The current generation Mazda 3 was released in 2019 and continues to be one of the best and most fun options in the compact category. Like most Mazda vehicles, its interior feels premium and its drive quality is zoomie.
For the 2024 model year, the Mazda 3 gets a new Carbon Turbo package and adds a newly-available 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Auto.
The 2024 Mazda 3 Hatchback is one of our favorites for road-going on a budget. It gets a realistic 30 or 29 mpg (depending on front-wheel or all-wheel drive) and comes with a strong list of standard equipment. Including alloy wheels from the get-go and a well-done 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower. The standard 8.8-inch center screen uses a command knob on the console and includes wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
We like the next up Carbon Turbo trim, though. This one upgrades the engine with a turbocharger, boosting output to 227 horses on regular gasoline and 250 on premium. All-wheel drive is standard as well. The larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/Auto, and red synth-leather seats are also standard in this model.
The price difference between the base (sedan) model and the Carbon Turbo hatchback model is pretty significant, however. Going from about $27,000 to $34,000. But the content, style, and turbo add a lot to this little car. So if that’s in your budget, it’s worth the money.
In everyday driving, the Mazda 3 Hatch is a fun vehicle. It adds just the right amount of pizzazz to keep things engaging and a smirk on one’s face. Out on the more open road, on a weekend drive or a fun “take the long way” drive home, it’s even better. Long straight stretches are boredom-inducing, as they are with most vehicles, but the Mazda 3 Hatch thrives on twisties and elevation changes. The turbo model in particular is on par with any standard or luxury vehicle its size.
Plus just look at it. The Mazda 3 Hatchback is a great looking little car. Surprisingly, despite its tiny footprint, the Mazda 3 has a great interior and a lot more cargo room than one would expect of it. It’s only interior flaw is its cramped back seat. But most cars of this class have that problem. It’s why so many have left the car market and headed into SUVs instead. And it’s a shame. The back seat is plenty big enough for child safety seats, kids, and most average-sized adults.
And as mentioned before, the interior is very upscale. The 2024 Mazda 3 has a very well-done interior design with good materials and a strong sense of style. It’s comparable to entry-level luxury rides for that.
On the whole, the 2024 Mazda 3 Hatchback is a great little car. One of our favorites for sure. It’s expressive, functionally practical, and great to look at.
This review originally published on DriveModeShow.com.
