2026 Mazda3 Hatchback

Starting MSRP $25,550

i-Activ AWD

Standard Rear Seat Alert

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Mazda used many names for its compact models in the past. The first compact model after the rotary era was called the GLC, which marketing took to mean "Great Little Car." It was then named the 323, following the model naming conventions of the time (626 and 929 sedans). Throughout this period, hatchbacks only had two doors. Later, the line was called the Protégé, with the wagon-like Hatchback known as the Protegé5. All of these models impressed critics with their sporty handling and solid engineering.

The 2004 debut of the Mazda3 raised the standards significantly. Its interior design, refinement, build quality, ride and handling, and overall sophistication led critics to compare it to luxury-brand sports sedans. The Hatchback proved to be quite popular, offering the space and convenience of a small SUV without the extra bulk, all while maintaining sporty handling. Now in its fourth generation, the even more stylish Mazda3 hatchback continues to be a favorite among critics, featuring arguably the most attractive exterior in its class and a surprisingly upscale interior. The Mazda3 model line remains the top choice among compact sedans and hatchbacks for informed buyers.

Performance

The Mazda3's 2.5-liter base engine is sizable for its class, providing smooth acceleration with a linear throttle response. Mazda preserves the model's fuel efficiency through its proprietary SKYACTIV technology, a comprehensive engineering approach that improves all aspects of the Mazda3's drivetrain and chassis. Its use in the engine results in a 13:1 compression ratio, compared to 10.0 to 10.8 in most competitors. This enables the engine to produce more power for a given amount of fuel without risking knocking. The engine delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, with EPA city/highway/combined mpg ratings of up to 27/35/30. The AWD Carbon Edition offers 26/35/30, matching the figures of the 6-speed manual-equipped hatchback-only Premium grade.

Because the Mazda3's chassis dynamics are so impressive, Mazda added the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus to challenge them further. Adding the turbo to this relatively large engine produces 250 horsepower and a truly impressive 320 lb-ft of torque. The model combines this with its i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive system for performance almost unheard of in its class. The turbocharged engine slightly reduces EPA-estimated fuel economy, but not significantly, at 23/31/26 mpg.

A standout feature on all Mazda3 models, exemplifying the brand's focus on sporty handling, is the exclusive G-Vectoring Control. This system subtly enhances handling and stability by adjusting engine torque and slightly braking at precise moments to optimize weight transfer during cornering, thereby improving the vehicle's yaw response. Its precise actions are hard to see, but overall, the driver gains more confidence when turning and feels more connected to the vehicle.

Exterior

The Mazda3's exterior proudly showcases Mazda's "Kodo" design language, which translates to "Soul of Motion." It aims to capture the feeling of movement and vitality in their cars, even when they're still, with flowing lines inspired by nature. You might think the sedan and Hatchback are the same until you get to the rear. To create a unified design for each body, they share only the hood, headlights, and roof panel. All other parts of the body are unique to each style. From every angle, the shapes communicate their design without finicky details. The Hatchback is also noticeably shorter than its sedan sibling, measuring 14' 7" compared to 15' 3" for the sedan.

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Interior

Mazda offers an elegant interior with premium materials that, as Car and Driver describes, "…exude a sense of luxury that rivals like the Hyundai Elantra and Honda Civic just cannot match." The 8.8-inch standard center display may seem small by today's standards, but it appears larger than its size suggests and is nicely integrated into the dash, angled toward the driver. All physical controls provide a quality feel and a distinct click when activated. This is also true for the controls on the attractive three-spoke steering wheel. Always serious about driving, Mazda keeps its gauges analog with a clear layout. Leather, the 12-speaker Bose® audio system, and other upscale features on higher trims further challenge luxury brands in upscale environments, but the clean design and high-quality controls are enjoyable across the entire lineup.

The model provides 92.7 cubic feet of passenger volume, including 35.1 inches of rear legroom and around 36.5 inches of rear headroom. The cargo space offers 20.1 cubic feet, expanding to 47.1 cubic feet with both sides of the 60/40 split-folding seatbacks down.

Technology

Mazda's driver-focused philosophy shapes the cabin technology. The center touchscreen is usable when the car isn't moving, but on the road, all controls are accessed via a conveniently located rotary knob and button on the center console. This eliminates the need to reach out and carefully touch the screen while driving, allowing the screen to be positioned high and set back to reduce eye distraction from the road. It's a bit different from a typical touchscreen, but you'll quickly find how easily you can operate the control. The 10.3-inch larger screen on the upper models can be operated either by the rotary control or touchscreen at all times.

All models except the base S have the Alexa voice recognition system, which accepts simple English commands and learns your command style as you use it. Available on all models is the Mazda Connect service, which, through your smartphone app, offers features such as remote start, remote door lock and unlock, vehicle status reports, and vehicle finder. The service has a free trial, followed by a $10/month subscription.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The Mazda3 hatchback has an overall 5-star rating from the NHTSA and received a 5 out of 5 stars in all individual impact test categories. Additionally, the model has been named a TOP SAFETY PICK+ by the IIHS, their highest rating.

Standard on all models is the i-ACTIVSENSE suite of driver assist and safety technologies that use cameras and sensors for various features such as:

Mazda Radar Cruise Control
Lane Keep Assist
Lane Departure Warning System
Blind Sport Monitoring
Smart Brake Support with pedestrian, bicycle, and motorcycle detection
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Driver Attention Alert
Rear Seat Alert
Vehicle exit warning

In addition to the usual dual front and side-impact and side-curtain airbags, all models also feature knee airbags for the driver and front passenger.

Introducing the 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback

2026 Mazda3 Hatchback Trim Levels

250-hp SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
i-ACTIV all-wheel drive
Auto-dimming side mirrors
Front air dam and air guides
Wiper deicer
Red or black leather-trimmed seats
Paddle Shifters
Heated steering wheel
Frameless auto-dimming interior rearview mirror
10.25-inch center display with touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
360 View Monitor
Front and rear parking sensors
Rear Cross-traffic Braking
Cruising and Traffic support

At Team Gillman Mazda, you will have an automotive experience unlike any other. You can find new Mazda inventory, including the CX-5, CX-70, CX-90, CX-50 Hybrid, Mazda3 Sedan, and an unmatched collection of used car, truck, van, SUV, and crossover inventory at our dealership near you. Are you interested in leasing or financing your Mazda3 Hatchback? The Finance Department at Team Gillman Mazda can help you find the right lease offer or finance solution that fits your budget. We cultivate relationships with many banks, lenders, and other financial organizations to provide you with great options in purchasing your new vehicle. In addition to the comprehensive factory warranty that comes with your new Mazda3 Hatchback, we offer extended warranty and protection programs to safeguard your investment. Get the best deals and specials available to you on the Mazda3 Hatchback. Our knowledgeable sales staff wants to help you find the perfect fit in a new Mazda or used car. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Team Gillman Mazda family and help you find your new car or used vehicle. Your support and customer service doesn’t stop after you sign your deal. The expert Service Department at our Mazda dealership near you is always ready to help with any repairs or maintenance you might need to keep your vehicle running perfectly. Our Express Service Lane will get you back on the road quickly when you need basic maintenance like an oil change or tire rotation. Would you like to make your new car all your own with personalized upgrades? Our well-stocked Parts Department has all of the Mazda genuine parts and accessories you need for the best customization of your vehicle. Make your car, truck, or SUV uniquely yours to fit perfectly in your lifestyle. We are eager to help you on your car buying and vehicle ownership journey. Visit us today at Team Gillman Mazda!