2015 Mazda 3 hatchback

Pros: Sporty, nimble driving character; crisp manual shifter; well-assembled interior

Cons: Middling acceleration with 2.0-liter engine; tacked-on navigation screen can wash out in bright sunlight conditions; some complicated audio controls; tight rear-seat space

CG Says: After its redesign for 2014, Mazda 3 sees a minor shuffling of standard and available equipment for 2015. Also, a 6-speed manual transmission is available with the up-level 2.5-liter engine. The base engine (available in “i” models) is a 155-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder; “s” models get a 184-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder. Both engines now come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission; a 6-speed automatic is optional. The Mazda 3’s redesign last year brought a more-sophisticated platform, nicer interior materials, better fuel economy, and new technology features while maintaining the car’s trademark spunky, fun-to-drive personality. There are several compact cars that are a bit more practical and space-efficient, but few that are as engaging behind the wheel.

The Facts
Class Compact Car
Body Style(s) 4-door hatchback, 4-door sedan
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Mazda
Nation of Manufacture Japan
Base Prices i SV sedan: $16,945
i Sport sedan: $18,445
i Sport hatchback: $18,945
i Touring sedan: $19,595
i Touring hatchback: $20,095
i Grand Touring sedan: $22,745
i Grand Touring hatchback: $23,245
s Touring sedan: $23,845
s Touring hatchback: $24,345
s Grand Touring sedan: $25,045
s Grand Touring hatchback: $25,545

Base Engine
2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
155
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
29-30
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
41

Optional Engine
2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
184
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
25-29
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
37-40

2014 Mazda3 4D CGI (09)
2015 Mazda 3 sedan
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