I LOVE the Mazda3's design. It's so clean, and reminds me of the first Acura TSX. My concern in our test drive was that it was far too tight inside (for me) and the twist beam suspension wasn't up to multi-link standards on normal roads and highways. If Mazda could translate this design to a new Mazda6 (slightly shorter lengthwise than the last one), make the interior spacious, give it a great hybrid drivetrain and multi-link rear with the e-AWD rear axel.... i'd fall all over myself to get to the dealer even if it was $45k.
Kirk, thanks for showing the sedan some love. Most reviewers typically review the hatchback. I'm on my 2nd gen 4 sedan and it's a great daily driver. Reliable, good gas milage, and good performance. My biggest gripe is the small fuel tank. 12.7 (for AWD models) gallons is on the smaller side.
Smaller fuel tank means it’s cheap on your wallet when filling up. I wish my 2020 Corolla LE had a smaller tank than its current 13.2 which is still pretty good when filing up especially with todays gas prices
It's a nice car but $37k is pushing it! I'm glad I picked up a '23 AWD Premium sedan with the naturally aspirated engine, because in '24 you can no longer get all the goodies (Head Up Display, Bose audio, etc.) without going for the turbo. And with a 12.7 gal fuel tank, I think the 191 hp 2.5 provides a good balance between power and fuel economy. I'm easily able to beat the 35 mpg EPA highway estimate, sometimes hitting 40 mpg under ideal highway conditions.
City mpg is pretty brutal. My 12-14 mile weekly grocery/shopping run in a small city I can squeeze 24mpg in the summer if I miss traffic and restrain myself. 20-22 in winter as it desperately tries to warm itself up. But I was easily able to swing a 37mpg avg in my turbo hatchback on a 750 mile road trip going the speed limit to SL+5-7mph. And that was including a half hour of back-roads bombing when I got to my destination state looking for a way around brutal midday traffic on the main expressway. Actually letting it eat in the back roads was probably just as efficient. A 55mph expressway shouldn't have stoplights every quarter mile, people will just go 35 and hit every single red light.
I might be biased because I own one (a 2019 non-turbo Premium model Sedan in Mazda’s Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint) but let me just say, it is by far the best car I’ve ever owned so far. Does it have problems, of course it does.. every car/ brand/ model/ year/ etc. does. Their paint is beautiful but fairly thin, they have rattles on the inside which are annoying, the plastic covering the instrument cluster is horrendous.. like I mean the worst in the industry because if you even look at it wrong it’ll scratch to hell and back, it has virtually unusable rear leg space unless your no taller than 5’5. The way Mazda thinks about their cars and their customers is unmatched by so many other brands though, even premium brands! The way the car drives and moves, the performance of the engine, the technology they give you for the price, the reliability of Honda and Toyota, is so insane that I’m surprised they aren’t more popular imo. They’re expensive but you get your moneys worth for sure and it’s sad that they always get compared to a Civic or a Corolla when that’s not what they’re comparable to. This has leather in every touch point where those two cars would have plastic, auto-leveling head lights, full led head lights AND taillights, led interior lighting, heads up display, heated steering wheel, 360 camera, memory seating, a freaking spare tire!!!, two different engines, offers AWD, DOES NOT USE CVTs WHATSOEVER contrary to what he said in the video, offers sedan or hatchback, almost everything is customizable down to how loud you want the turn signal to be, free 3 years of mobile app connected services with remote start, premium Bose audio system and YES, I KNOW, Bose is not technically considered “premium” but my god do they give above and beyond for this car. They have an entire video on how they designed the audio system to be centered around not just the driver but for everyone in the car. The way they place the speakers, subwoofer, tweeters, etc. and the soundddd that it gives off is incredible for this class and price point!!! Overall, I think this is one of the best cars you could ever own and far more superior to a Civic or Corolla and the reliability alone should attract people away from BMW/ Mercedes/ Audi. I highly recommend one or to consider one!!
Its still the most attractive sedan in its class inside and out. Needs a hybrid and hopefully a sport trim or trims with miata like manual option like si type r golf jetta gli gti r gr corolla wrx Elantra n not for sales but zoom zoom reputation which will in turn help sales of the non sport models. Torsen beam has got to go now.
@@alvinsimba734 not at all it's main competition at that price point are independent rear suspension. They obviously chose to put a class leading interior in place of the zoom zoom independent rear they used to have like the civic and others still have. It was a huge mistake. It would have been better to add $500 or so to the cost and keep its handling ride on bumps uneven surfaces corners competitive with the best in its class. This also be why they chose to not have a proper sports specific version of their cars like their competition
The torsion beam is my biggest grievance. I have a 2012 Mazda 3 with 240,000 miles and I dare say it handles better at higher speeds, and handles my rough Chicago roads in the city better. I had a 2024 Mazda 3 non turbo rental and it was exponentially better than my 2012 except for the spirited driivng handling and potholes. I did some spirited driving on expressway ramps and it was very unstable compared to my 2012 with independent rear suspension.
I find the turbo has enough power to send to the rear to actually push the car and reduce understeer compared to my old 2011. But I also can't embrace liftoff oversteer like I did in my old one (quite fun). And you're spot on: I never got to test my 2011, but this hitting a daily triple (closed course in MX) feels floaty that high up. It's not a drag racer anyway, so it's a moot point . but I would hesitate to turn it into a track car. Fairly fun on twisty mountain roads tho.
@@markcoopers1930 as long as those roads are smooth. Which would be a track only. They say the torsion beam is hardly noticable... But then there are exceptions such as on public roads (imperfect roads). At the end of the day no matter what you modify it's a torsion beam at the end of the day, not an independent rear suspension which is superior in comparison for compliance and handling. Don't get me wrong. Getting into and experiencing a 2024 vs. 2012 fwd 3 is like a Porsche to a Chevette. It's a great car just like Kris said.... For daily driving. Just don't push it or expect more from it than what it is.
@@chicagomike9778I mean I live in New England, our "newly repaved" roads look like gravel pits, come with gaps in the fresh pavement as a feature and form potholes 1.5" deep after the third rain, and they leave manhole covers recessed 2" below the road surface. Obviously I'm dodging the bad parts of the road all the time, but that's an unconscious instinct living up here. The only time in memory where I've felt the torsion beam show itself is hitting a severe bump mid-corner. Definitely noticable and not handled as well as multi-link would. Would rather not have felt it but the traction system adjusting where it was sending power kept it neutral. But I'm always pushing it when I get to corners without fear, and it's usually enjoyable.
A $100 strut brace helps the heavier front nose of the turbo models and $100 of brake pads fix the spongy brake feeling. One could also get one trim down from this, still get the turbo with minimum de-contenting and save a good $3k+
I'm not happy with the stock tires or rotors either, but a full swap of tires, pads, and rotors is a lot of money to replace before the OEM set wears out. So I'm slowly ticking down the miles waiting patiently. And you're right. The carbon turbo is about as discounted as the base turbo HB was discounted to the P+ HB back in 2022. Before they got rid of the base turbo
@@markcoopers1930 Yes, the downside is only one color now in the non-Plus now... I know people call it the "base" too, that was what I had but it is literally a "Premium" just not in name so Mazda could try to imply that the jump to the Plus is bigger than it is... But hey, seriously, unless you are literally tracking, just getting the PowerStop Z23 pads helps with mushy pedal, which is the worst part about the brakes.
@@curtbernardo more reliable, less money on gas and maintenance. I don't think you get much added performance between the two as well. Plus in order to get the added HP you need to use premium fuel
GR corolla is far more expensive than a mazda3 turbo. In Canada its 9,000$ more for the GR corolla and that's without the markups. In reality GR corolla would be 15,000$ more because it gets marked up a lot and that's a big difference so I would not compare them at all in terms of pricing.
Also the GR Corolla's big weakness is that it still has a basic Corolla Interior with some tweaks. Every review of it finds that to be a big weakness for the price. Mazda is going to give you a MUCH better interior.
@@danieljones8706It's really a question of wether or not you want a real sports car or just a luxury feeling sleeper car that's far less sporty but still fun.
@@mofayer Mazdas auto up shift before the redline, furthermore when going through corners it would be a bit annoying to have it up shift automatically when you don’t want it to.
Kirk, You really opened up my eyes with this review. I would never have thought to compare a Mazda 3 with a GR Corolla but at this elevated price they MUST be compared. The GR Corolla wins every time. 🥳🥳🥳I will credit Mazda for a offering a NA 2.5 engine in the lower trims. Toyota ought to do the same for mid-level Corollas as it might actually improve fuel economy as well as performance.
That's only the beginning. We've had our Mazda's built with... extras! Mostly, inside the engine compartment. Our specs.... 415 on the torque, 455 on the horse! Cost us 39,900... Delivered! There's nothing on the road, IMO, that looks, nor certainly performs like this does. Most importantly... Looks completely box stock! Manufacturers, for the money, will build you anything! Nice vid!
It's not a switchbacks champion. But with the Turbo, it is really a fun car, with all the power the non-boy racer crowd like me will ever need. It still is eminently classy and the interior is still quite striking for people getting in it for the first time. In the more basic turbo level, it really is a good value. I'm actually recommending the more basic Turbo to one of my immediate family. 👍
That's wild. I was looking for those in 2022 and they were so rare that they were marked up well above the turbo, and when not marked up they had waiting lists months to a year long at each dealership
@@markcoopers1930 I'm thinking there's not much incentives that Mazda is giving its dealers to discount them more other than the low APR promos; with that in mind, I've even followed the Forte GT manuals, and they are becoming lot rot as well at Kia too. This is sad too because the regular Civic will lose the manual as well, with the only two keeping it being the CTR & Si
I have a 2020 Mazda 3 Premium with 20k miles on it and simply can’t part with it. On one had its great they have changed virtually nothing on it but was hoping for a new front/rear fascia by now. I still holding out hope that a all new 3 comes out of left field in the next year or so but in reality Mazda has confirmed nothing about a new 3 anytime soon. I would like to think all of us owners could petition them and tell them we need another. There isn’t really much else in this class that can hold a candle to it imo.
I remember your video in the snow in Nebraska. It's the first video I ever watched on this channel. I remember you complaining about how it handled the potholes. I was car shopping at the time and the Mazda 3 was at the top of my shopping list. But they discontinued it in Jamaica and as a result, I went with the 11th gen Civic instead. 2 1/2 years later I'm still loving my choice. This would've been an awesome car though. But I do think it's becoming a little long in the tooth now. It's still relevant in 2024 but I think the look needs an update now. I wouldn't want to be buying one now and it looks just as they did 5 years ago. But Mazda is notorious for that. Just look at the Mazda 6. Funnily enough, we still get the 6 here but the 3 was replaced with the CX30.
Generations of cars are lasting far longer than they used to. Six years for a compact sedan is actually not that long for a generation and it has already had a mid cycle refresh.
@@gabrieliacoboni6951 The mid cycle refresh only addressed the tech and safety features though. We're six years on and nothing has been said about a redesign so that means someone will be buying a car in the seventh year that looks just like the first year of this generation. Can't speak for anyone else but I'd feel like I might as well have bought a used refresh with low miles for less money.
@@justincredible1990 They also slightly tweaked the exterior with grille and taillights. Additionally, as with all models, the trim level has changed from year to year. It's your money, do what you want with it. But 7 years for a generation of a vehicle is actually average. Further, most changes to commuter cars, even in a full refresh, are minimal at best (ie. recycle same drive train, same engine specs and so on). Doesn't mean much honestly. If you can live without the features in newer cars absolutely go used. I'd recommend it.
I did not like the brakes on Mazda 3 and CX 30 when i test drove, which put me off big time. Did not liek the bite and takes probably a little to get used to, tested from 2022 model and 2023
Hi Kirk, what would you say about the awd system on this one? Compared to Acura/Honda and other Japanese like Toyota/Lexus and Infiniti/Nissan. Great video, thanks!
Cool review. For any “all-new” model I hope they can carve out some more interior space in the back and add some better AC and USB attention also to the rear. I think that and making it less claustrophobic, especially in the hatch, would go a long way to making it more competitive to the Civic.
People are so weird about vents in the back. THEY ARE THERE. They are under the front seats, juat like they jave been on vehicles for the last 50+ years.
I rented a car like in the video (NA engine) recently and I did enjoy driving it. However, the 6-speed auto is really feeling dated in 2024. If it had an 8-speed, it would make for a better driving experience.
I don't need a glass roof. Mazda does have sweet interiors I just wish the color was lighter so I can see the luxury materials. Potholes will destroy those 18 inch rims.
Mazda is working on in-house hybrid possibly with skyactivX technology, but unclear if it will ever come to Mazda 3. It is said that CX lineup should have it.
@@robertwilliam9558 Agreed. They seem to be focused on lots of things at once and mainly on refining their current technology, which is holding them back (ehem...rotary).
Don’t understand why the synthetic sound is sooo much louder than the sound of what a normal gas car would produce. Might as well just add a sound that mimics a regular car and conform that way. The RAV4 Hybrid is guilty of this as well.
had one..terrible quality issues all within 2 years of ownership...water pump in the engine completely failed, key fob also failed. The torsion beam is also trash with the suspension..had 2 flat tires going over potholes going
I think is funny, the US may be one of a few countries where you can get the manual version only with Premiun. Anywhere else in the world, manual is the base model and auto is premiun
I think the HP is actually 256 on premium. Also, the is not really competing with the GR. The GR fits more in with the WRX, STI and Elantra N. Super cool to see Mazda introduce the Carbon trim which is definitely more affordable for the turbo. Buyers in this range are still price sensitive. I have owned all versions of the drive train of the 3 since 2012 and feel the standard NA is more than enough power, especially with the way they have the engine tuned.
@@itsquiwi8780I have 360 camera in my wife’s cx9 which really needs it. I do t miss it in my 6 and mine doesn’t have all wheel drive but I don’t need it :) I’m in CarPlay 100% so I don’t care about the Mazda system. It is a few seconds slower to connect wirelessly but I don’t mind.
@@ZACH_95_yes my 6 doesn’t have all wheel drive but I don’t need it. The independent suspension is a must for me after driving all these torsion beam cars. I do get it the 3 is cool but I’m not even tempted :)
The 330 would rund circles in terms of performance, has more luxury, and independent rear suspension, 50/50 weight distribution, a transmission that is quite possible the best on the market (ZF 8 speed), options that you can't even get on a Mazda, more utility, and significantly better acceleration.
Exterior and interior dimensions are near identical. The 330i's trunk is significantly bigger, but the same size if comparing the 330e. Wheelbase of the 3 series is longer Premium plus Mazda3 is significantly cheaper and better equipped than a base 330i Xdrive, WAY cheaper if the premium package is added to the bmw to get the heated seats, steering wheel, and HUD that the Mazda3 has (38k vs 50k after destination). But the Mazda3 can shave another 4k off the price with the turbo carbon edition. And of course the option for a hatchback. But the Mazda has less exterior and interior design options (and allowed combinations), slightly less efficient. Knowing BMW's magic transmission tricks even though the BMW is 350lbs heavier it's quicker from a dig. Not to mention the BMW is RWD bias vs Mazdas' FWD bias, and could be had in pure RWD for a bit extra sportiness. Mazda3 wins for value but if sporty driving is the goal betting that the Mazda3 will get a better autocross lap time is a good way to lose some dough. That said I still wouldn't even come close to trading in my turbo 3 HB for the BMW if they offered an even trade.
@@markcoopers1930 Unless you are upgrading the suspension and brakes, the Mazda isn't doing well on any autocross track. The 330 with the M Sport package is more than good enough out of the box. The 330 will trap 10 mph higher so it would roast the Mazda on a roll as well. Heck, a GTI beats it on a roll.
Given Mazda's smaller footprint compared to rivals, my hot take is they should just pull back and reassess their compact product range, and turn the 3 into a single product: a liftback sedan with a big cargo gate to give it a practical use case, and just axe the hatchback. They want to be a premium brand, so they should target rivals like the Acura Integra, and copy as many of those features as possible while playing to their strengths that Honda might overlook or de-emphasize, like torque, AWD, etc. I don't say this as a hater (I'm a multi-Mazda owner) and I love the hatch design, but it is not a hot seller. Buyers preferring practicality generally just opt for the CX models over the hatchback, and Mazda has never been in the kind of business position where they can cater to every taste because they're so small. Just make the 3 into a single (practical) product and it would get a lot more attention.
mazda want too much money to bolt on a turbo. you can save a a pile of cash by going naturally aspirated. the 2.5L is not some tiny engine that absolutely needs a turbo some of the other low displacement engines in cars that are around the mazda 3 price range may need a turbo but 2.5L is big enough to go without a turbo
Then buy the one without Turbo? There is also more involved then bolting on a turbo and you can get one trim down from the Plus, with only minimum less content, for only like $3k more then the NA.
@@DanielBrownOre it's a cool car and the turbo model will embarrass other compact cars, but at this price I would stretch for the base model of the new CX-70
I used to be a loyal mazda buyer. I bought one with that stupid rotary knob and hated it so bad I had to get rid of the car. Since then I have been a Subaru buyer. 3 in a row now. I have zero interest in buying from Mazda again until they get rid of the horrendous system.
At that price, it would be better to get the new Camry instead (even though it's more of a family/older person's car). Alternatively, one could buy a fully loaded Civic Si, or Civic Sport Touring and pocket $6,000 in savings. If you want a Mazda 3 with the turbocharged engine and AWD, go for the Carbon Turbo trim.
This is too expensive for that it is.. the corolla is also like 10k less expensive soo I’d hope this has an advantage. But you can get a top end mid sized for the price of this soo I don’t see the point of this. Base models of this would give its competitors a run for its money.
Mazda's have always had weird throttle and terrible brakes. They need more gripping power. They require more effort than I like for stopping. Honda makes the best effortless brakes. They should spend more money on improving their brakes to fit their high-end interiors.
The Corolla is for value shoppers. The Civic is probably the Mazda3's main competition in that there's a few trim and engine options available across the Civic lineup (Sport Touring, Si, but not so much the TypeR). Mazda is trying to be more premium than sporty and avoid the comparison... but these are the waters the 3 is swimming in at this price point. My real question about the Mazda3's future is what will happen when the Civic hybrid begins filling dealer lots. Mazda will need a hybrid powertrain option going forward for the 3 and, god willing, a new Mazda6.
@@chrissetina1107 They'd be smart to introduce a hybrid into the 3 but may not due to price and their clientele. I think a hybrid makes sense but the main competitors like the Corolla are woefully underpowered and honestly drive quite differently (synthetically). Like you, I do wonder how the Civic will impact them though keep in mind the Civic won't have AWD even as an option. Mazda might be happy to keep the 3 as is and accept it is a niche market but one they can maintain sales margins in.
@@chrissetina1107 it's not like people are saying I was going ro buy an A4 or 3 series, but instead I bought a Mazda 3.. they're not compelling enough for that role.
@@TalismanPHX Very much so ... Front end & rear of most ALL Mazda's are bland/generic ... Interiors are ok, but certainly room for improvements ... Mazda's make for a good mode of transportation, just nothing special, IMHO ...
I mostly drive a 2019 CX-9 Signature. But every time I drive our 2020 Mazda 3 Premium sedan, I am impressed. It feels and looks special.
I LOVE the Mazda3's design. It's so clean, and reminds me of the first Acura TSX. My concern in our test drive was that it was far too tight inside (for me) and the twist beam suspension wasn't up to multi-link standards on normal roads and highways. If Mazda could translate this design to a new Mazda6 (slightly shorter lengthwise than the last one), make the interior spacious, give it a great hybrid drivetrain and multi-link rear with the e-AWD rear axel.... i'd fall all over myself to get to the dealer even if it was $45k.
Kirk, thanks for showing the sedan some love. Most reviewers typically review the hatchback. I'm on my 2nd gen 4 sedan and it's a great daily driver. Reliable, good gas milage, and good performance. My biggest gripe is the small fuel tank. 12.7 (for AWD models) gallons is on the smaller side.
Smaller fuel tank means it’s cheap on your wallet when filling up. I wish my 2020 Corolla LE had a smaller tank than its current 13.2 which is still pretty good when filing up especially with todays gas prices
Still one of my favorite cars but I feel it's about time we get a new generation of Mazda 3
I upgraded from a 2023 Corolla SE to the 2024 Mazda 3 sedan (non turbo). The Mazda is superior in nearly every category.
Me too
*LOVE MY 22 Mazda3*
Got it in the DEEP CRYSTAL BLUE.
Awesome.
This video at least, this design reminds me of some of the newer Buick sedans from the side.
It's a nice car but $37k is pushing it! I'm glad I picked up a '23 AWD Premium sedan with the naturally aspirated engine, because in '24 you can no longer get all the goodies (Head Up Display, Bose audio, etc.) without going for the turbo. And with a 12.7 gal fuel tank, I think the 191 hp 2.5 provides a good balance between power and fuel economy. I'm easily able to beat the 35 mpg EPA highway estimate, sometimes hitting 40 mpg under ideal highway conditions.
City mpg is pretty brutal. My 12-14 mile weekly grocery/shopping run in a small city I can squeeze 24mpg in the summer if I miss traffic and restrain myself. 20-22 in winter as it desperately tries to warm itself up.
But I was easily able to swing a 37mpg avg in my turbo hatchback on a 750 mile road trip going the speed limit to SL+5-7mph. And that was including a half hour of back-roads bombing when I got to my destination state looking for a way around brutal midday traffic on the main expressway.
Actually letting it eat in the back roads was probably just as efficient. A 55mph expressway shouldn't have stoplights every quarter mile, people will just go 35 and hit every single red light.
I spend 40$ a week on gas and I drive freeway every day
I might be biased because I own one (a 2019 non-turbo Premium model Sedan in Mazda’s Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint) but let me just say, it is by far the best car I’ve ever owned so far. Does it have problems, of course it does.. every car/ brand/ model/ year/ etc. does. Their paint is beautiful but fairly thin, they have rattles on the inside which are annoying, the plastic covering the instrument cluster is horrendous.. like I mean the worst in the industry because if you even look at it wrong it’ll scratch to hell and back, it has virtually unusable rear leg space unless your no taller than 5’5.
The way Mazda thinks about their cars and their customers is unmatched by so many other brands though, even premium brands! The way the car drives and moves, the performance of the engine, the technology they give you for the price, the reliability of Honda and Toyota, is so insane that I’m surprised they aren’t more popular imo. They’re expensive but you get your moneys worth for sure and it’s sad that they always get compared to a Civic or a Corolla when that’s not what they’re comparable to. This has leather in every touch point where those two cars would have plastic, auto-leveling head lights, full led head lights AND taillights, led interior lighting, heads up display, heated steering wheel, 360 camera, memory seating, a freaking spare tire!!!, two different engines, offers AWD, DOES NOT USE CVTs WHATSOEVER contrary to what he said in the video, offers sedan or hatchback, almost everything is customizable down to how loud you want the turn signal to be, free 3 years of mobile app connected services with remote start, premium Bose audio system and YES, I KNOW, Bose is not technically considered “premium” but my god do they give above and beyond for this car. They have an entire video on how they designed the audio system to be centered around not just the driver but for everyone in the car. The way they place the speakers, subwoofer, tweeters, etc. and the soundddd that it gives off is incredible for this class and price point!!!
Overall, I think this is one of the best cars you could ever own and far more superior to a Civic or Corolla and the reliability alone should attract people away from BMW/ Mercedes/ Audi. I highly recommend one or to consider one!!
Its still the most attractive sedan in its class inside and out.
Needs a hybrid and hopefully a sport trim or trims with miata like manual option like si type r golf jetta gli gti r gr corolla wrx Elantra n not for sales but zoom zoom reputation which will in turn help sales of the non sport models.
Torsen beam has got to go now.
Torsion beam is for the price point
@@alvinsimba734 not at all it's main competition at that price point are independent rear suspension.
They obviously chose to put a class leading interior in place of the zoom zoom independent rear they used to have like the civic and others still have.
It was a huge mistake.
It would have been better to add $500 or so to the cost and keep its handling ride on bumps uneven surfaces corners competitive with the best in its class.
This also be why they chose to not have a proper sports specific version of their cars like their competition
The torsion beam is my biggest grievance. I have a 2012 Mazda 3 with 240,000 miles and I dare say it handles better at higher speeds, and handles my rough Chicago roads in the city better. I had a 2024 Mazda 3 non turbo rental and it was exponentially better than my 2012 except for the spirited driivng handling and potholes. I did some spirited driving on expressway ramps and it was very unstable compared to my 2012 with independent rear suspension.
I find the turbo has enough power to send to the rear to actually push the car and reduce understeer compared to my old 2011. But I also can't embrace liftoff oversteer like I did in my old one (quite fun). And you're spot on: I never got to test my 2011, but this hitting a daily triple (closed course in MX) feels floaty that high up. It's not a drag racer anyway, so it's a moot point . but I would hesitate to turn it into a track car. Fairly fun on twisty mountain roads tho.
@@markcoopers1930 as long as those roads are smooth. Which would be a track only. They say the torsion beam is hardly noticable... But then there are exceptions such as on public roads (imperfect roads). At the end of the day no matter what you modify it's a torsion beam at the end of the day, not an independent rear suspension which is superior in comparison for compliance and handling.
Don't get me wrong. Getting into and experiencing a 2024 vs. 2012 fwd 3 is like a Porsche to a Chevette. It's a great car just like Kris said.... For daily driving. Just don't push it or expect more from it than what it is.
@@chicagomike9778I mean I live in New England, our "newly repaved" roads look like gravel pits, come with gaps in the fresh pavement as a feature and form potholes 1.5" deep after the third rain, and they leave manhole covers recessed 2" below the road surface. Obviously I'm dodging the bad parts of the road all the time, but that's an unconscious instinct living up here. The only time in memory where I've felt the torsion beam show itself is hitting a severe bump mid-corner. Definitely noticable and not handled as well as multi-link would. Would rather not have felt it but the traction system adjusting where it was sending power kept it neutral. But I'm always pushing it when I get to corners without fear, and it's usually enjoyable.
A $100 strut brace helps the heavier front nose of the turbo models and $100 of brake pads fix the spongy brake feeling. One could also get one trim down from this, still get the turbo with minimum de-contenting and save a good $3k+
I'm not happy with the stock tires or rotors either, but a full swap of tires, pads, and rotors is a lot of money to replace before the OEM set wears out. So I'm slowly ticking down the miles waiting patiently.
And you're right. The carbon turbo is about as discounted as the base turbo HB was discounted to the P+ HB back in 2022. Before they got rid of the base turbo
@@markcoopers1930 Yes, the downside is only one color now in the non-Plus now... I know people call it the "base" too, that was what I had but it is literally a "Premium" just not in name so Mazda could try to imply that the jump to the Plus is bigger than it is... But hey, seriously, unless you are literally tracking, just getting the PowerStop Z23 pads helps with mushy pedal, which is the worst part about the brakes.
I think the non turbo models are the way to go
Looking for one. Why is the non turbo better?
@@curtbernardo more reliable, less money on gas and maintenance. I don't think you get much added performance between the two as well. Plus in order to get the added HP you need to use premium fuel
Yeah don’t regret my 22 carbon non turbo
GR corolla is far more expensive than a mazda3 turbo. In Canada its 9,000$ more for the GR corolla and that's without the markups. In reality GR corolla would be 15,000$ more because it gets marked up a lot and that's a big difference so I would not compare them at all in terms of pricing.
Also the GR Corolla's big weakness is that it still has a basic Corolla Interior with some tweaks. Every review of it finds that to be a big weakness for the price. Mazda is going to give you a MUCH better interior.
@@danieljones8706It's really a question of wether or not you want a real sports car or just a luxury feeling sleeper car that's far less sporty but still fun.
Fun fact about Mazdas when using the manual mode, if you hold the throttle before the click on the pedal it won’t auto up shift.
Why would a non auto upshift before the click be a benefit? What purpose does that serve?
@@mofayer Mazdas auto up shift before the redline, furthermore when going through corners it would be a bit annoying to have it up shift automatically when you don’t want it to.
Kirk, You really opened up my eyes with this review. I would never have thought to compare a Mazda 3 with a GR Corolla but at this elevated price they MUST be compared. The GR Corolla wins every time. 🥳🥳🥳I will credit Mazda for a offering a NA 2.5 engine in the lower trims. Toyota ought to do the same for mid-level Corollas as it might actually improve fuel economy as well as performance.
That's only the beginning. We've had our Mazda's built with... extras! Mostly, inside the engine compartment. Our specs.... 415 on the torque, 455 on the horse! Cost us 39,900... Delivered! There's nothing on the road, IMO, that looks, nor certainly performs like this does. Most importantly... Looks completely box stock! Manufacturers, for the money, will build you anything! Nice vid!
It's not a switchbacks champion. But with the Turbo, it is really a fun car, with all the power the non-boy racer crowd like me will ever need. It still is eminently classy and the interior is still quite striking for people getting in it for the first time. In the more basic turbo level, it really is a good value. I'm actually recommending the more basic Turbo to one of my immediate family. 👍
I still see many Mazda3 Premium hatchbacks in manual near me that have been sitting on dealer lots...tempting to go make a deal
That's wild. I was looking for those in 2022 and they were so rare that they were marked up well above the turbo, and when not marked up they had waiting lists months to a year long at each dealership
@@markcoopers1930 I'm thinking there's not much incentives that Mazda is giving its dealers to discount them more other than the low APR promos; with that in mind, I've even followed the Forte GT manuals, and they are becoming lot rot as well at Kia too. This is sad too because the regular Civic will lose the manual as well, with the only two keeping it being the CTR & Si
@@trdrav4 do it.
Picked up a soul red in manual transmission.
Very fun daily driver.
It’s still a beautiful looking car, inside and out! Thanks for posting!
✌🏻👍🏻✌🏻
I have a 2020 Mazda 3 Premium with 20k miles on it and simply can’t part with it. On one had its great they have changed virtually nothing on it but was hoping for a new front/rear fascia by now. I still holding out hope that a all new 3 comes out of left field in the next year or so but in reality Mazda has confirmed nothing about a new 3 anytime soon. I would like to think all of us owners could petition them and tell them we need another. There isn’t really much else in this class that can hold a candle to it imo.
I remember your video in the snow in Nebraska. It's the first video I ever watched on this channel. I remember you complaining about how it handled the potholes. I was car shopping at the time and the Mazda 3 was at the top of my shopping list. But they discontinued it in Jamaica and as a result, I went with the 11th gen Civic instead. 2 1/2 years later I'm still loving my choice. This would've been an awesome car though. But I do think it's becoming a little long in the tooth now. It's still relevant in 2024 but I think the look needs an update now. I wouldn't want to be buying one now and it looks just as they did 5 years ago. But Mazda is notorious for that. Just look at the Mazda 6. Funnily enough, we still get the 6 here but the 3 was replaced with the CX30.
Generations of cars are lasting far longer than they used to. Six years for a compact sedan is actually not that long for a generation and it has already had a mid cycle refresh.
@@gabrieliacoboni6951 The mid cycle refresh only addressed the tech and safety features though. We're six years on and nothing has been said about a redesign so that means someone will be buying a car in the seventh year that looks just like the first year of this generation. Can't speak for anyone else but I'd feel like I might as well have bought a used refresh with low miles for less money.
@@justincredible1990 They also slightly tweaked the exterior with grille and taillights. Additionally, as with all models, the trim level has changed from year to year. It's your money, do what you want with it. But 7 years for a generation of a vehicle is actually average. Further, most changes to commuter cars, even in a full refresh, are minimal at best (ie. recycle same drive train, same engine specs and so on). Doesn't mean much honestly. If you can live without the features in newer cars absolutely go used. I'd recommend it.
Used it’s definitely value. New not so much
I did not like the brakes on Mazda 3 and CX 30 when i test drove, which put me off big time. Did not liek the bite and takes probably a little to get used to, tested from 2022 model and 2023
Hi Kirk, what would you say about the awd system on this one? Compared to Acura/Honda and other Japanese like Toyota/Lexus and Infiniti/Nissan.
Great video, thanks!
Cool review. For any “all-new” model I hope they can carve out some more interior space in the back and add some better AC and USB attention also to the rear. I think that and making it less claustrophobic, especially in the hatch, would go a long way to making it more competitive to the Civic.
Your suggestions are all very positive but I would not be surprised at all if the Mazda 3 simply disappears after this generation.
@@rightlanehog3151 let’s hope they just address its flaws.
@@Jorge_Magallon We will have the answer in the next year or two. In my view the Corolla also needs to match or exceed the Civic for interior space.
I prefer analouge guages.
The center screen can handle other things
Hope mazda will bring back mazda6 I would definitely trade my cx5 to a mazda6!!
People are so weird about vents in the back. THEY ARE THERE. They are under the front seats, juat like they jave been on vehicles for the last 50+ years.
Exactly 😂
I rented a car like in the video (NA engine) recently and I did enjoy driving it. However, the 6-speed auto is really feeling dated in 2024. If it had an 8-speed, it would make for a better driving experience.
I don't need a glass roof. Mazda does have sweet interiors I just wish the color was lighter so I can see the luxury materials. Potholes will destroy those 18 inch rims.
2017 mazda3 sport with 77k km, only issues outside of maintenance was the windshield washer fluid float going out.
Kirk, will Mazda ever put a Hybrid in this car?
my question too
Makes sense to. Just to compete with the Corolla and the Civic hybrids.
Mazda is working on in-house hybrid possibly with skyactivX technology, but unclear if it will ever come to Mazda 3. It is said that CX lineup should have it.
@@tadasnever Mazda is being left in the dust by not bringing in a Hybrid.
@@robertwilliam9558 Agreed. They seem to be focused on lots of things at once and mainly on refining their current technology, which is holding them back (ehem...rotary).
Don’t understand why the synthetic sound is sooo much louder than the sound of what a normal gas car would produce. Might as well just add a sound that mimics a regular car and conform that way. The RAV4 Hybrid is guilty of this as well.
Big problem when Mazda 3 costs more than a lot of Camry cars
had one..terrible quality issues all within 2 years of ownership...water pump in the engine completely failed, key fob also failed. The torsion beam is also trash with the suspension..had 2 flat tires going over potholes going
Damn that’s absurd! Do you think you might’ve gotten a lemon?
@@wr1ght939 not sure, but being built in Mexico did not help it lol
Personally I don't like much of Mazda design exterior wise. But at the same time I like how they make minimalistic quite luxurious feeling.
I think is funny, the US may be one of a few countries where you can get the manual version only with Premiun. Anywhere else in the world, manual is the base model and auto is premiun
I think the HP is actually 256 on premium. Also, the is not really competing with the GR. The GR fits more in with the WRX, STI and Elantra N. Super cool to see Mazda introduce the Carbon trim which is definitely more affordable for the turbo. Buyers in this range are still price sensitive. I have owned all versions of the drive train of the 3 since 2012 and feel the standard NA is more than enough power, especially with the way they have the engine tuned.
Time for a new design.
What camera are you using?
You need to borrow David’s tool?!!
Any news or rumours on what’s in store for 2025, 26? When is the next gen getting here?
So crazy in Europe you can get the manual with AWD...and in Europe they allow red paint with red interior...which Mazda wont allow in the USA.
Are the 2.5 turbo oil consumption and valve seal problems still persisting on the current vehicles?
I love it!!!!
Awesome
My Mazda 6 carbon edition drive much better, ventilated seats, power passenger, rear vents, more space, and Independent rear suspension. :)
Of you ignoring the fact that its older, has worse mpg, slower, ageing technology, worse awd, awful backup cam and no 360 cam at all... Mazda 3 w
That never had awd. It is no where as capable with its fwd as this is with awd. This is quicker too. I’d take this all day.
@@itsquiwi8780I have 360 camera in my wife’s cx9 which really needs it. I do t miss it in my 6 and mine doesn’t have all wheel drive but I don’t need it :) I’m in CarPlay 100% so I don’t care about the Mazda system. It is a few seconds slower to connect wirelessly but I don’t mind.
@@ZACH_95_yes my 6 doesn’t have all wheel drive but I don’t need it. The independent suspension is a must for me after driving all these torsion beam cars. I do get it the 3 is cool but I’m not even tempted :)
Impressive. I wonder how this would stack up against the BMW 330i Xdrive.
Mazda, gives us a manual!!!
Good question, a better car than a BMW btw imo.
The 330 would rund circles in terms of performance, has more luxury, and independent rear suspension, 50/50 weight distribution, a transmission that is quite possible the best on the market (ZF 8 speed), options that you can't even get on a Mazda, more utility, and significantly better acceleration.
@@John-kx3ng You have got to be high. This Mazda isn't even as good as a GTi.
Exterior and interior dimensions are near identical. The 330i's trunk is significantly bigger, but the same size if comparing the 330e. Wheelbase of the 3 series is longer
Premium plus Mazda3 is significantly cheaper and better equipped than a base 330i Xdrive, WAY cheaper if the premium package is added to the bmw to get the heated seats, steering wheel, and HUD that the Mazda3 has (38k vs 50k after destination). But the Mazda3 can shave another 4k off the price with the turbo carbon edition. And of course the option for a hatchback.
But the Mazda has less exterior and interior design options (and allowed combinations), slightly less efficient. Knowing BMW's magic transmission tricks even though the BMW is 350lbs heavier it's quicker from a dig. Not to mention the BMW is RWD bias vs Mazdas' FWD bias, and could be had in pure RWD for a bit extra sportiness.
Mazda3 wins for value but if sporty driving is the goal betting that the Mazda3 will get a better autocross lap time is a good way to lose some dough. That said I still wouldn't even come close to trading in my turbo 3 HB for the BMW if they offered an even trade.
@@markcoopers1930 Unless you are upgrading the suspension and brakes, the Mazda isn't doing well on any autocross track. The 330 with the M Sport package is more than good enough out of the box. The 330 will trap 10 mph higher so it would roast the Mazda on a roll as well. Heck, a GTI beats it on a roll.
Given Mazda's smaller footprint compared to rivals, my hot take is they should just pull back and reassess their compact product range, and turn the 3 into a single product: a liftback sedan with a big cargo gate to give it a practical use case, and just axe the hatchback. They want to be a premium brand, so they should target rivals like the Acura Integra, and copy as many of those features as possible while playing to their strengths that Honda might overlook or de-emphasize, like torque, AWD, etc.
I don't say this as a hater (I'm a multi-Mazda owner) and I love the hatch design, but it is not a hot seller. Buyers preferring practicality generally just opt for the CX models over the hatchback, and Mazda has never been in the kind of business position where they can cater to every taste because they're so small. Just make the 3 into a single (practical) product and it would get a lot more attention.
finally going up on horses. Way to go Mazda. Still hate that they killed the Mazda 6 off
mazda want too much money to bolt on a turbo. you can save a a pile of cash by going naturally aspirated.
the 2.5L is not some tiny engine that absolutely needs a turbo
some of the other low displacement engines in cars that are around the mazda 3 price range may need a turbo but 2.5L is big enough to go without a turbo
Then buy the one without Turbo? There is also more involved then bolting on a turbo and you can get one trim down from the Plus, with only minimum less content, for only like $3k more then the NA.
@@DanielBrownOre it's a cool car and the turbo model will embarrass other compact cars, but at this price I would stretch for the base model of the new CX-70
@@jordanimatedstreaming Fair enough, the 3 is pretty small so families will want bigger for sure and the CX-70 is quite nice!
They are color matching the wheels with body on those trim.
I used to be a loyal mazda buyer. I bought one with that stupid rotary knob and hated it so bad I had to get rid of the car. Since then I have been a Subaru buyer. 3 in a row now. I have zero interest in buying from Mazda again until they get rid of the horrendous system.
6 speed manual sedan!!
Hasn’t aged a bit.
Good morning wow you got a 🤔 haircut 🤣👍
At that price, it would be better to get the new Camry instead (even though it's more of a family/older person's car). Alternatively, one could buy a fully loaded Civic Si, or Civic Sport Touring and pocket $6,000 in savings. If you want a Mazda 3 with the turbocharged engine and AWD, go for the Carbon Turbo trim.
Mazda schould give it a 8 Speed
HEY
This is too expensive for that it is.. the corolla is also like 10k less expensive soo I’d hope this has an advantage. But you can get a top end mid sized for the price of this soo I don’t see the point of this. Base models of this would give its competitors a run for its money.
Mazda's have always had weird throttle and terrible brakes. They need more gripping power. They require more effort than I like for stopping. Honda makes the best effortless brakes. They should spend more money on improving their brakes to fit their high-end interiors.
I agree Honda brakes typically feel just right
Very slow car. Most cars could easily gap this car. Even a Rav 4 smh and that prop rod is so obnoxious
Civic has nothing to worry about with this, even the updated Corolla is better than this. 🤭🤭🤭
The Corolla is for value shoppers. The Civic is probably the Mazda3's main competition in that there's a few trim and engine options available across the Civic lineup (Sport Touring, Si, but not so much the TypeR). Mazda is trying to be more premium than sporty and avoid the comparison... but these are the waters the 3 is swimming in at this price point. My real question about the Mazda3's future is what will happen when the Civic hybrid begins filling dealer lots. Mazda will need a hybrid powertrain option going forward for the 3 and, god willing, a new Mazda6.
@@chrissetina1107 They'd be smart to introduce a hybrid into the 3 but may not due to price and their clientele. I think a hybrid makes sense but the main competitors like the Corolla are woefully underpowered and honestly drive quite differently (synthetically). Like you, I do wonder how the Civic will impact them though keep in mind the Civic won't have AWD even as an option. Mazda might be happy to keep the 3 as is and accept it is a niche market but one they can maintain sales margins in.
@@chrissetina1107 it's not like people are saying I was going ro buy an A4 or 3 series, but instead I bought a Mazda 3.. they're not compelling enough for that role.
Mazda 3 2024 is a dinosaur and should be scrapped & a totally new model should replace it ! Same with most other Mazda models ...
Seriously?????
@@TalismanPHX Very much so ... Front end & rear of most ALL Mazda's are bland/generic ... Interiors are ok, but certainly room for improvements ... Mazda's make for a good mode of transportation, just nothing special, IMHO ...
and for $ 38k you can buy a big 3 row 2024 Chevrolet Traverse LS with 330 HP and more tec. inside 😂, this ´´old`` Car is totally overpriced.
Some people don’t like SUVS you know and this Mazda is fun to drive, once took it for a test drive. It was good.
Yeah I'd rather buy Mazda cuz I want my car to last more than 60k miles before some serious failure.
SUV and tech...
@@alvinsimba734 and you think that $ 37k is Okay for this car?
It’s a Chevy. Don’t want that trash