2016 Mazda3
New for 2016
The 2016 Mazda3 gains even more standard features, with a rearview camera now standard across all trims. The 3i Sport trim replaces the SV trim as the lineups base model, while a manual transmission is no longer offered on 3s Touring models.
There, We Said It
We're just going to come right out and say it: the 2016 Mazda3 is one of the best looking and well-designed cars we've ever seen. Sure, we might be a little biased, but the Mazda3 doesn't need our words to win you over. No, the 2016 Mazda3 gets by on its own merit, thanks to its nimble handling, fun-to-drive nature, and everyday practicality.
Is it the right compact car for you? Let's find out.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2016 Mazda3 is powered by one of two engines, depending on trim level selected. The base engine consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. Power is efficiently sent to the front-wheels through a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic.
Higher trim level Mazda3 models get a boost in power, courtesy of a larger 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. 3s Touring models get this engine mated to standard six-speed automatic, while 3s GT models comes with manual standard and the automatic as an option.
Fuel economy is where the 2016 Mazda3 truly shines. Sedan models powered by the 2.0-liter engine return an EPA estimated 34 mpg combined (30 city/41 highway) with the automatic transmission.* When mated to the manual, sedan models earn an equally impressive 33 mpg combined (29 city/41 highway).*
EPA-estimates for the 2.5-liter sit at 25 mpg in the city, 37 mpg on the highway, and a remarkable 29 mpg combined when mated to the manual (in both hatchback and sedan form).* For the six-speed automatic, the 2.5-liter engine returns an estimated 32 mpg combined (28 city/39 highway).*
There is also an even more efficient “i-ELOOP” system available to 3s models that captures and redistributes braking energy. With this particular setup, the 3s returns 33 mpg combined (29 city/40 highway) with the automatic.*
Features and Trims
The 2016 Mazda3 starts at $17,845** and is available in four-door sedan and hatchback body styles.
For 2016, the entry point to the Mazda3 lineup is now the 3i Sport, which is only available as a sedan. Highlights include 16-inch steel wheels, power accessories, and a six-speaker sound system, complete with USB port, an auxiliary input, HD Radio, and smartphone-enabled Internet radio. Rounding out the 3i Sport's already impressive list of standard features are a 7-inch touchscreen display with knob-based controller and a rearview camera, which is now standard throughout the lineup.
Of course, drivers looking for even more features are encouraged to explore the 3i Touring trim, which provides an extra level of creature comforts such as heated side mirrors, a rear spoiler, and keyless ignition/entry. Likewise, 3i Grand Touring models up the ante even further with standard navigation and dual-zone climate control.
The 3s Touring and 3s Grand Touring trims complete the Mazda3 lineup. The 3s Touring adds 18-inch alloy wheels, LED taillights, and an impressive segment-first head-up (HUD) display that provides important vehicle information. Naturally, the top-of-the-line 3s Grand Touring outdoes all other trims by including adaptive bi-xenon headlights, a sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and upgraded leather upholstery.
Design
The 2016 Mazda3 is designed to combine different likes and driver needs. The wheelbase is longer than the previous model, and the car is wider and features a lower stance, imparting an edgier/sportier look. The Mazda3 also adopts Mazda’s latest Kodo design language, which harmonizes the car’s sleek new appearance with other models in the Mazda lineup, such as the Mazda CX-5, the Mazda6 sedan, and the all-new Mazda CX-3 compact crossover. Overall, the execution is flawless, lending greater depth and appeal to the 3, while adding to the car’s premium image.
Inside, Mazda has created a well-designed, intuitive driver dashboard. The design is simple, contemporary, and sure to be a talking point with passengers. The driver's seating position is excellent, with comfortable, sporty seats to boot. Head and leg room is very good in both the front and the back of the car, and you can adequately carry adults in the rear seats without causing discomfort. The hatchback features a generous 20.2-cubic feet behind the rear seat, too.
Safety
Good looks will only get you so far, which is why the 2016 Mazda3 comes well-equipped with a veritable arsenal of standard safety features. These include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags. A blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alerts comes standard on the 3i Touring trim level and above. For your convenience and safety, a rearview camera is now standard across the lineup.
Meanwhile, Mazda3 s Grand Touring models deliver further driver assistance and safety technology by including a lane departure warning system, forward collision warning, and Mazda's Smart City Brake Support, which is a collision mitigation system that can automatically brake the car to a full stop at low speeds when a collision is deemed imminent and no action is taken by the driver.
Bottom Line
Sporting good looks, excellent fuel economy, and class-leading technologies, the 2016 Mazda3 may be priced like a compact car, but it sure doesn't look, drive, or feel like one.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact or visit us at Heritage Mazda Bel Air, Catonsville & Towson today.
*EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
**Starting at $18,545 MSRP plus $820 destination (Alaska $865) for 2016 Mazda3 i Sport 5-Door with manual transmission. Mazda3 s Grand Touring 5-Door model shown with 2.5L engine, automatic transmission and Technology Package, $29,095 MSRP plus $820 destination (Alaska $865). MSRP excludes taxes, title and license fees.
Image: Mazda