Sleek lines and purposeful design elements give the 2025 Mazda 3 an athletic yet elegant presence. With impressive attention to detail, this hatchback turns heads both inside and out. The shield-shaped grille juts forward, providing a dynamic feel that suggests motion even when the car is still.
From its front end to the side profile, the Mazda 3 balances bold chrome accents with subtle, refined headlights. The rear roofline sweeps dramatically, creating a profile that’s distinctive yet less harmonious than the sedan’s more balanced design. Our test vehicle was finished in Machine Gray Metallic, sitting on 18-inch black alloy wheels, complemented by a black rear lip spoiler.
Inside, the cabin boasts a low-slung dashboard highlighted by metallic trim and tasteful stitching on selected models. A 10.3-inch display integrates smoothly into the dashboard design. While Mazda keeps its color palette minimal, offering only a stark tan or charcoal, the interior feels modern but lacks the warmth some buyers may desire.
PERFORMANCE
Several variants of the base Mazda 3 offer a 6-speed manual transmission, but most come with a 6-speed automatic, including our test model. Equipped with a 2.5-liter turbo-4 engine, it delivers 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular unleaded. Quick off the line, the powertrain strikes a balance without being overly aggressive.
Sporty handling is achieved through a firm suspension, which uses a front-strut and rear torsion-beam setup. Though not cutting-edge, the system provides a comfortable ride with minimal body roll. With precise steering offering solid feedback and ideal weight, the Mazda 3 feels nimble around town and retains its engagement even at higher speeds.
VERDICT
The 2025 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD we tested, dressed in Machine Gray Metallic, carries an MSRP of $35,800. With the premium paint and the addition of delivery, processing, and handling fees, the final price comes to a reasonable $37,580—offering strong value for the features it brings.
Competition
In the compact segment, the 2025 Mazda 3 holds its own against the Honda Civic, though it lags slightly in fuel economy, particularly with the Civic’s new hybrid option offering both power and efficiency.
Toyota’s Corolla brings solid design and handling but feels a bit behind the curve compared to more recent models. Subaru’s Impreza, with standard AWD, offers reliable traction year-round, making it a dependable choice for all-weather driving.
Hyundai’s Elantra shines with its sleek look and an efficient hybrid option, perfect for those seeking economy on their daily commutes. Meanwhile, the VW Jetta stands out for its spacious interior and excellent value, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
