2018 Mazda3 matches top-selling compact titans
Shopping for a new compact sedan or hatchback can be daunting, which is a good thing.
Honda, Toyota and Volkswagen have been leaders for several generations and deserve their annual strong sales. But Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia and Mazda also have superior offerings. The result is arguably the industry’s most competitive segment.
Mazda has improved throughout its lineup, with the last of its powerful but inefficient rotary engines discontinued in 2012.
The 2018 Mazda3 is nearing the end of the underdog’s third generation. It continues the carmaker’s stellar reputation as a versatile compact available as a sedan or hatchback.
It’s not the fastest compact, but it may be the most fun to drive. Acceleration from 0-60 miles per hour is 8.1 seconds, but it feels faster. Gas mileage averages are 26 miles per gallon in city driving, 35 miles per gallon on the freeway.
The 2018 Mazda3 largely remains the same as last year’s model. The 2017 edition received a retuned suspension, new electronic parking brake, updated dashboard design, new steering and new front and rear fascias.
But there are several small, pertinent updates this year. All trims now have automated braking, which operates only at lower speeds. The Touring trim features a new, darker-toned wheel
design. Vanity mirrors and an overhead sunglass holder are now standard on the same trim.
The upgrades were prompted because of stiff competition from the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze, Kia Forte and perennial best-selling Honda Civic.
The top-line Mazda3 Grand Touring model, my test vehicle, featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Compact sedans aren’t often defined as “zippy.” But the Mazda3 does it well. It’s responsive and authoritative. Turns and maneuvering through traffic is all part of the fun.
A six-speed manual transmission is also available, which would only add more fun to the Mazda3’s appeal for drivers who still enjoy shifting.
In addition to a healthy list of standard features from other trim levels, the Grand Touring model includes head-up display and leather seats. The seats are firm, with the driver’s electronically adjusted and the front passenger seat manually adjusted. The plexiglass head-up display would be better as a window projection feature; the pop-up functionality is flimsy.
One criticism: The overall visibility in the smallest Mazda is good, particularly in front and side view. But the sloping rear hatchback window is small and reduces the view. The hatchback’s rear pillars don’t help visibility. But the Mazda3’s rearview camera helps alleviate the issue.
The premium package ($1,600) and safety package ($1,000) are now grouped together as Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite. It features adds adaptive headlights, a heated steering wheel with paddle shifters and navigation.
The former safety package includes lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, traffic sign recognition and lane departure warning.
A constant concern among compact car owners is a potential for lack of safety. The Mazda3 received the highest safety ratings for crash impact by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Mazda3 earned five stars from NHTSA and a rating of Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.
The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf and others will retain their loyal followers, which is expected. Buyers’ habits don’t change quickly.
But the 2018 Mazda3 is stylish, comfortable and practical — traits required for a successful compact sedan. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $27,720, which translates easily — you get a lot for your money.