We got inside one of America's cheapest cars. See top Mazda3 features
Keith Laing- The 2026 Mazda3 is available as a sedan or hatchback with a starting price below $25,000.
- Standard features include a 10.25-inch center display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration.
- The sedan model offers 13.2 cubic feet of trunk space, with rear seats that fold down for more room.
The Mazda3 is one of the long-living nameplates in the Japanese company's history, dating back to its first appearance in U.S. showrooms in the 2004 model year.
Back now for a 22nd year, the 2026 version is one of America's cheapest cars, with a starting price for its base model that is below $25,000. It comes in five trims, and Mazda said in a press release when the vehicle was first announced that the Mazda3 "represents the entry point to the Mazda line-up and comes generously equipped with a robust suite of standard i-Activsense driver assistance and safety features."
"Available as a sedan or hatchback, Mazda3 delivers refined design, premium features, and engaging driving dynamics. Both sedan and hatchback models will arrive at dealerships this summer," Mazda said in a statement. "Buyers can choose between a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode or an available Skyactiv-MT six-speed manual. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, with i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD) available on select trims."
Mazda sold 29,266 Mazda3s in 2025, which was down 24.7% from the 38,877 units the company sold in 2024.
We tested the Mazda3's top trim, the Turbo Premium Plus, for a week. Take a look in and around the Mazda3 for yourself to see what makes the exterior and interior so eye-catching.
10.25-inch screen and full connectivity
The Mazda3 has a 10.25-inch center display with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The vehicle also has a push-button start, a remote keyless illuminated entry, a rearview camera, two front USB-C inputs, air conditioning, Bluetooth, and a standard eight-speaker Mazda Harmonic Acoustics audio system.
Over 13 cubic feet of cargo space
The Mazda3 has a very spacious truck that has 13.2 cubic feet of storage space. The vehicle's rear seats also can be folded down to create additional storage space.
Nice moonroof
The Mazda3 we tested had a nice moonroof that allowed a lot of sunlight in.
Mazda says the advantages of having a moonroof include the ability to let fresh air into the car without opening windows, and having better ventilation with the moonroof titled to help limit temperatures on hot days. The company says the moonroof also makes the vehicle feel larger and is more theft-resistant than full convertibles.