2026 Mazda3 Sedan

2026 Mazda3 Sedan Overview
 

Starting MSRP $24,550

 
 

i-Activ AWD

 
 

Standard Rear Seat Alert

 
 

WiFi Hotspot Available

 

 

Mazda has used many names for its compact sedans 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). Later, it was called the Protégé. All of these models impressed critics with their sporty handling and solid engineering.

The 2004 introduction of the Mazda3 raised the bar significantly. Its interior design, refinement, build quality, ride, handling, and overall sophistication prompted critics to compare it to luxury-brand sports sedans, which proved quite popular. Now in its fourth generation, the Mazda3 sedan continues to be a favorite among critics, boasting arguably the most attractive exterior in its class and an upscale interior. The Mazda3 remains the preferred choice among compact sedans for those in the know.

 
2026 Mazda3 Sedan Performance

Performance

The Mazda3's base 2.5-liter engine is sizable for its class, enabling smooth acceleration with a linear throttle response. Mazda maintains the model's fuel efficiency through its proprietary SKYACTIV technology, a comprehensive engineering approach that enhances all aspects of the Mazda3's drivetrain and chassis. Its application in the engine results in a 13:1 compression ratio compared to 10.0 to 10.8 found in most competitors. This allows the engine to generate more power for a given amount of fuel without risking knocking. The result is 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, with EPA city/highway/combined mpg ratings of up to 27/37/31 for FWD. The AWD Carbon Edition offers 26/35/30.

Because the Mazda3's chassis dynamics are so impressive, Mazda added the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus to better challenge them. Adding the turbo to this relatively large engine results in 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 the class. The turbocharged engine slightly lowers EPA-estimated fuel economy, but not by much, at 23/32/27 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 through minor adjustments to engine torque and selective braking, optimizing weight transfer during cornering to improve 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.

2026 Mazda3 Sedan Exterior

Exterior

The Mazda3 exterior proudly showcases Mazda's "Kodo" design language, which means "Soul of Motion." It aims to capture the feeling of movement and vitality in their cars, even when they're stationary, with flowing lines inspired by nature. Mazda accents this with simple, straightforward lighting and attractive wheels. From every angle, the shapes communicate their design without finicky details.

 

2026 Mazda3 Sedan Interior

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 sedan provides about 92.7 cubic feet of passenger volume, including 35.1 inches of rear legroom and around 36.5 inches of rear headroom. Behind the rear seats is 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which, of course, can be expanded by lowering either or both sides of the 60/40 split folding rear seatbacks.

2026 Mazda3 Sedan Technology

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 out 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 allows commands in simple English 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.

2026 Mazda3 Sedan Safety

Safety and Driver Assistance

The Mazda3 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 Sedan

 

 

 

 

 

 

2026 Mazda3 Sedan Trim Levels

2026 Mazda3 Sedan 2.5 S

2026 Mazda3 Sedan

2.5 S

Starting MSRP: $24,550

Highlighted Features:

  • 186-hp SKYACTIVE-G DOHC 2.5-liter inline-4 engine
  • 6-speed automatic transmission with Sport and manual-shift mode
  • G-Vectoring Control Plus
  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • Cloth seating surfaces and door trim
  • Mazda Radar Cruise Control
  • 60/40 split fold-down rear seatbacks
  • Remote keyless entry and push-button start
  • 8.8-inch center display
  • 8-speaker audio system with Mazda Harmonic Acoustics
  • Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility
  • MAZDA CONNECT
  • Two USB-C audio input ports
  • Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Rear Seat Alert
2026 Mazda3 Sedan

2026 Mazda3 Sedan

2.5 S Select Sport

Starting MSRP: $25,440

Highlighted Features:

  • 18-inch black-finish alloy wheels
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • Heated side mirrors
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel & shift knob
  • Leatherette-trimmed seats
  • Mazda Advanced keyless entry
  • Rear armrest with cup holders
  • Overhead console
  • Illuminated vanity mirrors
  • Alexa Built-in Voice Recognition system
2026 Mazda3 Sedan

2026 Mazda3 Sedan

2.5 S Preferred

Starting MSRP: $27,090

Highlighted Features:

  • Silver-finish 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Body-color side mirrors with tilt-reverse function
  • Power Sliding glass moonroof
  • Driver's seat with 8-way power adjustment
  • Driver position memory for seat and outside mirrors
  • Heated front seats
2026 Mazda3 Carbon Edition

2026 Mazda3 Sedan

Carbon Edition

Starting MSRP: $30,210

Highlighted Features:

  • I-ACTIV all-wheel drive
  • Black-finish 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Exclusive Polymetal Gray exterior color with black trim
  • Exclusive red leather seating surfaces and interior trim
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility
  • HD radio
  • Qi wireless phone charging
2026 Mazda3 2.5 S Turbo Premium Plus

2026 Mazda3 Sedan

2.5 S Turbo Premium Plus

Starting MSRP: $36,740

Highlighted Features:

  • 250-hp SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
  • i-ACTIV all-wheel drive
  • Auto-dimming side mirrors
  • Black rear spoiler
  • White 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 Hatchback, 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 Sedan? 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 Sedan, we offer extended warranty and protection programs to safeguard your investment. Get the best deals and specials available to you on the Mazda3 Sedan. 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!