Quick Highlights:
- The 2026 Mazda3 sedan starts at $24,550 and the hatchback at $25,550, with modest price increases.
- All trims come standard with an eight-speaker Mazda Harmonic Acoustics sound system, an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, LED lighting, and a full suite of driver-assist technology.
- Rare six-speed manual transmission remains on the hatchback 2.5 S Premium trim; FWD standard / AWD optional.
- Turbo Premium Plus models deliver 250 hp, 320 lb-ft, paddle shifters, 10.25-inch touchscreen, and Bose 12-speaker audio system.
Like the Subaru Impreza and other compact competitors, the Mazda3 returns for the 2026 model year with subtle but meaningful upgrades that show Mazda is thinking about both drivers and practicality. For enthusiasts and daily drivers alike, it’s refreshing to see a compact car that adds real value rather than just cosmetic tweaks.
Sedan and hatchback buyers now get improved standard equipment, including a richer eight-speaker audio system, a larger infotainment display, and a full suite of standard safety tech. Even under the pressure of new import tariffs, Mazda has absorbed most of the costs, keeping price hikes remarkably modest, ranging from only $75 to $915 depending on the trim.
The base 2.5 S sedan starts at $24,550—only about $400 more than last year—which, in today’s market, is impressive. The hatchback begins at $25,550, up just $165. That’s a win for anyone seeking premium features without breaking the budget.
Design, Wheels, and Interior Features
The Mazda3 looks good with clean, simple lines. Base trims ride on 16-inch wheels, while higher trims upgrade to 18-inch alloys, giving a more planted stance. LED headlights and taillights are standard across all models.
Inside, every trim now comes with the eight-speaker Harmonic Acoustics system and an 8.8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hatchback enthusiasts can still enjoy a six-speed manual on the 2.5 S Premium trim—a rare option in the compact segment.
Turbo Premium Plus trims feel more luxurious, with leather seats, paddle shifters, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Comfort features like dual-zone climate control, heated seats, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a moonroof are also included. The Carbon Edition stands out with AWD, Polymetal Gray paint, and red leather interior, offering a sporty yet understated look.
Safety and Technology
Every 2026 Mazda3 comes with the i-Activsense driver-assistance suite as standard, including forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-centering steering, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, and automatic high beams.
Premium trims add more features, including the Active Driving Display (a head-up display), the Adaptive Front-lighting System, Mazda Online Navigation with over-the-air updates, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Even the base models are well-equipped, while higher trims add convenience and premium touches without overcomplicating things.
Powertrain Options and Driving Dynamics
The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine produces 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive comes standard, with AWD optional on the Carbon Edition.
The Turbo Premium Plus features a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. Using premium fuel, it delivers 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. With regular fuel, the output is 227 hp and 310 lb-ft—this applies only to the AWD Turbo Premium Plus trim. The turbo engine is coupled with the six-speed automatic transmission.
For hatchback enthusiasts, the 2.5 S Premium trim is the only 2026 Mazda3 offering a six-speed manual transmission.
Fuel economy remains solid. The FWD sedan achieves up to 27/37/31 mpg (city/highway/combined), the AWD sedan 26/35/30 mpg. The hatchback gets 26/34/29 mpg (FWD), 25/34/28 mpg (AWD or manual), and 23/31/26 mpg on the Turbo AWD.
2026 Mazda3 Pricing Table (MSRP, Excluding $1,235 Destination & Handling Fee)
Sedan:
| Trim | Price | Key Features |
| 2.5 S FWD | $24,550 | 16-inch wheels, LED lights, 8.8-inch infotainment, 8-speaker audio |
| 2.5 S Select Sport FWD | $25,440 | 18-inch wheels, dual-zone climate, leatherette seats, Alexa built-in |
| 2.5 S Preferred FWD | $27,090 | Moonroof, heated seats, 8-way power driver seat |
| 2.5 S Carbon Edition AWD | $30,210 | AWD, Polymetal Gray exterior, red leather interior, wireless Apple CarPlay |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD | $36,740 | Turbo engine, AWD, 10.25-inch touchscreen, Bose 12-speaker audio, leather, paddle shifters |
Hatchback:
| Trim | Price | Key Features |
| 2.5 S FWD | $25,550 | 16-inch wheels, LED lights, 8.8-inch infotainment, 8-speaker audio |
| 2.5 S Select Sport FWD | $26,740 | 18-inch wheels, dual-zone climate, leatherette seats, Alexa built-in |
| 2.5 S Preferred FWD | $28,440 | Moonroof, heated seats, 8-way power driver seat |
| 2.5 S Carbon Edition AWD | $31,450 | AWD, Polymetal Gray exterior, red leather interior |
| 2.5 S Premium (6MT) FWD | $31,360 | Six-speed manual, adaptive headlights, leather seats, Bose 12-speaker audio, navigation |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD | $37,890 | Turbo engine, AWD, 10.25-inch touchscreen, paddle shifters, Bose 12-speaker audio |
All prices listed are base MSRPs and do not include the $1,235 destination and handling fee.
Market Context
Mazda North American Operations has performed well in 2025, selling over 255,000 vehicles in the U.S. through July—a 5.4% increase year-over-year. While crossovers dominate sales, the Mazda3 sedan and hatchback, along with the MX-5 Miata, remain strong players in the compact segment.
Release and Availability
The 2026 Mazda3 hatchback is already on sale in the U.S., while the sedan is expected to reach dealerships later this summer. With attainable pricing, engaging driving dynamics, premium features, and a retained manual transmission, the Mazda3 continues to set the standard for compact sedans and hatchbacks.
Source: Mazda
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