazda 3?

What are the different models of Mazda 3?

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Overview

What do people think of the 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback?

Pros

Cons

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Our Review Process

What's a good price for a New 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback?

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Select 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

Which 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchbacks are available in my area?

Can't find a new 2021 Mazda 3 3 Hatchback you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Why trust Edmunds?

What is the MPG of a 2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback?

Should I lease or buy a 2021 Mazda 3?

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