2021 Mazda3 Hatchback

This model is available in six trims: 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Premium, 2.5 Turbo, and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. Starting outfits for the group include a black front fascia and rear roof spoiler, LED lamps, power mirrors with turn-signal indicators, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The aluminum-alloy wheels reach 16 to 18 inches in diameter, whereas topcoats range from Deep Crystal Blue and Snowflake White Pearl mica tints to Machine Gray and Soul Red Crystal metallic hues. Meanwhile, available accents include signature LED lighting, memory mirror settings, and black inserts for the front air dam and grille.

The Mazda3 hatchback runs with a Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission, with your choice of sport automatic or overdrive manual configuration. Supplementing these units are features such as advanced direct injection, G-Vectoring Control Plus technology, and variable valve timing, all technical traits with ample potency. In fact, these systems help return an output of 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The Turbo trims swap the base engine for a 2.5-liter turbocharged unit with dynamic pressure and readouts that tip the scale at 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque.

This compact cruiser pairs with a front-wheel-drive setup, though all-wheel drive is available on select trims. What's more, you get to snag smooth performance stats thanks to accessories such as all-season tires, four-wheel brake assist, and a suspension system with MacPherson strut front and torsion-beam-axle rear layout. In addition, the Mazda3 hatchback returns an impressive driving range. You can expect up to 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Basics for the cabin include cloth sport seats, a cargo area cover, push-button start, and steering wheel controls. You can also enjoy advanced keyless entry, mobile app connected services, and an 8.8-inch color screen with integrated Bluetooth audio streaming, HD radio, and voice command. Plus, the hatch design makes it possible to haul 20.1 cubic feet of groceries, luggage, and other personal items with ease. Additional upfits range from dual-zone climate control and a heated steering wheel to a power-sliding glass moonroof and black or red leather seating. An aluminum speaker grille, Bose audio system, and navigation display are also available.

The 2021 Mazda3 excels in the safety department as well. It couples with 911 automatic emergency notification, front knee air bags, dynamic stability and traction control, and a fob-situated panic button. State-of-the-art technologies such as a driver attention alert, lane departure warning, radar cruise control, and smart brake support further enhance the suite. Higher trims pack a few extras, from a color head-up display and high-beam control to traffic jam assist and sign recognition software. With such a decked-out package, it's no surprise this model received high praise from two reputable organizations: a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a Top Safety Pick Plus title from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.