2026 MAZDA3 SEDAN

by Heritage Mazda Bel Air, Catonsville & Towson

Overview

One of the hallmarks of the Mazda3 sedan is that it's fun to drive, and the 2026 edition of this lively compact sedan doesn't disappoint. The Mazda3 is as spirited in its looks as it is in its accoutrements, offering drivers quite a few premium features while still maintaining the cool and comfortable reputation of the Mazda brand. Sometimes it's tough to retain the fun-to-drive aspect of a sedan when the focus is on comfort and a little luxury, but Mazda manages to meet this challenge with flying colors with its friendly and feisty car. The Mazda3 is terrifically fun with just enough refinement to keep it respectable.

Quick Specs

Starting MSRP – $24,550
Engine – SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 DOHC 4-cylinder with VVT and Cylinder Deactivation
Power – 191 horsepower; 186 lb.-ft. of torque
Drivetrain – Front-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive available
EPA Estimated MPG – 27 in the city; 37 on the highway
Transmission – SKYACTIV®-DRIVE 6-speed electronically controlled sport automatic

What's New for 2026?

For the 2026 edition of the Mazda3 sedan, the company introduces Alexa Built-in as a standard feature on certain trims and also makes the eight-speaker audio system standard and available on the base model. The size of the infotainment screen on some models has been increased, and some trims have received a 360-degree view monitor, as well as various black visual enhancements to the exterior.

Real World Performance

For the automaker’s team of engineers, it’s not just about getting from one place to another, but about enjoying the ride on the way. That's why the 2026 Mazda3 features a tried and true engine that toes the perfect balance between efficiency and performance. The standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine produces up to 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, which is more than enough power to navigate traffic and merge onto highways with ease. For drivers who demand even more power, the new SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbocharged engine produces up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on 93 octane fuel. Paired with the SKYACTIV®-DRIVE 6-speed electronically controlled sport automatic transmission, you'll get to harness every bit of that power while you're cruising around town.

SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS with G-Vectoring Control Plus manages power delivery and braking, so you never have to worry if you get a little aggressive behind the wheel. The Mazda3 will smooth out your inputs and create increased confidence. If you need more traction than can be offered by the standard front-wheel drive, the available i-Activ® All-wheel drive may speak to you. By sending the power to the wheels with the most traction, this intelligent system can give you more capability than you've come to expect from a sedan.

Key Features

Interior Comfort and Technology

8.8-inch center display
Mazda Connect infotainment system
Apple CarPlay integration
Android Auto integration
In-car Wi-Fi hotspot capability
Push-button start
Remote keyless illuminated entry
Two front USB-C inputs
Bluetooth connectivity
Alexa built-in (some trims)
Power sliding glass moonroof (some trims)
Heated front seats (some trims)
Eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat (some trims)
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (some trims)

Safety and Driver Assistance

Mazda radar cruise control with Stop & Go
Smart brake support
Lane departure warning
Lane-keep assist
Driver attention alert
High beam control
Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
Vehicle exit warning and rear seat alert
Mazda Connected Services
Rearview camera
Rain-sensing windshield wipers

Alternative Options

If you’re looking for something with a little more space, the Mazda CX-30 offers the same well-mannered handling of a sedan with the utility of an SUV. Still not enough space? The CX-90 is a full-size SUV with enough room for the whole family without sacrificing the style and performance of a Mazda.

For more information about the all-new Mazda Mazda3 or to see what else Mazda has to offer, contact us today.

Image Credit: Mazda