2019 Mazda Mazda3 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

For years, the Mazda3 has been considered by many people to be one of the more fun-to-drive compact cars on the street. To keep the Mazda3 from falling behind the competition, Mazda has given it a complete redesign for 2019. Not only does the all-new Mazda3 boast a more curvaceous look, but it also comes loaded with upgraded technologies. Let's check out the pros and cons of the new 2019 Mazda3.

What's New for 2019?

You'll find a number of new features on the 2019 Mazda3, including an improved infotainment system and a more powerful premium sound system. Mazda has also tweaked the engine lineup.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Mazda Mazda3 – The Pros

1. More Performance for Your Money

Previously only available on the upper trims, Mazda's larger 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine now comes standard. This means you'll be getting even more performance for your money. Although Mazda has yet to confirm the engine's official output, sources estimate it'll produce around 186 horsepower. Standard automatic stop/start technology has helped boost fuel economy. Expect to get around 27 mpg in city traffic and 36 mpg on the highway. Luckily, you can avoid the extra expense of premium unleaded fuel.

2. All-New SkyActiv-X Will Be Offered

Mazda has spent a great deal of time and effort into developing its all-new SkyActiv-X engine. An advanced ignition system and a high compression ratio will help this cutting-edge engine to conserve a lot of fuel. In fact, it should put the 2019 Mazda3 among the most efficient cars in the class. Don’t be surprised to see a combined rating of nearly 40 mpg. Although the total output for the new SkyActiv-X engine has yet to be revealed, anticipate it to be very competitive.

3. All-Wheel Drive Now Offered

Traditionally, the Mazda3 has only been available with front-wheel drive. For 2019, Mazda will finally offer its popular compact car with an AWD system. This is a major plus for the drivers who must endure rough winters. No longer will Mazda3 fans be forced to choose a rival compact car. Because the i-Activ AWD system automatically adapts to the varying road conditions, drivers don’t need to press any buttons. Furthermore, fuel economy doesn’t take a major hit with all-wheel drive.

4. Will Still Deliver Sporty Handling

Like the previous generation, the redesigned 2019 Mazda3 is engineered to be one of the sportiest cars in the class. It has the agility of a genuine sports sedan. To ensure this car retains its athletic nature, Mazda decided to equip it with a standard G-Vectoring Plus system. This technology further enhances handling around corners. Some of the same suspension components were also carried over from last year’s model. A larger set of 18-inch performance tires are found on the upper trims.

5. More Curvaceous Exterior Styling

The Mazda3’s sharp exterior styling has always been one of its biggest attractions. Although the new model looks a bit different, it’s still a genuine head turner. There are a greater number of curves on the new model’s body. While the front fascia is highlighted by a striking grille and slim headlamps, the rear fascia looks especially sleek. All-new wheel designs also arrive for 2019. Some of the same popular colors will be offered, include Soul Red Crystal Metallic.

6. More Exciting Stereo Systems Available

If you’re a music fan, you’ll be delighted by the 2019 Mazda3. Even the base model comes standard with an upgraded stereo system, which now boasts a total of eight speakers. While the standard stereo system is fulfilling, there’s no denying the available 12-speaker Bose audio system’s impressive sound quality. By placing the subwoofer outside the interior, Bose was able to optimize bass production. All of your passengers will be able to rock out.

7. Improved MazdaConnect Infotainment System

Many drivers consider a car’s infotainment system to be the focal point of the interior. This year, the 2019 Mazda3 comes standard with an updated MazdaConnect interface. It includes a larger 8.8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone support. By placing the display above the dash, Mazda seeks to minimize driving distractions. Sharper graphics and a better menu structure also help make MazdaConnect more rewarding to use. Meanwhile, the interface’s controller knob is now easier to reach from the driver’s seat.

8. Loaded with New Safety Technologies

Several worthwhile safety innovations are available for the 2019 Mazda3. You can take full advantage of the new Driver Monitoring system. By monitoring factors such as eye movement, this system is able to detect when you’re getting sleepy. Mazda has also introduced a new Cruising and Traffic Support system. It’s designed to make driving in congestion less nerve-racking by providing steering and braking assistance. Front cross-traffic warning has also been added to the Mazda3’s list of driver-assist technologies.

9. Revised Active Driving Display

When behind the wheel, some drivers develop a habit of looking down at the speedometer. To help prevent this issue, Mazda offers an Active Driving Display. It projects the gauge cluster’s information directly onto the windshield. While the previous Active Driving Display was helpful, the new version is even better. Improved fonts make it easier to see. Along with the Active Driving Display comes Traffic Sign Recognition. When traveling, this feature helps you to avoid speeding and missing road exits.

10. More Comfortable to Drive

Drivers who do a lot of commuting will appreciate the new Mazda3’s more comfortable interior design. The new front seats provide more thigh and back support. Although ventilation isn’t available, you’ll find the heated seat cushions to be relaxing during the winter.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Mazda Mazda3 – The Cons

1. Still Does Not Offer Class-Leading Passenger Room

Although the new 2019 Mazda3 may be slightly larger, it’s still a small car. While tall drivers won’t have any complaints, folks sitting in the rear may desire more knee space. Rivals, such as the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla, prove to be a better choice for a family of adults. If interior room is a concern for your family, consider stepping up to the midsize 2019 Mazda6.

2. More Expensive Price

While the new Mazda3 is an improvement, it demands more of your hard-earned money. Prices start at nearly $21,900, which makes it roughly $2,900 more expensive than before. This could be an issue for the drivers who have a monthly budget to maintain. Furthermore, opting for the automatic transmission will further increase the Mazda3’s total cost. By comparison, the 2019 Kia Forte and 2019 Nissan Sentra have a starting price of less than $18,000.

3. Unknown Reliability of New SkyActiv-X Engine

The Mazda3’s all-new SkyActiv-X engine has the potential to be a ground breaker. For good reason, a lot of drivers are excited by the engine’s fuel savings. However, we don’t know the long-term reliability of this highly advanced engine. It features a number of sophisticated technologies. Remember, Mazda’s powertrain warranty expires after 60,000 miles.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

One of the Mazda3’s key rivals is the 2019 Honda Civic. In terms of overall driving excitement, these two compact cars are a very close match. However, expect the Mazda3 to offer even more precise handling. You also can’t get the Civic with an all-wheel-drive system.

The 2019 Toyota Corolla is yet another one of the Mazda3’s closest competitors. Most people consider the Mazda3 to be far more entertaining to drive. There’s simply not enough power underneath the Corolla’s hood. Like the Honda Civic, the Corolla lacks the availability of all-wheel drive.

You may also be considering the 2019 Nissan Sentra. While the Sentra offers a turbocharged engine on its upper trims, the standard four-cylinder engine leaves a lot to be desired. A more powerful standard engine gives the new Mazda3 a clear advantage.

Conclusion

There’s a lot to like about the redesigned 2019 Mazda3. For starters, it’s very entertaining to drive. You’ll love the Mazda3’s responsive handling. Appearance upgrades, such as the available 18-inch alloy wheels, make this car look even more eye-catching. While the Mazda3 may not provide the most spacious cabin in the segment, interior comfort has improved.

When it comes to technology, the new 2019 Mazda3 ranks among the class leaders. Features, such as the Active Driving Display, are not even offered on most of the other cars in the segment. You can also take advantage of advanced safety technologies like the semi-autonomous Cruising and Traffic Support system.