2016 Mazda3 Hatchback Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

In the world of hatchbacks, the 2016 Mazda3 remains one of the top choices. The car’s versatile design and punchy performance will appeal to a lot of people. Drivers have grown to love the Mazda3’s nimble handling. Superb gas mileage is yet another key attribute. Meanwhile, high-tech driving aids such as Smart City Brake Support make the hatchback a secure daily-driver.

What’s new for 2016?
Buyers will be rewarded with even more standard components. All trims now come equipped with a rear-view camera. Unfortunately, the 3s Touring trim is no longer available with a stick-shift transmission.
 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2016 Mazda3 Hatchback – The Pros

1) Peppy Base Engine

Most drivers will be perfectly content with the base engine’s performance. The energetic 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine pumps out 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. When attempting to merge onto the freeway, 2016 Mazda3 hatchback will deliver brisk acceleration. While most people will choose the smooth-shifting automatic transmission, the six-speed manual gearbox will excite some buyers.

2) Strong 2.5-liter Engine

Some people will not be able to resist the larger 2.5-liter engine’s extra power. SkyActiv technology helps the engine to develop a fulfilling 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. When tested out on the track, the 2016 Mazda3 hatchback hit 60 mph in an impressive 7.3 seconds.

3) Great Gas Mileage

When it comes to fuel economy, the new Mazda3 is among the best in its class. The base model can return a rewarding 30 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. Even the 2.5-liter models can average an impressive 37 mpg on the highway. Mazda also offers a nifty regenerative braking system that further improves efficiency.

4) Athletic Handling

For the drivers who enjoy being behind the wheel of a sporty automobile, the 2016 Mazda3 hatchback will not leave them disappointed. The car’s poised road manners make it a blast to drive on a daily basis. This hatchback is a great alternative to a true spots car. Automotive publications constantly praise the steering system’s preciseness.

5) Cool Styling

The 2016 Mazda3 hatchback has a curvy physique that demands attention. The car’s muscular hood and signature grille help it to stand out. Featuring a sporty set of 18-inch wheels and daytime running lights, the 3s Grand Touring trim looks spectacular. Some of the eye-catching paint colors include Soul Red, Deep Crystal Blue, and Titanium Flash.

6) Versatile Interior

In terms of overall versatility, the 2016 Mazda3 hatchback is a gratifying choice. Most passengers will find the amount of rear-seat legroom to be satisfying. However, the hatchback truly shines when it comes to storage space. With a cargo capacity of more than 20 cubic feet, drivers can cram plenty of stuff in the back. Folding down the backseat increases storage space to a whopping 47.1 cubic feet.

7) Outstanding Impact Protection

Very few vehicles in its class offer better impact protection than the Mazda3 hatchback. Not only did the car earn a five-star safety rating, but it was also chosen as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. While a rear-view camera comes standard, buyers can also opt for quite a few advanced safety technologies.

8) Nice Standard Components

Plenty of nice goodies come standard of the 2016 Mazda3 hatchback. When commuting on a daily basis, the seven-inch touch-screen display will surely come in handy. Drivers will also find the blind-spot monitor to be extremely useful on highway trips. Some of the other standout components include heated side mirrors, a six-speaker sound system, key-less ignition, and cruise control.

9) Affordable

With a starting price of around $18,545, the base model is a very tempting option. Even the top-of-the-line 3s Grand Touring trim can be purchased for less than $25,000. Given the car’s significant number of features, budget-minded car shoppers should definitely give it a test drive.

10) Easy to Use Controls

Unlike some of today’s other new vehicles, the new Mazda3 Hatchback is not designed with any complicated controls. Even senior-citizens will not feel intimidated by the interior controls. Everything is relatively straightforward and easy to use.  

Reasons Not to Buy a 2016 Mazda3 Hatchback – The Cons

1) All-Wheel Drive Is Not Offered

All versions of the hatchback send power to the front wheel. Mazda does not currently offer an AWD option. This could present a problem for the drivers who need to travel in the snow.

2) Cabin Is Not Whisper-Quiet

When traveling at highway speeds, passengers will hear a fair amount of wind noise. Although this may not be a big issue, driver should not expect to experience complete silence. Furthermore, the optional 18-inch tires will slightly elevate the amount of road noise.

3) Less Interior Room Than Some Competitors

Extremely tall passengers may desire a tad bit more legroom in the back. This is especially true when taking an out-of-town road trip.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Two of the main rivals include the Ford Focus and the Hyundai Elantra GT. In terms of driving excitement, the 2016 Mazda3 Hatchback is hard to beat. It excels in the most important categories. In comparison to the Elantra GT hatchback, the Mazda3’s interior is a bit more refined.

Conclusion:

The new Mazda3 Hatchback is a top pick that keeps getting better with each passing year. Mazda’s highly acclaimed SkyActiv technology enables the car to offer a great blend of performance and efficiency. While the base model is remarkably affordable, all of the trims benefit from an excellent safety rating.