2020 Mazda 3

With prices starting at $21,000, the 2020 Mazda 3 compliments Porsche-like design references and shares fluidic precision on every inch of the sedan. From the climate control system to the audio knobs, all of them feel comfortable and offer equal resistance when turned. Mazda has given utmost attention to detail in order to provide the best-in-class driving experience. The 2.5L inline-4 never feels short of power. It is not a track-worthy car but offers a lot of joy in spirited driving.

Although it feels like a complete package, there are several competitors that are breaking ground as well. The Honda Civic gets you more features as standard while the Kia Forte offers enough customizations to suit all your needs. Even so, nothing would beat the excellent value for money that the Toyota Camry offers. It is the best selling sedan in the US for a reason.

The 2020 Mazda 3 sedan is available in four trim levels. Starting at $21,000 for the base trim, Mazda 3 competes well with other players such as the Kia Forte, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Subaru Impreza. All variants of the Mazda 3 sedan are powered by a 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve, 4 cylinder engine and are coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. All the sedan trims come with front-wheel-drive as standard, with all-wheel-drive available as an option for all except the base sedan.

Trim	Mazda 3	Mazda 3 Select	Mazda 3 Preferred	Mazda 3 Premium
Price	Starts at $21,000	Starts at $22,600	Starts at $24,200	Starts at $26,500
Key Features	2.5L DOHC 16-valve inline-4 engine	18-inch wheels	12-speaker Bose premium sound system	Power sliding sunroof
	SkyActiv-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission with sport mode	Automatic Headlights and Wipers	Heated front seats	Heads-up driver display
	186 horsepower	Adaptive cruise control	Eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory	Steering-mounted paddle shifters
	186 lb-ft of torque	Driver attention monitor	Satellite Radio	Adaptive Headlights
	Engine-immobilizer with anti-theft system	Simulated leather upholstery
	8.8-inch LCD Multi-Information Display with trip computer	Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
	MAZDA CONNECT™ Infotainment System

We Recommend

The Select package of the 2020 Mazda 3 sedan complements the complete package Mazda 3 has to offer. Adding just over $1000 will fetch you amazing value for money. The configuration adds all but the most premium features to the sedan. The only option that will make you pick the Premium trim is the 6-speed manual gearbox.

"The 2020 Mazda 3 has a very responsive powertrain plus precise steering, a firm but compliant ride, and very capable handling."

-The Car Connection

Engine and Transmission

Under the hood, the 2020 Mazda 3 lineup comes with a single option for the powertrain. A 2.5L inline-four engine that produces 186 hp and the same figure in lb-ft of torque. It is not that sporty but the freedom of being naturally aspirated makes it a joy for spirited driving. The response from the throttle is adequate and you never feel out of power when out on the highway.

The engine is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission which comes with all trims as standard. A 6-speed manual transmission with paddle shifters on the steering wheel comes as an option only for the Premium trim. Nevertheless, the automatic works smoothly to cater to all your driving needs. And it is not likely you are taking this car out on a track anytime soon.

Models	Mazda 3 Select	Kia Forte EX	Honda Civic Sport	Toyota Corolla XLE	Hyundai Elantra Sport
MSRP	$24,000	$21,990	$21,150	$22,135	$22,600
Engine	2.5L inline-4	2.0L inline-4	2.0L inline-4	1.8L inline-4	1.6L Turbocharged inline-4
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic	2-speed CVT	6-Speed Manual	CVT	5-speed manual
Horsepower	186 @ 6000 rpm	147 @ 6200 rpm	158 @ 6500 rpm	132 @ 4300 rpm	201 @ 6000 rpm
Torque(lb-ft)	186 @ 4000 rpm	132 @ 4500 rpm	138 @ 4200 rpm	128 @ 1600 rpm	195 @ 4000 rpm

For what it's worth, the Mazda 3 sedan offers a great value package. It might be expensive but the added power and feature make it well worth the extra cash. It is surpassed in its power figures only by the Hyundai Elantra Sport. For those who prefer a more hands-on experience, the manual transmission of the Honda Civic provides the ability just right.

Acceleration

The acceleration from the 2.5L engine is firm and consistent. The Mazda 3 is a civilized sedan that never feels out of grunt. As you depress on the accelerator, you never feel any jerks as the car gains momentum. The Mazda 3 can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 7 seconds flat, which makes it faster than most other sedans in the segment. Its SkyActiv-X engine also helps minimize CO2 emissions, which saves a lot on gas-guzzler taxes.

Models	Mazda 3 Select	Kia Forte EX	Honda Civic Sport	Toyota Corolla XLE	Hyundai Elantra Sport
0-60 MPH	7.0 sec	8.2 sec	6.8 sec	8.5 sec	9.0
Quarter Mile	15.4 sec @ 91.2 mph	16.4 sec @ 86.3 mph	15.2 sec @ 92.2 mph	16.5 sec @ 85.4 mph	16.8 sec @ 84.5 mph
Engine	2.5L I-4	2.0L I-4	2.0L I-4	1.8L I-4	1.6L Turbocharged I-4
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	4.09	6.25	5.25	4.40	8.39

It is the Honda Civic that surpasses the Mazda 3 in terms of straight-line performance. But just barely. All the other sedans fall behind by a considerable margin. They don't care much about Johnny the Polar Bear, either. The Hyundai Elantra does worst, with emissions equivalent to a modern-day Camaro SS.

Braking

The brakes on the 2020 Mazda 3 Sedan may not be the biggest but provide excellent control of the car at any speed. During a panic stop, the Mazda 3 can stop dead from 60 mph within 112 feet, a feat unmatched by any other sedan in this segment. The travel and bite of the brakes is adequate as well.

Models	Mazda 3 Select	Kia Forte EX	Honda Civic Sport	Toyota Corolla XLE	Hyundai Elantra Sport
Brake Front (in.)	11.6	11.0	11.1	10.8	12.0
Brake Rear (in.)	10.4	10.3	10.2	9.0	10.3
Curb Weight	3248	2903	2838	2870	3075
60-0 mph	112 ft.	118 ft.	113 ft.	120 ft.	119 ft.

The Honda Civic comes a close second to the Mazda, losing because of its slightly smaller brake size. The weight of the car is always a factor when braking is considered. However, the Mazda 3 has excellent driving dynamics that provide it sufficient traction to more than makeup for it. That is why lighter cars with bigger brakes fare worse than the Mazda.

Ride and Handling

The overhaul of the 2020 Mazda 3 equips it with a retuned suspension that makes the Mazda a comfortable compact sedan on any tarmac. The steering is responsive and there is no drama as the car turns into a corner. Even at highway speeds, understeer is kept to a minimum. The car sprints ahead with lively acceleration as you put your foot down when coming out of the corner, which is something not a lot of budget sedans are able to do. Going for the AWD is rewarding, as the added traction keeps the car gripped to the road in the best possible manner.

The cabin is mostly quiet. Even the engine drone is anything but audible at city speeds. Some wind and road noise makes its way into the cabin as you speed up, though active noise cancellation of the audio system helps minimize that. The automatic transmission makes every shift smooth, though it takes away some fun out of the driving experience, focusing on convenience instead.

The generous power output of the Mazda 3 doesn't come without any trade-offs. It does give the car fewer miles per gallon of fuel. The 2020 Mazda 3 is capable of a combined fuel economy of 28 miles/gallon, which puts it at the bottom of the barrel in this price range. The Kia Forte takes the crown of the most fuel-efficient budget sedan with a combined fuel economy of 34 mpg.

Model	Mazda 3 Select	Kia Forte EX	Honda Civic Sport	Toyota Corolla XLE	Hyundai Elantra Sport
MPG (City)	25	30	25	28	22
MPG (Combined)	28	34	30	32	25
MPG (Highway)	33	40	36	36	30

"Mazda has succeeded in delivering a sporty premium experience without sacrificing comfort. Credit its compliant ride, comfortable and supportive seating, and sufficiently noise-insulated cabin."

-Edmunds

Seating and Comfort

The quality of the interior of the 2020 Mazda 3 might be mistaken for a much more expensive luxury sedan. It is well-built with each panel assembled with precision. Most of the trims offer leather upholstery, so the cabin feels supple and smooth to touch from every seating position. Still, a few plastic bits here and there remind you that this is a Mazda after all. There is plenty of headroom and legroom for all occupants, though taller passengers in the back might feel cramped. The sloping roofline might make it difficult to get in and out of the cabin, but the wide-open doors ensure that doesn't become much of a problem.

The dual-zone climate control works well for all atmospheric conditions. The heated seats have multiple levels of heating, providing maximum comfort over a wide range of temperatures. Mazda uses old-fashioned knobs and dials to make it easier to access the climate controls, unlike the fancier Mercs which have a screen and ten different menus just to cool the cabin down on a hot California summer day.

Model	Mazda 3 Select	Kia Forte EX	Honda Civic Sport	Toyota Corolla XLE	Hyundai Elantra Sport
Passenger capacity	5	5	5	5	5
Front Room(Head/Shoulder/Leg)(in.)	38.0/55.742.3	38.8/56.1/42.2	39.3/56.9/42.3	38.3/54.8/42.3	38.8/56.2/42.2
Rear Room(Head/Shoulder/Leg)(in.)	37.3/53.5/35.1	37.5/55.3/35.7	37.1/55.0/37.4	37.1/54.8/41.4	37.3/55.3/35.7

All of the competitors in this segment offer more passenger space than the Mazda 3, though only a few of them match the luxury and comfort of the cabin. The Civic comes the closest since it has a long list of standard features that are mostly offered as options on the Mazda. For a true luxury sedan experience, you can very well choose the Elantra. The Hyundai even has an option for interior air filtration and aroma system.

Infotainment

The tech inside the 2020 Mazda 3 lets you know that the sedan is catching up with all the latest trends in technology, as it tries to add a few of its own. It is unique for a budget sedan to come up with a large LCD display with smartphone compatibility. Mazda abandons the touchscreen in favor of a command-control knob, which makes it easier to operate the system when keeping your eyes on the road. We would love a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, though there are enough features to make the driver feel as convenient as possible. There is even an option for a HUD on the driver-side windshield.

Some other infotainment features include:

• AM/FM/HD Radio
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio
• 8-speaker full-range door-mounted type sound system
• Tweeter speakers
• Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio
• 2 USB ports
• MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system inc. voice command
• 8.8-inch center display
• Multi-function commander control
• Radio broadcast data system program information
• SMS text message audio delivery and reply
• Android Auto/Apple CarPlay compatibility
• 2 LCD Monitors in the front

Interior Features

• Front Bucket Seats -inc: adjustable front and rear headrests
• 8-Way Driver Seat -inc: Manual Recline, Height Adjustment, Fore/Aft Movement and Cushion Tilt
• 4-Way Passenger Seat -inc: Manual Recline and Fore/Aft Movement
• 60-40 Folding Bench Front Facing Fold Forward Seatback Rear Seat
• Leather Steering Wheel & Shift Knob

 Cargo Capacity

The 2020 Mazda 3 offers a generous 13.2 cubic feet of boot space which is adequate for the size of this sedan. It has a wide trunk lid that makes it easier to load in luggage. If required, the back seats can be folded down to increase the trunk space. There is plenty of small-item storage upfront, though. A dedicated smartphone stand with wireless charging, a hidden storage compartment beneath the console, and a cupholder for every passenger just to mention a few.

Though it makes for a good utility for any urban commuter, other sedans fare better in terms of cargo capacity. The Kia Forte has the biggest boot in the bunch. With all seats upright, the Kia can store up to 15.3 cubic feet of luggage.

Model	Mazda 3 Select	Kia Forte EX	Honda Civic Sport	Toyota Corolla XLE	Hyundai Elantra Sport
Cargo Volume (ft.3)	13.2	15.3	15.1	13.0	14.4

"Few will argue with the sedan’s beauty. We think it is among the most stylish in its segment."

-Kelley Blue Book

Design and Styling

It certainly seems like the designers worked hard for the 2020 update of the Mazda 3. It is easy to mistake it for a sports sedan from afar. Its smooth streaks and elegant lines over the front running uninterruptedly through the back of the car reminds us a lot of the Porsche 911. It is a beauty to look at, with no aggressive outlines or any sharp edges that disrupt the finish of the car. The doors merge with the body of the car seamlessly. The slim LED headlights go well with the low slung design of the Mazda 3.

Dimensions and Weight

Model	Mazda 3 Select	Kia Forte EX	Honda Civic Sport	Toyota Corolla XLE	Hyundai Elantra Sport
Curb weight (lbs.)	3248	2903	2838	2870	3075
Length(in)	183.5	182.7	182.7	183.1	181.9
Width(in)	70.7	70.9	70.9	69.9	70.9
Height(in)	56.9	56.5	55.7	57.3	56.5
Ground clearance (in)	5.5	5.3	4.25	6.7	5.5
Wheelbase (in)	107.3	106.3	106.3	106.3	106.3
Track width (in) F/R	61.7/62.2	61.0/61.3	60.9/61.5	59.8/59.9	60.8/61.4

The 2020 Mazda 3 sedan is a big and heavy car. It has a wide tread on the road and you may want to keep it separated from tight confines or narrow streets as much as possible. The smaller sedans in this price range may not handle quite as smooth, but their compactness would make it easier to park in a crowded lot.

 Exterior Features

• Body-Colored Rear Bumper
• Front Lower Bumper Black Gloss Decoration
• Clearcoat Paint
• Black Side Windows Trim and Black Front Windshield Trim
• Body-Colored Door Handles
• Body-Colored Power Side Mirrors w/Manual Folding
• Side Mirror Turn Lamps
• Fixed Rear Window w/Defroster
• Variable Intermittent Wipers
• Fully Galvanized Steel Panels
• LED Brakelights
• Perimeter/Approach Lights

The IIHS has rated the 2020 Mazda 3 sedan for all aspects of its safety. The car received the highest grade of 'Good' in all categories, which proves beyond any doubt that the Mazda 3 can ensure the safety of the occupants in the event of any crash. So far, there has been no report from the NHTSA regarding the crashworthiness of the 2020 Mazda 3, though we can safely assume it will share a similar result.

The advanced suite of safety tech that inhabits the Mazda 3 sedan can help the driver avoid most of the hazardous scenarios. Tests from the IIHS proved that the Mazda 3 is capable of avoiding a head-on collision at speeds up to 25 mph. An array of blind spot sensors can alert the driver of any potential obstacles out of the line of sight. A Driver Attention Alert System is standard for the Select trim and above. This system monitors 70 different parameters to determine the signs of fatigue or if enough attention is paid on the road ahead. 

Safety Features

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• ABS And Driveline Traction Control
• Side Impact Beams
• Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
• Tire Specific Low Tire Pressure Warning
• MazdaConnect Emergency SOS
• Driver Attention Alert
• Lane Departure Warning And Lane Keep Assist
• Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Emergency Braking
• Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags
• Blind Spot Monitoring System
• Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags
• Airbag Occupancy Sensor
• Driver And Passenger Knee Airbag
• Rear Child Safety Locks
• Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts
• Back-Up Camera with Cross-Traffic Alert

Mazda 3 vs Kia Forte

Mazda has redesigned the sedan for 2020 and this has resulted in a slight change in the legroom of the car. It is not that much of an inconvenience, though the Kia Forte is a car that offers better passenger space than the Mazda 3. In terms of performance, the Mazda 3 can run circles around the Forte, albeit with less fuel efficiency. The standard safety suite and a gorgeous exterior design tip the decision in favor of the Mazda 3. Not to mention the Mazda is not that prone to safety and operational hazards as much as any Kia in the US market.

Mazda 3 vs Honda Civic

The Civic has been a cult offering from Honda in the US car market for a very long time now. When compared with the 2020 Mazda 3 sedan, Honda Civic stands on the second podium due to a less powerful engine on the Mazda 3 which in turn strips the car of drive quality and acceleration. Although when compared in terms of safety, the Civic definitely feels more eligible due to the standard Honda Sense suite safety technologies. The interiors of the Mazda 3 are designed more plush and premium giving it an upper edge when compared to slightly less posh and practical Honda Civic. Better safety features, enhanced performance, and improved reliability make the Mazda 3 a clear winner.

The Mazda 3 is a promising offering in the US car market, with almost all the features possible in a sedan coupled with amazing aesthetics and a powerful engine. On practical grounds, Mazda also has good fuel economy and amazing drive quality. If slightly less legroom in the rear seats and a front-wheel-drive doesn't bother you, Mazda 3 is one of the best sedans you can go for.

FAQs

Is Mazda 3 reliable?

Yes. The average annual repair cost for a Mazda 3 sedan is $433, which is way less than other sedans in this segment. It is, therefore, less prone to failure of components or breakdowns.

Is Mazda 3 a compact sedan?

Yes. Its short wheelbase and low ride height make it a fun-to-drive compact sedan.

How fast can a Mazda3 go?

The 2020 Mazda3 Sedan can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 7 seconds. It can cover a quarter-mile in 15.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph.

Is Mazda3 expensive to insure?

No. The average annual premium for a 2020 Mazda3 Sedan is $394, which is 54% lower than the class average.