We love the 2023 Mazda3 Hatchback as a compact car choice. Its upscale interior and excellent driving dynamics make it highly competitive with other compact cars such as the the Honda Civic, Volkswagen Jetta, and Hyundai Elantra — especially at a reasonable price. The Mazda3 also provides a true entry-level luxury car option, particularly with its higher trim levels and Turbo choices.
The Mazda3 hatchback offers a blend of style, performance, and practicality. This vehicle is designed to provide a comfortable driving experience with its refined interior and impressive handling capabilities. With the midsize 6 discontinued and the pivot to the SUV segment, the Mazda 3 is the brand’s only sedan left for sale in the U.S.
One of the most noticeable aspects of the Mazda3 hatchback is the sleek and modern design. The front grille is bold and distinctive, while the body lines flow smoothly to create an aerodynamic look. The car also features sleek LED lighting and a sporty stance that will surely turn heads on the road. The exterior for the Mazda3 will be available in the following colors; Snowflake White Pearl Mica, Machine Gray Metallic, Deep Crystal Blue Mica, Polymetal Gray Metallic, Sonic Silver Metallic, and Jet Black Mica and Soul Red Crystal Metallic.
Under the hood, the Mazda3 hatchback comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and responsive shifts. But if you want the Mazda3 to live up to its hot hatch looks you will need to step up to the turbocharged model.
The 2.5L 4-Cylinder Turbocharged engine injects this car with desperately needed zoom zoom and smartly bundled it with standard all-wheel drive, which is rare for the segment. Just Feed the Mazda3 with premium gas, and it’ll reward you with up to 250 horsepower and better yet, 320 pound-feet of torque.
Paddle shifters are included but do little to elevate the sporty experience in this hatch — a stick shift would certainly be nice but Mazda offers its six-speed manual on only one trim level: the naturally aspirated, front-wheel drive 2.5 S Premium.
The interior of the 2023 Mazda3 hatchback is just as impressive as the exterior. The car features a spacious and comfortable cabin with high-quality materials and a modern design. The front seats are well-bolstered and provide excellent support, while the rear seats offer questionable legroom and headroom for passengers.
When it comes to technology, the 2023 Mazda3 hatchback is well-equipped. The car features an infotainment system that is easy to use and intuitive. The system includes a large touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system. The car also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing drivers to easily connect their smartphones and access their favorite apps and music.
The Mazda3 hatchback offers a range of advanced safety features. The car comes standard with rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning..
Unlike some other compacts, the Mazda 3 is offered with FWD and AWD but did not include a stick shift option in the Turbo models. A six-speed would have moved it up a notch in my hotness factor. As for the downsides, they’re all space and utility related. Both the sedan and hatchback have small rear seats for the segment—you would think the hatchback would have more room but sadly it does not. Whether you’re commuting to work or taking a road trip, the Mazda3 hatchback is a car that will surely impress.
Overall, the Mazda3 hatchback is a great option for those looking for a compact car that offers a combination of style, performance, and practicality. With its refined interior, impressive handling, and advanced technology features, this car provides a driving experience that is both enjoyable and safe
A Turbo Hatchback (cheapest way to get the Turbo powertrain) starts at $33,515. Opt for the Turbo Sedan in its Premium Plus trim (the only way the Turbo Sedan comes) and the price is $35,065…just get the Hatch turbo!
Photos: Mazda
