The Mazda3 is an amazing, incredible achievement.
While preparing this article, I could not help being stunned by these tasteful, unique and attractive designs inside and out.
Both the 5-door and the brand-new four-door sedan are extremely good-looking and sophisticated cars from all angles.
I thought to myself — is this the thinking man’s BMW or VW Golf? As I moved further into the specs, I realized — this is just a brilliant package up and down the range!
Automatic, manual, small engine or big: the Mazda3 just nails every single category or theoretical competitor I can think to name.
It is so good, so advanced, and so affordable from just $16,900 — it must with the Car-Revs-Daily Best of Award! (Yes, we do these honors year-round when appropriate.)
The new sedan maintains all the merits of the first-launched hatch: including outstanding efficiency, handling and even style.
There really is none of the previous Mazda3 sedan’s ‘stubby-ness’ in the tail section, while the LEDs front and rear might be a new favorite of mine at any price.
So, better than a Golf. A world better than the VW Jetta.
A extra 60 horsepower over the most-potent new Toyota Corolla. Style and tech (and comfort) to make the Honda Civic wilt.
Power Comparisons – 2.0-liter Mazda3 vs. Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra
Power Comparisons – 2.5-liter Mazda3 vs. Subaru Legacy and Ford Fusion (Ambitious!)
In fact, the Mazda3 is my new go-to answer when asked, “Hey, what car should I buy?”
My previous answer was invariably the Ford Focus, which has such a broad appeal that it scores big points with almost any car shopper.
But the Focus sedan, to be frank, is no-where near as desirable as the Mazda3.
INTERIORS
Some snazzy turntables of each color are below.
SNOWFLAKE WHITE PEARL MICA*
SOUL RED METALLIC*
DEEP CRYSTAL BLUE MICA
