Sporty and versatile, the Mazda3 continues to stand out in the compact segment thanks to its engaging handling and its multiple configurations.
The consumer can choose between two bodies (sedan or hatchback), three engines, two transmissions and two cogs. Only the hybrid and electric versions are conspicuous by their absence. This Mazda comes in GX, GS and GT variants.
To test the dynamics of the car, we were able to test the Mazda3 Sport GT Turbo, a hatchback version equipped with a turbo engine and all-wheel drive. This is the model at the top of the range and it costs $37,400. But the Mazda3 is also one of the most affordable vehicles found on the market since it is sold at a starting price of $21,900 (MSRP).
Photo: Dominic Boucher
Pleasant to drive
On board, sportiness is displayed via bucket seats, a cockpit-style interior and instrumentation equipped with dials paired with a seven-inch screen. It also translates on the road thanks to the steering that responds to the finger and the eye, the firm suspension and the driving position that provides good support for the back and the legs. That said, the backrest is a little narrow at the shoulders could bother some drivers.
The passenger compartment provides adequate space for occupants seated in the front. At the rear, it’s not as good as the most spacious compacts in the segment. The trunk has a volume of 569 litres, which increases to 1,334 liters when the seats are folded down. On the other hand, some elements affect visibility, in particular the reduced windows, an imposing C pillar and the narrow rear window.
Photo: Dominic Boucher
The sedan surprises with its handling, even if the rear suspension is a torsion beam. The i-ACTIV all-wheel drive allows for sharp take-offs and G-Vectoring Control (GVC) optimizes performance when cornering. It was when engaging in corners at higher speeds that we could feel the technology working to keep us in a linear trajectory. In addition, the ground clearance of 140 mm — higher compared to several competitors — allows you to face the cold season more easily.
In terms of engine, our test version housed a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder. When fueled with 87 octane (regular) fuel, power rises to 227 horsepower at 5,000 rpm. A value that climbs to 250 horsepower if you opt for premium gasoline (93 octane).
The generous torque of 310 lb-ft allows for sharp acceleration since the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes place in 6.7 seconds. On the other hand, the staggering of the speeds is to be reviewed. Even though the performance is far from bad, the transition between first and second gear could be quicker.
Photo: Dominic Boucher
Furthermore, the GX and GS use a 2-litre engine that can be fitted with a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter is optional on board the GS models and standard on the GTs, while the 2.5 turbo is only available with posh versions. To have access to all-wheel drive, you must opt for a GS or GT model with one of the two 2.5-litre engines (with or without turbo).
In terms of fuel consumption, the 2.5-litre turbo isn’t the most frugal engine, since we averaged 9.4 L/100 km at the end of our test. For its part, Natural Resources Canada advances a mixed rating of 8.8 L/100 km.
A multimedia system to review
Placed at the top of the dashboard, the multimedia system incorporates an 8.8-inch screen. The presentation is uncluttered, but its interface needs to be perfected. You have to manipulate the knob located on the center console to navigate between the menus. Unfortunately, the submenu setup isn’t the most user-friendly and takes some getting used to.
As far as technologies are concerned, you will find Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while induction charging for mobile phones is conspicuous by its absence. The twelve-speaker Bose hi-fi system is of good quality. We recommend using the Bose Centerpoint feature to enhance sound quality.
Photo: Dominic Boucher
Gadget lovers, know that the MyMazda application allows you to control a range of vehicle parameters (such as remote start) and its status (eg maintenance to be performed).
In terms of safety, the Mazda3 obtained the Top Safety Pick 2023 distinction from the American organization Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Regarding driver assistance systems, Mazda uses i-Activsense active and passive safety features.
Of these, the lane-keeping assist is rather permissive, since it doesn’t always seem to be able to detect lines on the roadway. Alternatively, he vibrates the steering wheel and repositions the vehicle.
As for the adaptive cruise control, it works adequately. Acceleration and braking maneuvers are done gradually. Note, however, that the power steering, which allows semi-autonomous driving, is not offered.
In conclusion, the turbocharged Mazda3 Sport GT stands out for its driving pleasure, its high-performance all-wheel drive and its dynamics on the road. Its exhaustive range gives motorists a good number of possibilities and choices, while providing an interesting product, despite its shortcomings such as its high fuel consumption and its perfectible visibility.