With so much focus on Mazda’s midsize and large SUVs, it can be difficult to remember that it was smaller vehicles like the Mazda 626 sedan and 323 hatchback that put the brand on the map. If you’re looking for a little reminder of just how good Mazda’s legacy of compact hatchbacks is, spend a week with the 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback 2.5 S Premium — with a 6-speed manual.
The Mazda3 can be had as a 4-door sedan or hatchback, but the hatch is clearly the best choice of the two.
The Mazda3 can be had as a 4-door sedan or hatchback, but getting anything but the hatch is just silliness or stubbornness, as it’s clearly the best choice of the two — just load something in the back, and you’ll see.
So often, a hatchback is basically the smaller version of some larger crossover in that brand’s lineup. And while Mazda’s crossovers are nice looking, the Mazda3 hatch is definitely not borne of those CUVs. It’s lower, less bulky and looks a little sporty in the right color, like the RED our tester came in.
Moving on
And those sporty looks are supported under the hood … mostly. The Mazda3 hatch is powered by a 186-horsepower 4-cylinder that can be upgraded to a turbocharged version that puts out up to 250 hp if you fill the tank with 93 octane. If you choose regular, that output drops to 227 hp.
The Mazda3 hatch is powered by a 186-horsepower 4-cylinder that can be upgraded to a turbocharged version that puts out up to 250 hp.
Regardless, when paired with the 6-speed manual, you are set up for fun regardless of which three horsepower options you select. It’s nimble and quick — quick enough for you to see flashing blue lights if you’re not careful. Fortunately, I’m careful. I would say, I’d love for powertrain engineers to shorten up the throw. It just feels a bit loose, especially when you’re taking it out for some … exercise.
Put it in sport mode and you get a fun, tossable little car that is agile, makes a little bit of noise without draining your bank account. Fuel economy is good at 26 mpg city, 34 highway and 29 mpg combined. If you get the turbocharged model, that drops to 23/32/27.
Moving inside
Mazda’s hallmark these days is its interior quality, and while the Mazda3 is a few steps below the CX-50, CX-70 and CX-90, there is still plenty of attention to detail inside. The leather seats are supportive and comfortable. They kept me in place during any aggressive maneuvers. Plus, the front seats and the steering wheel are heated, which is nice.
Mazda’s hallmark is its interior quality, and while the Mazda3 is a few steps below the CX-50, CX-70 and CX-90, there’s still plenty of attention to detail inside.
However, there isn’t a lot of room in there. I’m hefty and I had to work to get in and out of the Mazda3. But if you aren’t very mobile with stiff knees or back, you might not be very happy getting in or out of this little hatch.
The rear seats are not bad, considering it’s a compact vehicle. I think average adults would be just fine in either row, but if you are … outside the average, you may need a CX-5 or CX-50.
That said, there is plenty of space for things in the Mazda3. There are two cupholders just in front of the shifter, as well as the wireless charging pad for the phone, which worked very well. The center console has a good-sized cubby, and you could fit plenty of stuff in it, including a medium-sized purse. The cargo space behind the second row is fine for groceries or other small items. However, if you’re planning a trip, you’ll need to choose wisely because it’s not a huge space.
Tech talk
Fuel economy is good at 26 mpg city, 34 highway and 29 mpg combined. If you get the turbocharged model, that drops to 23/32/27.
Like so many of its larger siblings, the Mazda3 features an 8.8-inch infotainment screen with the option to move up to a 10.25-inch screen. Both use the command knob to help everyone work through the Mazda Connect system.
Some other 2026 Mazda models are moving to a new touchscreen setup because people like me complain about using the knob. Can’t wait for it to happen with the Mazda3. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available.
Mazda’s iActivsense of safety features helps keep everyone safe. This suite of safety tech includes driver assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams. Additional optional features include blind-spot monitoring and an adaptive front lighting system.
Would I?
With small cars, it comes down to price, and the 2.5 S Premium starts at $32,683, including destination fees. Do I feel like I’m getting good value for my money at that price? Yes. I do. However, would I get one? No. I’d try to move up to the CX-5. But … if they offered a hot hatch version of it for say around $35K … yup, you betcha!
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