2023 Mazda 3 is priced just like other compacts, aspiring to compete with more premium cars. And, yes it does, in many ways. This Mazda is available as either a sedan or a hatchback, and both are equally as good-looking and potent. When it comes to engine choices, it is offered in two four-cylinder engines, and this includes a punchy turbo. One can even have all-wheel drive, but that will make skipping the excellent six-speed manual. Other compact cars such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Jetta might seem more feasible or have more popularity than the Mazda, but the 3 is made for those consumers who value a thrilling driving experience and seek premium interior materials in their small car.
Contents
What’s New In 2023 Mazda 3?
The brand has dropped the 3’s base 2.0-Liter four-pot for the 2023 lineup. Its new entry-level engine is the 2.5-Liter four-cylinder that was offered as an upgrade last year. This gets a 5-hp bump to 191 horsepower. Cylinder deactivation has also been added to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder, helping it deliver more fuel-efficient EPA estimates of 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. The mid-range Carbon Edition model is now available with optional all-wheel drive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is now standard on all trims.
Engine & Performance
The Japanese Marque offers two different engines with the 3. Starting with a base 191-hp 2.5-Liter four-cylinder. This engine powers front-wheel drive or, on the Carbon Edition and Premium trims an all-wheel drive system. A 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-Liter is available, but only on the top-ranging trims. Users can get a six-speed manual if they stick with front-wheel drive. Opting for the all-wheel drive system pairs a six-speed automatic transmission.
While every 3 respond quickly to gas-pedal inputs, only the turbocharged engine makes the 3 impressively quick. Upon testing the turbocharged engine, recorded a brisk 5.6-second run to 60 mph. Both the hatchback and sedan feel balanced on straight and twisty roads and provide a disciplined ride. The new Mazda 3 is very much praised for retaining much of the engaging nature of the outgoing model. It has taut body control, natural-feeling steering, and a firm ride.
Fuel Economy
| 2023 Mazda 3 Mileage | City | Highway |
| 2.5L Sedan | 28 mpg | 37 mpg |
| Turbocharged 2.5L Hatchback | 23 mpg | 31 mpg |
The most fuel-efficient 3 is the sedan with the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which has an EPA rating of 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. The turbocharged hatchback model with all-wheel drive is the least fuel efficient, with ratings of 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The all-wheel-drive automatic-equipped sedan with the 2.5-liter is posting an outstanding 41 mpg on the highway.
Dimensions
| 2023 Mazda 3 Dimensions | |
| Length | 183.5 in |
| Width | 70.7 in |
| Height | 56.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 107.3 in |
| Cargo Volume | 13 ft3 |
| Airbags | 7 Airbags |
Mazda feasibly designed the 3’s cabin with premium and durable materials. Buyers can equip either body style with a slew of desirable features, but the best ones are available in the trim-level hierarchy. For instance, a head-up display, heated front seats, and leather upholstery are all reserved for the topmost trims.
Pricing
| 2023 Mazda 3 Pricing | Price (USD) |
| Base | $23,615 |
| Select | $25,015 |
| Preferred | $26,615 |
| Carbon Edition | $28,265 |
| Premium | $30,215 |
| Turbo | $33,515 |
| Turbo Premium Plus | $35,065 |
The Mazda 3 hatchback is tempting because of its unique and striking appearance, but the hatch’s bulbous rear end compromises visibility. Instead, we’d recommend sticking with the sedan. When you select the Preferred trim level, you get standard features such as heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings. Those who want all-wheel drive will need to go with either the Carbon Edition or Premium models.
Specifications & Top-Speed
| 2023 Mazda 3 Specifications | Specs |
| Engine | turbocharged inline-4 |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Horsepower | 250 hp |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.6 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 14.3 sec |
| 1/4 Mile | 14.1 sec |
| Top-Speed | 134 mph |
