The Mazda3 is a beloved compact car. It’s practical and versatile, with driving dynamics that make it feel special. The value equation is reason enough to love this car. In an age when the average new car costs about $50,000, the Mazda3 starts at about half that. The Mazda3 offers buyers plenty of choices to accommodate price, style, and driving preference. Here are our three favorite things about the 2026 Mazda3.
Two Body Styles
The Mazda3 is available as both a sedan and a hatchback. Pricing for the sedan starts at $25,885, and the hatchback starts at $26,885. The sedan is sleek and sophisticated. It measures about 15 feet in length and is ideal for individuals and small families. The hatchback measures 14.5 feet in length but has more cargo space: 20.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats, vs. the 13.2 cubic-foot trunk of the sedan. Folding the seats in the hatchback opens up 47.1 cubic feet. When choosing between the two, it might come down to appearances and whether your cargo-hauling needs.
Automatic or Manual Transmission
Only a couple of dozen new car models offer a manual transmission in 2026, and the Mazda3 hatchback is one of them. The 2.5 S Premium is the only trim level of the Mazda3 lineup equipped with the 6-speed manual. All other Mazda3s have a 6-speed automatic transmission. For those who crave more control and engagement, the manual transmission is an appealing and rare option.
Turbo Engine
Most Mazda3 trims have a 2.5-liter, 186-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, which is typical for this segment. However, the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim offers a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 250 hp. This turbo engine makes the Mazda3 one of the most powerful available in its class. The turbocharged edition takes a car that’s fun to drive and amps it up to the next level. It comes with a higher price tag, but since it’s the top-of-the-line trim, it also comes with added creature comforts, not to mention all-wheel drive, which is optional on other trims.
Read More on the 2026 Mazda3
Read our full review of the Mazda3, find this week’s find this week’s Fair Purchase Price, or see Mazda3 models for sale near you.
