It's 10 grand less than it's european competition, far more reliable, far cheaper to fix. But the American upper crust ignores it, because it lacks the proper "badge?" God help us...
@@ntharting8959 I think Mazda will have a good year. The boat came in from japan and I picked up my CX-30 the next day. The dealership was an empty parking lot a month ago. Now its busier and I’m seeing Mazdas all over the place, some with the temporary licenses.
i had this red on my 2017 cx5 loved it but god it rock chipped so easily. Im glade i switched to White on my mazda3 turbo, plus you can get the red interior
Not everyone wants or needs a manual transmission.......sheesh. Why do people keep pushing the "you're an ---hole if you don't love a 6spd manual" agenda?
@@JulezWinnfield Not everybody wants or needs an automatic either. His comment wasn't pushing an agenda, it was displaying his desire to have a manual here. I am also like him with wanting a manual. I have been in contact with a Mazda salesperson for months waiting on a manual hatch to come in. Sales are down for manuals because they aren't available. I gave up and just got an auto from a different brand.
It does not need a touch screen. I've adapted to it within the first week. I got into a car without the control knob and missed it. You quickly figure out the muscle memory of the control system.
I mean, yes you can tell it’s not independent rear (I’ve spent a lot of time in a civic hatch and I’d say the civic handles bumps at high speed better), but the 3 is so balanced, it doesn’t matter to me
@@Nidnacron thanks for the reply...I want to test drive one soon, with the intention of using it as a 2nd car/daily commuter over very bumpy/pothole ridden roads of Houston. Is the EPA MPG accurate?
@@mezzb not trying to flex or be a dick but I drive a Porsche Cayman and this would be my 2nd commuter car so I don't think I would want to drive it hard/fast. This is not to say I don't enjoy a car having good handling and excellent reliability and efficiency, which is what I am really after (cross shopping corolla, Prius, civic, etc. Japanese 4 bangers with a hatchback preference)
About 6 years ago, a family friend of mine cross shopped one of these with a used 328i, so the comparison isn’t too far off. They ended up getting the BMW, but the fact they considered buying a brand new Mazda really says something about the brand.
@@mezzb Just upgrade these low rolling res touring tires to the same kind of much sportier and grippier as on 3 series and difference will be even smaller.... except you can buy 215 45 18s in performance tires or all 4 installed under 400usd , go do it on the bimmer for 400usd you will get one or two tires installed
I'm thinking about trading in a Giulia Ti on one. 40k less miles and a warranty for almost the same cost I'd get in trade in sounds like a good deal. Not gonna miss driving a car without a spare tire/lift on road trips, and AWD should help on winter trips to Colorado.
Mazda has been named the #1 brand for reliability for the last 3 years in a row according to consumer reports, becoming the first brand in over 30 years to take that #1 title from Toyota. So it's a safe, reliable, sporty, luxurious option for long term ownership.
@@mezzb man the new Mazda 3 is awesome, I traded my 2016 Audi A3 for the new Mazda 3 Turbo, no regrets whatsoever I think the Mazda is a better car. I mean yeah kinda unfair comparing a new Mazda to an older Audi but it just shows how good Mazda is these days.
I borrowed one of these from Seattle's University Mazda for an hour a couple months ago. Even around town, this thing was such a blast. Really great, responsive transmission. Plus a good horn, and a spare tire?! This thing has it all. Apart from what it doesn't. Still, at the top of my list for cars to consider once my TDI's warranty runs out in a few years. Also: I quite like the rotary knob controller. Once I got used to the control, I found it more comfortable than leaning into the screen.
Same here. I’ve owned 4 Honda cars and about 10 Honda motorcycles. I’m done with their cars; my 2006 Civic fell apart and that was my last Honda. Among many other items, I had to replace the driver side sun visor at least 5 times before the car hit 90k.
This is a better looking car than the intended rivals from BMW and Mercedes. Add the reliability and savings and this is a winner! l actually like the design of the 3 sedan over the hatch in this case.
The Mazda 3 hatch is nearly pornographic in that soul red paint. It's the only paint color I'd buy on any Mazda model. Excellent review and production quality as always, Tom!
Tom, when you say e-shifters are no fun, I believe you. The thought of you running after a rolling car yelling, "come back . . . you're not paid for", gives me the heebie-jeebies.
I LOVE the fact that Mazda stays with true automatic transmission. This made my friend's car buying so easy. All other options had CVT so went with cx5. And guess what, Mazda also had the best features with best looking interior even. Mazda offers alot for the money imo. No I don't work for Mazda or know anyone who works at Mazda.
I got one of them and the best part of it is that on the door sticker it says made in Japan , no other country makes better cars than Japan , I am so glad they stopped making them in Mexico with very low quality control
I think the soul red crystal is a great color, but this model looks better in that wet cement color, with the red leather interior. IMHO That makes the interior far less dark feeling.
I have the 2020 Hatch the non touch screen works perfect when using Mazda's own interface, I use Android auto and when u start using that you need a touch a screen It's just very difficult to use without it
I enjoyed the 2019 2.5 AWD Hatch until the motor was destroyed by a careless employee at supposed quick oil change while shopping at Costco. Once that issue was resolved, I stepped up a 2021 3 AWD Turbo and it’s definitely been fun, Winter in Canada was great with it, handled beautifully in some tough snow storms. I know not everyone loves the styling but I love the look and the fit & finish on the exterior is well done and the interior looks beautiful. Only a few minor issues with sensors needing replacement but other then that this is a fun car to drive and In my opinion looks real nice in the sun with great curves. Thanks for review.
Great review Tom! I Have a gen1 MS3 and a part of me feels grown enough to appreciate a car like this, though it is toned down. But it IS also quieter, and rides much better, despite the incremental loss in acceleration. I am still on the fence about the loss of a manual though!
@@kellyyyanneee +250lb and -20hp, plus older slushbox means it's not as close as you think. The 1st gen speed3 constantly tested at 5.2-5.5 to 60 and 13.8-14.2 in the 1/4mi. I haven't seen a new turbo go much below 6 seconds in testing yet, so definitely not as fast.
@@soldieroftafari many many reviewers who have tested both cars have already said the 2021 is slightly quicker. It’s because 320lbs torque vs. 280lbs torque. Sorry to burst that bubble. If you bought both brand new from the dealership stock for stock the 2021 would win. Now this could be the 2013 speed3 they’re talking about?
@@kellyyyanneee Sorry but a 14.5 isn't the same as a 14.0. 40ft/lbs of torque isn't making up for those other deficits listed. This motor is designed for low torque and still loses to a gen 1 just off of power to weight. It's just not happening.
No rear vents is strange - every 3 model (bar the base model) here in Aus has them. And a ‘premium’ maker would include them, as well as things like gas bonnet struts, 8 gears, a pano roof, folding mirrors, rear heated seats, two rear map pockets and so on. Otherwise, I love it!
As someone who switched from a wrx to a Mazda 3 turbo. It’s very unlikely I would have ever purchased a bmw/Mercedes in a similar (plus10k) price range. But I was also never ever going to buy a civic or golf. This has all the premium options I care about. I don’t however care about all the things you just mentioned (though caring about them is valid). I just wonder if there are enough people like me who A- don’t care about the prestige of the badge & B- love to drive awd hot hatches that have the vast majority of quality of life feature & outright quality of more expensive brands. I called my Mazda a 3Ok Mercedes when I bought it but two months in and it feels/drives like it’s a 30k Porsche.
I have a 2018 Mazda 6 GT with the same motor. It has been a great car and it returns on average 35 mpg on the highway. Of course it is only FWD, but I don't drive like an idiot. And yes, that average is with the car doing about 73mph. Great car. No doubt this 3 is fantastic too. One thing that makes me quite happy is that my 6 was about $8000.00 less than this Mazda 3. A steal, IMHO.
Love the reviews you do, always learn something too. Hope you get your hands on more Audis. Have you considered doing a shootout of the major music streaming platforms in terms of real sound quality?
@@BadDriversOfTheIllawarra because you are wrong and you should feel bad.. jk have the mica black with red interior.. I fall in love with the red every time I drive.
@@emiliotorres2988 It's barely a hybrid, just a mild hybrid. It does not have a substantial electric motor that actually saves much gas. The gas savings would be crazy if Mazda would pair Skyactiv X with a full hybrid system.
@@Unchainedmaple888 It's still a "hybrid" by technicality. Making the 3 a "full-hybrid" would not financially make sense with R&D for a Mazda that's trying to keep up with the bigger competitors (Civic & Corolla, which none of them have hybrid for the same reason). Not to mention, it'll drive the price up, making it a lot less appealing to buyers and how many years would it take to recuperate the extra money spent on getting a non-hybrid car VS a full hybrid. Easier said than done.
Thanks for this review. I sure wish Mazda would give you a plainer Select or Preferred model - all the car companies tend to give you the upmarket model so they can showcase the more expensive model. I came off a 1996 Camry to buy a 2010 Mazda 3 iTouring sedan which I'm looking to replace. The CX-30 seems to be more plentifully in stock than the Model 3's so I started looking at that. The biggest complaints I have about the 2010 have been the noise level, and the limited trunk space (espec. compared to the '96 Camry). Although I have a bike rack, I miss being able to throw a bike inside the car - easy to do with the Camry, just barely doable with the Mazda3. I was surprised to learn that the 2021 Model 3 hatch has more cubic feet of room with the back seats folded down than the CX-30 has. Makes it hard to understand why people demand SUVs or CUVs - just to sit higher on the road? My reluctance to a hatch used to be that you couldn't hide your gear in the trunk. The cargo covers they have nowadays seem to have addressed that.
Mazda going Upmarket. Translation: _"We're going to ignore our core customer base of buyers, and try to appeal to those in a higher tax bracket who have absolutely no interest in our offerings at all because we're not an established Luxury brand."_ Brilliant! Here's the thing, it doesn't matter that this Mazda 3 easily outperforms a front-wheel drive Audi A3 in terms of power, handling, and style. Doesn't matter that the 3 is literally a better compact car than the A3. Consumers who are seriously looking at an A3, or any Luxury brand compact car, are not even going to glance in Mazda's direction. Meanwhile loyal Mazda customers, such as myself, are going to either not be able to afford this Mazda 3. Or, will get angry at Mazda for being tossed aside; and will spend their hard-earned money elsewhere. While I love my V6 Mazda 6, I was looking to get into a slightly smaller vehicle that at least equals its performance. Well I'm not putting myself into debt simply to support a company that has decided that it's too good for me or my money. So, I'm seriously looking at a front-wheel drive KIA Forte GT, instead. But yeah.... Mazda should keep trying to cater to compact Luxury brand buyers who think that they're too good for a Mazda. Again, Brilliant!
Man, if someone would make this but give it some more bite in the styling (where the lines at?), a pano roof, more HP, manual transmission... That'd be my next car. Any suggestions, Tom?
The “styling” is NOT having the usual lines. A larger sunroof is not as rigid and they may be more prone to shatter. As far as more HP, they just went from 186 to 250 in a small front-wheel drive car. What more do you want?
Touch screens while driving don't make sense. Its dangerous and difficult to use because of movement of driving - either user directed movement or due to the road. The knob makes more sense, and the designs of apple car play and android auto need to adjust to this because touch screen in cars wont make sense until we have cars that drive themselves for a majority of the time.
Mr. Audet (CMO Mazda North America) needs to really consider bringing the Mazda6 wagon to US/CAN/MEX. Mazda could rule the long roof market and give ppl who want bigger than a '3, but don't want a CX-30,or CX-5. The' 6wagon is a fantastic looking car. But Mazda must learn from the past and make their wagon fast (2.3t only).
I'll assume the research has been done and all 10 people that want the wagon have a 50/50 chance of even considering it. Wagons don't sell in the US unless they're Subarus. This from a guy that's owned a half dozen.
@@DrivenCarReviews... I must be person number 11 because they haven't contacted me. 😁. We all know wagons aren't a status vehicle and all of the CUVs are marketed as "non-wagons"...but in the end, they are more wagon than their given credit for, but again, that's marketing. If Volvo can still sell sedans, wagons, and C/SUVs...Mazda clearly can too. They just need the right marketing (and speed...wagons have to be fast)
Honestly one massive pro to the Mazda. Even the base. It has no CVT. That alone puts it above many others. Even if the auto is a bit dated. But it’s reliable.
“It makes sense for the brand to be like the Jeffersons and move on up”🤪😂🤪 If anything we the fans of Norman Lear are truly appreciative of this sublime comparison!
Great review, Tom, thanks. As good as this car is and looks (though I still think the previous generation Mazda 3 looks better), I can't really stomach the price. Is the value really that far above a Toyota, let alone a Hyundai? I don't really think I could get that question out of my head, unless the test drive blew me away.
Great video. Thinking about swapping from my rowdy veloster n to this more tame and refined mazda 3. The ride quality on the veloster is so hard for a daily. How does this one stack up? And - how are the paddle shifts in the mazda? Are they quick or slow and delayed?
Would love to see you test drive a vehicle on the freeway so that you can honestly tell us how quiet it is at faster speed other than your friendly neighborhood.
Going to be test driving the Mazda 3 Turbo and the Kia K5 GT. Also thinking about waiting for the Corolla Hatch R or new Golf R. US market just needs more hatches.
Having owned three Mazdas since 2010 I can assure you that I do like the mechanical shift for the transmission however I currently own a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica and I have to tell you the reasons why you listed for why you like the mechanical shift is the same reasons why I like the rotary shift I know without a doubt without even looking at The rotary where Park is where reverse is and we're driving. The only drawback between the two is the rotary I wish would allow me to at least use paddle shifters or do manual shifting I do miss the manual shifting of an automatic transmission.
Tom, did you notice any poor handling from the rear torsion beam? Other reviewers state that the torsion beam rear is a deal breaker and seems a step backwards from Zoom Zoom
@@mezzb Have u ever rode in a veloster N? I have one now and it is STIFF! How does this compare? Ive watched about 12 reviews and all seem to state that the Mazda 3 turbo is the softest and most supple of all? My wife has a civic si and I love the way her car is damped. So much more pleasant than my veloster n. Trade-offs huh?!!! If the Mazda is like the civic then I’m all in!!
@@DrivenCarReviews well done video btw. I like the shots of the car in motion and how u narrate as well. I just think that's an outdated standard and a good Sales rep should be able to train shoppers to think differently. Does it have anything to do quality in reality? Maybe like u say, perceived quality.
Hi. Can you use a higher octane fuel than what is recommended by Mazda on a 2020 Mazda 3? I was told by the dealership to stick to 91 octane. Nothing more. But i see on your video that you have 2 different power outputs depending on what fuel you use. Thanks
Nice reviews Tom but I'm still waiting to see you reviewing the Mercedes benz c class 2021 model n bmw 3 series as well as Audi 3 series the 2021 model pleeeeasee
I think Mazda doesn’t think of this as primarily a “family” vehicle. Sure, it’ll work for parents and two kids, but I don’t think that’s the concept. No, this was meant for single people and couples who just want to be able to throw things in the back seat and occasionally carry stuff. (And yeah, have a third or fourth passenger once in a blue moon, but not very often. That’s why no amenities in the back seat.) In other words, this is for someone… like me! 😊
It's a shame Mazda not allowing EU buyers to have this beauty. I really wanted to buy a new Mazda 3 because of how the interior looks and feels but sadly, the 2.0 180HP configuration is the best you can get in the EU and to be honest it is quite boring to drive that one.
@@DrivenCarReviews Vw would allow tunes on there early Jetta’s and GTI’s and Ford on the RS’s and not void the warranty but you had to get the tune through the dealership.
A really nice car! But I agree that the initial point of contact with the car - the doors - sound really cheap, something that I am always reminded of every time I get in or out of my daughter’s 2020 sedan Premium. So I think that premium car buyers who consider this car might be turned off by that.
I get some Volvo P1800ES vibes with those rear quarter panels... Not a bad thing. But, they should have better glass area in the back, like the P1880ES, instead of the upswept rear windows and tiny back hatch window.
Yes sir I bought one June 29. I learned because I accidentally switched the speedo to KPH- I can verify you push a black needle/pin in the gauge cluster and switch to and from! Hope this helps.
Interesting that you mentioned a lack of a automatic stop/start system on this car. Seems like one or two other models recently also didn’t have those Tom. Have you asked why that may be? And this has high pressure direct injection, a turbo and EGR. All items that can cause headaches way down the road at 100,000+ miles. Just sayin.
@@rightlanehog3151 there is no such a model here, but as a market is way more sophisticated than the US. You can get pretty much whatever car you want. From Chinese brands to Ferraris, Rolls et al
It's 10 grand less than it's european competition, far more reliable, far cheaper to fix. But the American upper crust ignores it, because it lacks the proper "badge?" God help us...
I traded my A3 in for a M3 Turbo PP HB in December. I couldn't be happier....
@@ntharting8959 I think Mazda will have a good year. The boat came in from japan and I picked up my CX-30 the next day. The dealership was an empty parking lot a month ago. Now its busier and I’m seeing Mazdas all over the place, some with the temporary licenses.
@@ntharting8959 Gillette M3 Turbo?
Mazda really has the best red paint in the business
Yes, but aside from the red, a very limited paint palate for all their North American offerings
@@ElijahsAba True. Imagine a Turbo 3 exclusive yellow paint option?
i had this red on my 2017 cx5 loved it but god it rock chipped so easily. Im glade i switched to White on my mazda3 turbo, plus you can get the red interior
"Virgos can get well-organized"
Finally, a car reviewer who really understands me
I’m not a Virgo but definitely appreciated thjs
I enjoyed my time with the Mazda 3 turbo. Looks incredible! Drives great! Manual trans would make it nearly perfect.
Good review by yourself too!
Not everyone wants or needs a manual transmission.......sheesh. Why do people keep pushing the "you're an ---hole if you don't love a 6spd manual" agenda?
*BOOM! What a sexy little thing!
Didn’t know you also like this channel. He’s pretty legit.
@@JulezWinnfield Not everybody wants or needs an automatic either. His comment wasn't pushing an agenda, it was displaying his desire to have a manual here. I am also like him with wanting a manual. I have been in contact with a Mazda salesperson for months waiting on a manual hatch to come in. Sales are down for manuals because they aren't available. I gave up and just got an auto from a different brand.
It does not need a touch screen. I've adapted to it within the first week. I got into a car without the control knob and missed it. You quickly figure out the muscle memory of the control system.
I remember seeing this model in person, on stage at my last car show. As you mentioned, the color is very nice.
I drive the manual hatch (non-turbo) of the new 3, you really can’t go wrong with these cars. Great review Tom!
How about the torsion beam rear suspension?
I mean, yes you can tell it’s not independent rear (I’ve spent a lot of time in a civic hatch and I’d say the civic handles bumps at high speed better), but the 3 is so balanced, it doesn’t matter to me
@@Nidnacron thanks for the reply...I want to test drive one soon, with the intention of using it as a 2nd car/daily commuter over very bumpy/pothole ridden roads of Houston. Is the EPA MPG accurate?
@@ormand3000 id say so, I get 36 mpg easily, granted I do a fair bit of highway (more than half of my driving)
@@mezzb not trying to flex or be a dick but I drive a Porsche Cayman and this would be my 2nd commuter car so I don't think I would want to drive it hard/fast. This is not to say I don't enjoy a car having good handling and excellent reliability and efficiency, which is what I am really after (cross shopping corolla, Prius, civic, etc. Japanese 4 bangers with a hatchback preference)
About 6 years ago, a family friend of mine cross shopped one of these with a used 328i, so the comparison isn’t too far off. They ended up getting the BMW, but the fact they considered buying a brand new Mazda really says something about the brand.
@@mezzb Just upgrade these low rolling res touring tires to the same kind of much sportier and grippier as on 3 series and difference will be even smaller.... except you can buy 215 45 18s in performance tires or all 4 installed under 400usd , go do it on the bimmer for 400usd you will get one or two tires installed
I'm thinking about trading in a Giulia Ti on one. 40k less miles and a warranty for almost the same cost I'd get in trade in sounds like a good deal. Not gonna miss driving a car without a spare tire/lift on road trips, and AWD should help on winter trips to Colorado.
Mazda has been named the #1 brand for reliability for the last 3 years in a row according to consumer reports, becoming the first brand in over 30 years to take that #1 title from Toyota.
So it's a safe, reliable, sporty, luxurious option for long term ownership.
@@mezzb man the new Mazda 3 is awesome, I traded my 2016 Audi A3 for the new Mazda 3 Turbo, no regrets whatsoever I think the Mazda is a better car. I mean yeah kinda unfair comparing a new Mazda to an older Audi but it just shows how good Mazda is these days.
Mazda 3 is a great choice
I borrowed one of these from Seattle's University Mazda for an hour a couple months ago. Even around town, this thing was such a blast. Really great, responsive transmission. Plus a good horn, and a spare tire?! This thing has it all. Apart from what it doesn't. Still, at the top of my list for cars to consider once my TDI's warranty runs out in a few years. Also: I quite like the rotary knob controller. Once I got used to the control, I found it more comfortable than leaning into the screen.
@Ed Findlay I just got CX-30, had to get use to it. It’s safer, I can’t go back to touch screen
Yes the instalean!
Bought one last week, exceeds my expectations daily. It's just a great car, period.
Is it still
Extremely popular in Canada!
🇨🇦🇺🇲🇨🇦🇺🇲🇨🇦
Just bought a 2018 mazda3 hatch. I’m a believer in this brand. If I had twice as much money I’d have gotten this one. 😅
The comments on this particular video are really awesome. Great work and dialogue between multiple posters. Love this channel!
True. I kind of take pride in the fact that the folks here are awesome. I've only had to delete abusive posts a coupe times in the last few years.
Always enjoy your reviews. Thanks Tom.
Won’t miss what you don’t have - a very good point.
I’m always so happy when Minnesota gets a shout out, hello from Minneapolis!
Yikes! Keep your doors locked these next few weeks.
"Humans have a hard time re-orienting themselves once a perception has been solidified."
Damn, that's a poignant statement.
I hope people buy this so I can buy it used in like 10 years LOL
Maybe I'll sell you mine in 10 years :)
Even just a couple years when people return their leases. We just got a lease return 2018 CX5 for lots less than new with just 12k miles. 👍🏻
I got you homie unless they come out with a higher performance hatch with a faster trans then I’m trading in.
in 10 years the inviros wont let you buy a gas car, only eletric.
Got my sedan premium plus turbo brand new for 14k under sticker with trade and incentives so I can't complain.
I am done with Honda
Mazda here I come
We did that years back. Good move.
Same here. I’ve owned 4 Honda cars and about 10 Honda motorcycles. I’m done with their cars; my 2006 Civic fell apart and that was my last Honda. Among many other items, I had to replace the driver side sun visor at least 5 times before the car hit 90k.
Louis Lopez I feel you on the sun visors I just gave up and put two thumb tacs
I've been done with Honda ever since they introduced their questionable 1.5T
@@Gonzol7 thanks 👍
This is a better looking car than the intended rivals from BMW and Mercedes. Add the reliability and savings and this is a winner! l actually like the design of the 3 sedan over the hatch in this case.
The Mazda 3 hatch is nearly pornographic in that soul red paint. It's the only paint color I'd buy on any Mazda model. Excellent review and production quality as always, Tom!
If I remember correctly the screen used to be touch sensitive on older models but only when the car was stopped.
People always say Mazda’s are good but I rarely see any of the new ones I actually like them 😔😊
@@mezzb I’m debating between this or the Civic
@@miguelircontar Mazda is better. Quicker, better built and more reliable.
I own one, and while I agree with your assessment, it puts a smile on my face every time I drive/look at it.
Tom, when you say e-shifters are no fun, I believe you. The thought of you running after a rolling car yelling, "come back . . . you're not paid for", gives me the heebie-jeebies.
:-)
With you on the tangible,feel,of,a,mechanical shifter..Another Tuesday with Tom..thank you..👍👍
I LOVE the fact that Mazda stays with true automatic transmission. This made my friend's car buying so easy. All other options had CVT so went with cx5. And guess what, Mazda also had the best features with best looking interior even. Mazda offers alot for the money imo. No I don't work for Mazda or know anyone who works at Mazda.
Center knobs and buttons save lives, touch screens don´t. Well done Mazda!
U speak well and clearly, informative review
Best review of the Mazda3 I've seen yet!
Thanks for showing us it has a spare wheel in the boot, a rare thing these days.
I got one of them and the best part of it is that on the door sticker it says made in Japan , no other country makes better cars than Japan , I am so glad they stopped making them in Mexico with very low quality control
Another great review, Tom. I concur on the claustrophobic rear window & blind spots in the hatch. I bought the turbo sedan.
Hi Tom, I am picking up a subtle vibe that suggests you have some doubts Mazda's transition from cheap and cheerful to Premium Lite® may not succeed.
I think the soul red crystal is a great color, but this model looks better in that wet cement color, with the red leather interior. IMHO That makes the interior far less dark feeling.
I've been liking Mazda's design direction for a few years now.
I have the 2020 Hatch the non touch screen works perfect when using Mazda's own interface, I use Android auto and when u start using that you need a touch a screen It's just very difficult to use without it
I enjoyed the 2019 2.5 AWD Hatch until the motor was destroyed by a careless employee at supposed quick oil change while shopping at Costco.
Once that issue was resolved, I stepped up a 2021 3 AWD Turbo and it’s definitely been fun, Winter in Canada was great with it, handled beautifully in some tough snow storms. I know not everyone loves the styling but I love the look and the fit & finish on the exterior is well done and the interior looks beautiful.
Only a few minor issues with sensors needing replacement but other then that this is a fun car to drive and In my opinion looks real nice in the sun with great curves.
Thanks for review.
Great review Tom! I Have a gen1 MS3 and a part of me feels grown enough to appreciate a car like this, though it is toned down. But it IS also quieter, and rides much better, despite the incremental loss in acceleration. I am still on the fence about the loss of a manual though!
I think many reviewers who have tested both have said this one is either a match or faster then the last speed3.
@@kellyyyanneee +250lb and -20hp, plus older slushbox means it's not as close as you think. The 1st gen speed3 constantly tested at 5.2-5.5 to 60 and 13.8-14.2 in the 1/4mi. I haven't seen a new turbo go much below 6 seconds in testing yet, so definitely not as fast.
@@soldieroftafari many many reviewers who have tested both cars have already said the 2021 is slightly quicker. It’s because 320lbs torque vs. 280lbs torque. Sorry to burst that bubble. If you bought both brand new from the dealership stock for stock the 2021 would win. Now this could be the 2013 speed3 they’re talking about?
@@kellyyyanneee Sorry but a 14.5 isn't the same as a 14.0. 40ft/lbs of torque isn't making up for those other deficits listed. This motor is designed for low torque and still loses to a gen 1 just off of power to weight. It's just not happening.
No rear vents is strange - every 3 model (bar the base model) here in Aus has them. And a ‘premium’ maker would include them, as well as things like gas bonnet struts, 8 gears, a pano roof, folding mirrors, rear heated seats, two rear map pockets and so on. Otherwise, I love it!
As someone who switched from a wrx to a Mazda 3 turbo. It’s very unlikely I would have ever purchased a bmw/Mercedes in a similar (plus10k) price range. But I was also never ever going to buy a civic or golf. This has all the premium options I care about. I don’t however care about all the things you just mentioned (though caring about them is valid). I just wonder if there are enough people like me who A- don’t care about the prestige of the badge & B- love to drive awd hot hatches that have the vast majority of quality of life feature & outright quality of more expensive brands.
I called my Mazda a 3Ok Mercedes when I bought it but two months in and it feels/drives like it’s a 30k Porsche.
I have a 2018 Mazda 6 GT with the same motor. It has been a great car and it returns on average 35 mpg on the highway. Of course it is only FWD, but I don't drive like an idiot. And yes, that average is with the car doing about 73mph. Great car. No doubt this 3 is fantastic too. One thing that makes me quite happy is that my 6 was about $8000.00 less than this Mazda 3. A steal, IMHO.
Love the reviews you do, always learn something too. Hope you get your hands on more Audis. Have you considered doing a shootout of the major music streaming platforms in terms of real sound quality?
I wish the red leather interior was also available with the Soul Red paint.
I have no idea why they'd deny people that. Its the option I want too
A saddle or baseball glove brown would be nice too...
@@K03sport Yes, that'd be lovely
@@BadDriversOfTheIllawarra because you are wrong and you should feel bad.. jk have the mica black with red interior.. I fall in love with the red every time I drive.
Call me crazy but I think Mazda should give hybrid powertrains
Doesn’t need it. That’s What SkyActive is for
They do in Europe. (Skyactiv-X)
@@emiliotorres2988 It's barely a hybrid, just a mild hybrid. It does not have a substantial electric motor that actually saves much gas. The gas savings would be crazy if Mazda would pair Skyactiv X with a full hybrid system.
@@Unchainedmaple888 It's still a "hybrid" by technicality. Making the 3 a "full-hybrid" would not financially make sense with R&D for a Mazda that's trying to keep up with the bigger competitors (Civic & Corolla, which none of them have hybrid for the same reason).
Not to mention, it'll drive the price up, making it a lot less appealing to buyers and how many years would it take to recuperate the extra money spent on getting a non-hybrid car VS a full hybrid. Easier said than done.
Mazda entered into a partnership with Toyota last year so that Mazda could get access to hybrid technology for their future vehicles.
I am buying one of these as my first car as a working adult. Definitely excited!
I'm very happy with my turbo 2021
Thanks for this review. I sure wish Mazda would give you a plainer Select or Preferred model - all the car companies tend to give you the upmarket model so they can showcase the more expensive model. I came off a 1996 Camry to buy a 2010 Mazda 3 iTouring sedan which I'm looking to replace. The CX-30 seems to be more plentifully in stock than the Model 3's so I started looking at that. The biggest complaints I have about the 2010 have been the noise level, and the limited trunk space (espec. compared to the '96 Camry). Although I have a bike rack, I miss being able to throw a bike inside the car - easy to do with the Camry, just barely doable with the Mazda3. I was surprised to learn that the 2021 Model 3 hatch has more cubic feet of room with the back seats folded down than the CX-30 has. Makes it hard to understand why people demand SUVs or CUVs - just to sit higher on the road? My reluctance to a hatch used to be that you couldn't hide your gear in the trunk. The cargo covers they have nowadays seem to have addressed that.
Mazda is now an alternative to Lexus/Acura more than BMW/Audi.
I decided to buy the 2.0 naturally aspirated version of this car at the end of the year
Mazda going Upmarket. Translation: _"We're going to ignore our core customer base of buyers, and try to appeal to those in a higher tax bracket who have absolutely no interest in our offerings at all because we're not an established Luxury brand."_
Brilliant! Here's the thing, it doesn't matter that this Mazda 3 easily outperforms a front-wheel drive Audi A3 in terms of power, handling, and style. Doesn't matter that the 3 is literally a better compact car than the A3. Consumers who are seriously looking at an A3, or any Luxury brand compact car, are not even going to glance in Mazda's direction. Meanwhile loyal Mazda customers, such as myself, are going to either not be able to afford this Mazda 3. Or, will get angry at Mazda for being tossed aside; and will spend their hard-earned money elsewhere. While I love my V6 Mazda 6, I was looking to get into a slightly smaller vehicle that at least equals its performance. Well I'm not putting myself into debt simply to support a company that has decided that it's too good for me or my money.
So, I'm seriously looking at a front-wheel drive KIA Forte GT, instead. But yeah.... Mazda should keep trying to cater to compact Luxury brand buyers who think that they're too good for a Mazda. Again, Brilliant!
Maybe you should find ways to make more money instead of blaming Mazda for your frail earnings?
My dad and I just bought my mom a brand new Mazda3 Hatchback non turbo on 5/18 so I wonder how much faster the turbo will be!
Still got my 2020 and loving it 😂..
Man, if someone would make this but give it some more bite in the styling (where the lines at?), a pano roof, more HP, manual transmission... That'd be my next car. Any suggestions, Tom?
Only to not hold your breath Eric.
... Golf R wagon...oh, wait, not in this country. 😔 2012 Saab 9-3 Aero wagon perhaps...
@@DrivenCarReviews 😭😭😭
@@K03sport I currently have a 2011 CRZ and honestly nothing out there is cooler.
The “styling” is NOT having the usual lines. A larger sunroof is not as rigid and they may be more prone to shatter. As far as more HP, they just went from 186 to 250 in a small front-wheel drive car. What more do you want?
I had a 1997 Protege and love it. I can barely fit inside this Mazda3....no sale. And it weighs nearly 1000 pounds more than the Protege.
And it lacks IRS like my cheap 323.
If Apple CarPlay is in the vehicle, are any map pockets necessary anymore?
Maybe they're just pockets now...
That’s where I stick the first aid and ice scrapers
Touch screens while driving don't make sense. Its dangerous and difficult to use because of movement of driving - either user directed movement or due to the road. The knob makes more sense, and the designs of apple car play and android auto need to adjust to this because touch screen in cars wont make sense until we have cars that drive themselves for a majority of the time.
I wonder if Tom had to buy another house to store all that bath tissue. 😉
Late to this but the 24+ now have a touch screen when in apple car play or android auto. Also a 10.25 screen vs the 8.
Mazda is the best
Maybe it's just the lighting, but man, @8:35, that fuel door really sticks out like a wart. No matter, thanks Tom as always!
Mostly lighting and angle but the large C pillar doesn’t help.
Mr. Audet (CMO Mazda North America) needs to really consider bringing the Mazda6 wagon to US/CAN/MEX. Mazda could rule the long roof market and give ppl who want bigger than a '3, but don't want a CX-30,or CX-5. The' 6wagon is a fantastic looking car. But Mazda must learn from the past and make their wagon fast (2.3t only).
I'll assume the research has been done and all 10 people that want the wagon have a 50/50 chance of even considering it. Wagons don't sell in the US unless they're Subarus. This from a guy that's owned a half dozen.
@@DrivenCarReviews Well Tom, Since Subaru and Mazda come under Toyota's corporate influence these days, they could sell the Mazda wagon as a Subaru.
@@DrivenCarReviews... I must be person number 11 because they haven't contacted me. 😁. We all know wagons aren't a status vehicle and all of the CUVs are marketed as "non-wagons"...but in the end, they are more wagon than their given credit for, but again, that's marketing. If Volvo can still sell sedans, wagons, and C/SUVs...Mazda clearly can too. They just need the right marketing (and speed...wagons have to be fast)
1:52 omg that rear door close sound is terrible! Like something out of the 1980s
Honestly one massive pro to the Mazda. Even the base. It has no CVT. That alone puts it above many others. Even if the auto is a bit dated. But it’s reliable.
“It makes sense for the brand to be like the Jeffersons and move on up”🤪😂🤪
If anything we the fans of Norman Lear are truly appreciative of this sublime comparison!
Didn't he donate a lot of money for the Northwestern University media department?
I have driven mazda forever there is nothing better you drive anything else you want to come back to the mazda 3 guaranteed
Do you just return all those bundles of TP after filming? I would.
Check out all his reviews, and yes, he does return them. The Costco knows him.
Great review!
Great review, Tom, thanks. As good as this car is and looks (though I still think the previous generation Mazda 3 looks better), I can't really stomach the price. Is the value really that far above a Toyota, let alone a Hyundai? I don't really think I could get that question out of my head, unless the test drive blew me away.
Great video. Thinking about swapping from my rowdy veloster n to this more tame and refined mazda 3. The ride quality on the veloster is so hard for a daily. How does this one stack up? And - how are the paddle shifts in the mazda? Are they quick or slow and delayed?
Would love to see you test drive a vehicle on the freeway so that you can honestly tell us how quiet it is at faster speed other than your friendly neighborhood.
Going to be test driving the Mazda 3 Turbo and the Kia K5 GT. Also thinking about waiting for the Corolla Hatch R or new Golf R. US market just needs more hatches.
I really like this car's looks.
I can see myself only owning Mazda's for the foreseeable future.
We have had only Mazdas now for a decade--wonderful.
Having owned three Mazdas since 2010 I can assure you that I do like the mechanical shift for the transmission however I currently own a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica and I have to tell you the reasons why you listed for why you like the mechanical shift is the same reasons why I like the rotary shift I know without a doubt without even looking at The rotary where Park is where reverse is and we're driving. The only drawback between the two is the rotary I wish would allow me to at least use paddle shifters or do manual shifting I do miss the manual shifting of an automatic transmission.
Tom, did you notice any poor handling from the rear torsion beam? Other reviewers state that the torsion beam rear is a deal breaker and seems a step backwards from Zoom Zoom
The MX-3 must be rolling in its grave. For that matter, the cheapest 323 had IRS as well.
The AWD makes it unnoticeable until you push this car really really hard.
@@mezzb Have u ever rode in a veloster N? I have one now and it is STIFF! How does this compare? Ive watched about 12 reviews and all seem to state that the Mazda 3 turbo is the softest and most supple of all?
My wife has a civic si and I love the way her car is damped. So much more pleasant than my veloster n. Trade-offs huh?!!! If the Mazda is like the civic then I’m all in!!
This is as close were getting to speed3. Enjoy it.
Why do people complain about door sound when this is a 5 star rated vehicle? My point is the sound has nothing to do with quality.
Perception is everything on the dealer lot
@@DrivenCarReviews well done video btw. I like the shots of the car in motion and how u narrate as well. I just think that's an outdated standard and a good Sales rep should be able to train shoppers to think differently. Does it have anything to do quality in reality? Maybe like u say, perceived quality.
Hi. Can you use a higher octane fuel than what is recommended by Mazda on a 2020 Mazda 3? I was told by the dealership to stick to 91 octane. Nothing more. But i see on your video that you have 2 different power outputs depending on what fuel you use. Thanks
Nice reviews Tom but I'm still waiting to see you reviewing the Mercedes benz c class 2021 model n bmw 3 series as well as Audi 3 series the 2021 model pleeeeasee
Shocked it doesn’t have rear seat air vents
I think Mazda doesn’t think of this as primarily a “family” vehicle. Sure, it’ll work for parents and two kids, but I don’t think that’s the concept. No, this was meant for single people and couples who just want to be able to throw things in the back seat and occasionally carry stuff. (And yeah, have a third or fourth passenger once in a blue moon, but not very often. That’s why no amenities in the back seat.) In other words, this is for someone… like me! 😊
Beautiful car but that “Turbo” badging seem at 0:34 is SOO crooked and poorly placed. 🤮
If it comes in a manual I’ll definitely get it.
It's a shame Mazda not allowing EU buyers to have this beauty. I really wanted to buy a new Mazda 3 because of how the interior looks and feels but sadly, the 2.0 180HP configuration is the best you can get in the EU and to be honest it is quite boring to drive that one.
So… the gorgeous Soul Red Metallic, or the Polymetal Grey Metallic with red leather interior??
The red is amazing. But the interior is what you see the most of. Probably just made the decision harder, huh?
As a family man, I need vents, and USB port(s) in the rear. As a car enthusiast, I need at least a DCT.
What a beautiful car that is!
So any possible tunes on the market yet that don't void the warranty?
I would think that any re-chipping would void a warranty.
@@DrivenCarReviews Vw would allow tunes on there early Jetta’s and GTI’s and Ford on the RS’s and not void the warranty but you had to get the tune through the dealership.
@@clandfaf Like Volvo and Polestar. I'm not familiar with Mazda's efforts, if any.
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👍👍 great video. My vintage Mazda has bad torque steer also. I think I need a new cv axel.
A really nice car! But I agree that the initial point of contact with the car - the doors - sound really cheap, something that I am always reminded of every time I get in or out of my daughter’s 2020 sedan Premium. So I think that premium car buyers who consider this car might be turned off by that.
Car looks beautiful
I get some Volvo P1800ES vibes with those rear quarter panels... Not a bad thing. But, they should have better glass area in the back, like the P1880ES, instead of the upswept rear windows and tiny back hatch window.
Is it available in stick. I have trouble with auto transmissions. Can you switch the speedo to kph, as well?
I don't have the car so you'd have to ask an owner about the switch between KPH and MPH. No stick. None planned.
Yes sir I bought one June 29. I learned because I accidentally switched the speedo to KPH- I can verify you push a black needle/pin in the gauge cluster and switch to and from! Hope this helps.
I would definitely look at this before an Acura; not sure about BMW.
Hey Tom, please review the new Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition.
Interesting that you mentioned a lack of a automatic stop/start system on this car. Seems like one or two other models recently also didn’t have those Tom. Have you asked why that may be? And this has high pressure direct injection, a turbo and EGR. All items that can cause headaches way down the road at 100,000+ miles. Just sayin.
Hood prop rods are a pet peeve. More gears doesn’t equal a better transmission.
Well this definitely looks classier than a Type R.
Had to watch it twice...I was thinking it was Mr Trump 🤣🤣
Here in Chile the distributor managed to position the brand as semi luxury. Certainly what they charge for regular services is premium
If I was car shopping in Chile I would buy a Toyota Prado Sumo.
@@rightlanehog3151 there is no such a model here, but as a market is way more sophisticated than the US. You can get pretty much whatever car you want. From Chinese brands to Ferraris, Rolls et al
@@cvillalobos27 My mistake, the model I am referring to is the Land Cruiser Prado 3D TX-L . In other places the 3 door Prado is called a Sumo.
@@rightlanehog3151 I would have to agree
Yes a real shifter!