Mazda is moving more upscale with all its models of cars and crossovers, and the 2021 Mazda3 is no different.
This compact sedan is one premium car when you hop inside. Soft leather covers the seats and premium materials abound throughout the cabin. While the Mazda3 feels and looks more upscale, it still has a sportier flair with paddle shifters behind the heated leather steering wheel. Large 8.8″ display uses a control wheel on the center tunnel behind the shifter that takes time to get used to.
The Mazda3 I drove came packing some extra power. The optional 2.5 Turbo engine really wakes up this compact sedan. With up to 250hp with premium fuel or 227hp on regular, the Mazda3 moves. The AWD and G-vectoring control make the handling top notch for a compact sedan. While a hoot on back roads, when it comes to the normal commute the Mazda3 now excels with very good manners.
The 2021 Mazda3 sedan has an athletic look for a compact sedan. LED lighting and a blacked-out grill work nicely with the Soul red paint. Black wheels, a small rear spoiler and side view mirrors give the small sedan a more upscale look compared to other cars in its class. Still the Mazda3 sedan seems more conservatively styled when you park it next to the Mazda3 hatchback version.
Cost: $32,450; as tested $33,990
MPG: 23 mpg city and 32mpg highway; I managed 26.2 mpg in 246 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: Traffic jam assist; smart brake support; lane departure warning system; lane-keep assist; Mazda radar cruise control with stop&go; high beam control; driver attention alert; blind spot monitoring system with rear cross traffic with braking; adaptive front lighting system; 360 degree view monitor; rear smart city brake support.
Options: $595 Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint
Things to know: The 2021 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo ups performance, makes for an-upscale, all around compact sedan.
Pros:
- Small sedan or hatchback with AWD
- New turbo engine makes for a sportier compact sedan
- Comfortable ride; handles well on back roads
Cons:
- Back seat leg room isn’t as generous as other compact sedans
- Gets pricey with the top-of-the-line 2.5 Turbo engine
- Manual transmission is no longer offered
