We Drove the 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback

Mazda, like every other automotive manufacturer, sells more utility vehicles than cars. As such, its car model offerings are down to just two –– the Miata roadster and the compact Mazda3 sedan and hatchback. The Mazda6 midsize sedan disappeared by 2022, leaving the two remaining car models and the current five lines of utility vehicles to fill the gap.

We recently drove the Mazda3 hatchback, a front-wheel drive model with naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine choices. All-wheel drive is available. Most models come outfitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission. But a 6-speed manual gearbox is available on select trims. On paper, the Mazda3 seats five, but it is ideal for four. If you purchase the hatchback, however, folding down the rear seat supplies cargo room rivaling a tiny crossover.

For the 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback, pricing starts with the Mazda3 2.5 S ($25,550), followed by the Mazda3 2.5 S Select Sport ($26,740) and the Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred ($28,440). Moving up the range, the all-wheel-drive Mazda3 2.5 S Carbon Edition is priced at $31,450, while the Mazda3 2.5 S Premium with the six-speed manual transmission comes in at $31,360. At the top of the lineup, the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD carries a price of $37,890. A $1,235 delivery fee is added to all trims.

Styled Right

The Mazda3 hatchback has a layout not unlike a small utility vehicle. It sits low to the ground, but its shapely body and near clamshell hatchback bring it closer to the CX-30 than to the sedan.

Mazda’s soul of motion (KODO) design language is at work everywhere. From a gaping maw to chiseled lines to pulled in corners, this hatchback looks very much the part.of a performance model. Modern lighting accents, choice body colors, and sport wheels options add to the drama. It is not overwrought. But it is not boring either.

Inside, the cabin is fairly plain and straightforward. Or, for a better descriptor it is uncluttered and unencumbered by excess knobs, switches, and lighting elements. And yet, this almost basic look is elegant. On top trim models, copious amounts of leather cover the seats, dashboards, and door inlays. This might be a look you would expect only with an Audi or Acura, but here Mazda pulls it off.

We found the front seats supportive and comfortable. Power control with lumbar support, heated seats, and an available heated steering wheel are nice to have items anywhere. They are totally welcome on the Mazda3. On base models, seats are covered in black fabric. Move up the trim range and imitation leather rolls out. Our Carbon Edition had bright red seats wrapped in leather. It offered a nice contrast to the carbon-colored paint scheme outside.

Technology Choices

The 2026 Mazda3 hatchback keeps its tech focused and clean. Front and center is Mazda Connect, displayed on an 8.8-inch screen, with a larger 10.25-inch display on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. On select trims, both connect wirelessly. Control is handled through Mazda’s rotary commander, not touch-heavy clutter. It works. It stays out of the way. And that is all we ask.

Move up the range and the experience sharpens. Navigation integrates cleanly into the system. A head-up display projects key information where you need it. Alexa Built-In adds voice control without fuss. Remote services and in-car Wi-Fi are available, expanding everyday usability. Even parking tech is covered, with an available 360-degree view monitor. Nothing flashy. Just thoughtful tech, layered in as you go.

Safety in Numbers

The 2026 Mazda3 hatchback packs a solid suite of driver-assist tech that feels useful, not buzzy. Standard features include lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control that holds speed and distance on the highway. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert keep an eye on areas you cannot see. They work quietly in the background.

Step up and you get more. Traffic-jam assist helps in slow moving traffic. Smart brake support intervenes when it senses a potential collision ahead. Mazda’s systems blend alerts and action without jerky interruptions. The whole package feels like an extra set of eyes, always ready but never intrusive. That is a win.

Under the Hood

For the 2026 Mazda 3, buyers can choose between two four-cylinder engines. The standard engine is a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter unit producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission on most trims, while the Premium trim is the only version that offers a six-speed manual transmission.

The available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivers a significant bump in performance, producing up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque when using premium fuel, or slightly less on regular fuel. This engine is offered exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission and is designed for buyers who want stronger acceleration and added passing power without moving to a manual gearbox.

For our weekly driver, Mazda sent us the hatchback in Carbon Edition guise. Besides the special color scheme, this model comes with the standard engine and all-wheel drive.

On the Road

If you shop the Mazda3, most trims come with standard front-wheel drive. These are perfectly drivable with decent handling. But the fun is with the all-wheel-drive versions as these bring the driving competence to the forefront.

Most small models are little more than glorified econoboxes, at least in basic form. Several, though, including the Corolla Hatchback, offer performance options that simply bring out the driving fun. With the Mazda3, that fun is still attainable whereas in the pricey VW Golf GTI it is not.

Count on a sport-tuned suspension with most grades, especially evident with all-wheel drive. These models offer measured steering, taut handling, and are quite capable on twisty roads. Credit the small footprint for making a difference too as these models are designed to carve up corners while remaining poised.

The Mazda3 just feels right – a weighty steering wheel never becomes tiresome. Yet, the driving is all about business. Indeed, a good old-fashioned hydraulic steering column delivers a precious driving experience, bringing a smile to your face.

Mazda equips the Mazda3 with G-Vectoring Control Plus technology. What this automated system does is to enhance handling, road stability, and evenness, by craftily managing engine torque and employing light braking to individual wheels. Lane changes, slippery road conditions, and cornering are among the areas where the tech excels.

Competitive Set

Although many manufacturers have abandoned the segment, the few competitors that remain are holding their own. At the top of this list are the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. You will also find the Kia K4, Volkswagen Golf, Subaru Impreza, and the Hyundai Elantra.

Parting Thoughts

If a sedan is to your liking, the Mazda3 offers that choice as well. You get a similar footprint and interior. The difference, of course, is the storage compartment – a small trunk versus an expansive cargo department.

Alas, it is not so much a lack of demand that may eventually cause the Mazda3’s demise. Rather, tariffs are a big factor as this model is made in Japan. Mazda may absorb some of the costs, but they will need to pass on the rest. An already thin profit line on this model range may doom that scenario. So, if you are considering purchasing one, your best choice is to do that now.

2026 Mazda3 Hatchback Specifications

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