Mazda has always flown a bit under the radar. The brand’s cars are always solid, fun to drive, and handsome. The Mazda3 is no different. Available in hatchback or sedan styles, this compact car offers a long list of safety equipment, plenty of options, excellent handling, and a luxurious and quiet cabin, all at an affordable price.
For 2021 Mazda has upped the game with the Mazda3. The updated model offers an option for more power coming from a 2.5-liter turbo engine that puts out a solid 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. This engine is available in both the hatchback or sedan and comes with all-wheel drive standard. Like most other Mazda3 models, it uses a 6-speed automatic transmission.
There’s also a new, base 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 155 horsepower and comes in front-drive. This engine is offered in the sedan only. Standard on the hatchback and available in the sedan is a 2.5-liter I4 (sans turbocharger) that makes 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque.
A wealth of choices
There a tremendous variety of trims to choose from on the Mazda3. To start, there’s the choice of a sleek sedan or practical hatchback. You can also choose (on all but the base versions) all-wheel drive over the standard front-wheel drive.
In sedan form, there are seven trims from which to choose: 2.0 Sedan, 2.5 S Sedan, Select, Preferred, Premium, 2.5 Turbo, and 2.5 Turbo Plus.
The base version or the 2.0 Sedan is the least-expensive new Mazda3, and it’s available in front-wheel-drive only. It comes with keyless entry, push-button start, automatic transmission, an infotainment system with an 8.8-inch screen, 8-speaker audio, two USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and rain-sensing wipers. Even this base sedan has adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. It starts at $20,650 plus a delivery fee of $995.
The 2.5 S Sedan also comes with FWD only. It has a larger and more powerful 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. The next trim level up is the Select. At this trim, you can choose between either 2.5-liter non-turbo and turbo engines, as well as front or all-wheel drive.
The 2.5 Turbo trim has AWD standard (no FWD option). These models, as you might expect, are loaded. In addition to a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, the 2.5 Turbo models boast a head-up display, power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and leatherette upholstery. Pricing starts at $30,050.
The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus tops the line. This trim includes Mazda’s navigation system and connected services. Pricing for this trim starts at $32,600.
We’d recommend opting for the Preferred trim for its balance of features and price. If you have the money and want more oomph, opt for the 2.5-Turbo.
Here’s the Complete Rundown on 2021 Mazda3 Trims and Prices:
2021 Mazda3 2.0: $20,650
- Sedan only
- Front-wheel drive
- 2.0-liter engine with 155 horsepower
- 8.8-inch Mazda Connect infotainment
- Push-button start
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Adaptive cruise control
2021 Mazda3 2.5S: $21,650
- Sedan or hatchback
- 2.5-liter engine with 186 horsepower
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
2021 Mazda3 Select: $22,850
- Sedan or hatchback
- 2.5-liter engine with 186 horsepower
- Available all-wheel drive
2021 Mazda3 Preferred: $24,500
- Sedan or hatchback
- 2.5-liter engine with 186 horsepower
- Available all-wheel drive
- Power moonroof
2021 Mazda3 Premium: $27,000
- Sedan or hatchback
- 2.5-liter engine with 186 horsepower
- Available all-wheel drive
- Navigation
- 12-speaker Bose audio
- SiriusXM satellite radio
2021 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo: $30,050
- Sedan or hatchback
- Turbo 2.5-liter engine with 250 horsepower
- Paddle shifters
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Head-up display
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated front seats
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Leatherette seating
2021 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus: $32,600
- Sedan or hatchback
- Turbo 2.5-liter engine with 250 horsepower
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Leather seating
- Navigation
- 360-degree camera
Ready to buy a 2021 Mazda3? Shop for one on sale now near you.
