2026 Mazda 3 Sedan Review | The Best-Looking Compact Car Just Got Better!
Refreshed Exterior Design
Mazda keeps it classy with the 2026 model. While the overall
shape remains the same, this year brings a refined front grille, updated
LED lighting signatures, and a new alloy wheel design across several
trims. The new color option — Zircon Sand Metallic — joins the palette,
giving it an earthy, luxury-inspired tone.
The 2026 Mazda 3 Sedan still looks like it belongs in a much
more expensive segment. Its coupe-like silhouette, slim headlights, and
sculpted body lines continue to make it one of the best-looking cars in its
class.
Powertrain & Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 Mazda 3 carries over the proven 2.5-liter
Skyactiv-G engine, producing 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque.
It’s smooth, responsive, and refined—ideal for both urban commutes and spirited
weekend drives.
The optional i-Activ AWD system returns, making the
Mazda 3 one of the few compact sedans in the U.S. to offer all-wheel drive.
Fuel economy stays impressive, with up to 38 mpg highway
for FWD models and slightly lower for AWD variants.
No turbo engine this year on the sedan (currently limited to
the hatchback), but the naturally aspirated engine offers more than enough pep
for most drivers.
Interior, Comfort & Tech
Step inside, and the 2026 Mazda 3 continues to punch above
its weight. The cabin design is clean, elegant, and upscale. Materials feel
premium, especially in Preferred and Premium trims, which feature
leatherette or full leather upholstery and high-quality soft-touch surfaces.
Big news for 2026 — the infotainment screen has grown to
10.25 inches, and it’s now fully touchscreen-capable when parked, while
still using Mazda’s rotary controller when driving. Wireless Apple CarPlay
and Android Auto come standard across all trims, along with wireless
charging.
Higher trims include a 12-speaker Bose audio system,
a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, and dual-zone climate control. It's
compact luxury without the luxury price.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Mazda continues to prioritize safety. The 2026 Mazda 3 comes
standard with its i-Activsense suite, which includes:
- Adaptive
Cruise Control
- Lane
Keep Assist
- Forward
Collision Warning with Auto Braking
- Rear
Cross-Traffic Alert
- Blind
Spot Monitoring
A new feature for 2026 is the available 360-degree camera
system, previously only found on Mazda’s larger SUVs. It’s a nice touch for
parking and urban driving.
The Mazda 3 consistently earns Top Safety Pick+ ratings from the IIHS and high NHTSA scores — giving peace of mind along with its good looks.
Trim Levels & Pricing
The 2026 Mazda 3 Sedan is available in the following trims:
- 2.5
S Select Sport
- 2.5
S Preferred
- 2.5
S Carbon Edition
- 2.5
S Premium
Pricing starts around $25,000, with top-trim Premium
AWD models pushing just above $31,000.
Compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla, Hyundai
Elantra, or Honda Civic, the Mazda 3 delivers a more premium feel,
sharper handling, and arguably the best styling in the segment.
The 2026 Mazda 3 Sedan may not reinvent the wheel, but it
absolutely perfects it. With refined looks, engaging
performance, upgraded tech, and great value, it remains a top
choice for drivers who want more than just basic transportation.
If you’re bored with beige and looking for something that
stirs the soul without emptying your wallet, the Mazda 3 should be at the top
of your test drive list.
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