2021 Mazda3 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
Mazda has established a solid foundation of delivering vehicles that offer more than their price tag might suggest. The 2021 Mazda3 is no exception, with the hatchback and sedan versions boasting a sleek design inside and out - from comfortable seating to technology features made for today's drivers. Whether you're looking for performance or comfort, this car delivers an enjoyable experience like few others in its class can provide; all at an accessible value point sure to suit your budget betterment needs.
What's New for 2021?
The Mazda3 has seen some improvements for 2021, including an available power sunroof and updated engine options. Standard on the Preferred trim is a power sunroof; however, navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio are no longer included in this package. Customers wanting these features will need to upgrade to the Premium trim level which offers them along with its upgraded engines – either 2.0-liter or turbocharged - that take performance of the vehicle up another notch.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Mazda3 – The Pros
1. Multiple Engine Choices
Mazda3 drivers can choose from a selection of powerful engine configurations - starting with the 2.0 Sedan, and topping out at two turbo models that offer superior performance capabilities! Generating up to 227 horses & 310 pound-feet of torque respectively, these remarkable engines will provide an extra kick for those who crave dynamic speed and power.
2. Choose a Preferred Configuration
When it comes to reliability and practicality, look no further than the hatchback. Its 20 cubic feet of cargo volume will provide you with enough capacity for all your adventures without sacrificing any comfort or style! Get ready to maximize convenience while also enjoying a generous height in the back - perfect for storage. The sedan is not far behind either with its 13.2 cubic feet still offering plenty of space where necessary; satisfy anything you need on life's journey.
3. Looks Sporty
The Mazda3 has a decidedly athletic appeal. It features LED headlights, an eye-catching matte finish grille and sleek 16" wheels that are just the start of its style statement. Going even further with upgrades such as signature LED headlamps, turn signal side mirrors, glossy black front grille & rear spoiler plus glistening 18” alloys in black - you can stay ahead of the curve while giving off some serious futuristic vibes thanks to this car's aerodynamic shape.
4. Feels Sporty, Too
The Mazda3 doesn't necessarily need tons of horsepower to feel agile. It's close to the ground and relatively compact, and it has a six-speed sport automatic transmission. The car feels lively, especially if one gets a turbo model. Select trims have paddle shifters on their steering wheels, and using these can be particularly exciting whether someone is using his/her car on an open highway or just when running errands around town.
5. Seats Feel Premium
The seats in the Mazda3 are supportive and comfortable. Mid-level trims are upgraded with leatherette sport seats that look upscale. Heated front seats start to be found at the Preferred level, and with this trim, there is also power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support and a memory function. The Premium Plus trims, which automatically come with 2.5 turbo engines, are enhanced even more. They feature perforated leather sport seats that look refined and sophisticated.
6. So Many Safety Components
For being such an economical choice, the Mazda3 has a lot of driver-assist technology. Even the base models come with adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and systems that can warn drivers when they're inadvertently departing their lanes. Sometimes, the car can actually steer itself back into position, and it can also hit the brakes if it seems like the driver is about to hit the car in front of it. The Select level is the first one in which blind spot and rear cross traffic monitoring are included.
7. Infotainment System is Impressive
This Mazda comes with an 8.8-inch center display regardless of what trim is selected. In the lowest trim of the sedan, there's HD Radio, Pandora radio, and Bluetooth. All of the other Mazda3 trims are equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. At the Premium level, there are some noticeable improvements to the system. The car is upgraded with 12 speakers and Centerpoint 2 technology, and it has SiriusXM Satellite Radio and navigation.
8. Everything is Convenient
The Mazda's cabin might not seem like it has as many features as some other models have have, but it might surprise some consumers. Everything works together perfectly in the Mazda3, and there are numerous storage components so that things can be safely tucked away when not needed. The car can come with a dual-zone climate system so both the front passenger and drive can choose their desired temperatures, and it has controls mounted on the steering wheel so people can keep their hands where they belong. Advanced trims have Homelink technology built into their rearview mirrors to take the place of separate garage door openers.
9. All-Wheel Drive Improves Traction
Mazda3 stands out from the competition with its available all-wheel drive for most trims, providing increased stability and safety to drivers on rough roads. Armed with superior traction in any weather condition, this car is a safe bet against slipping tires when you're looking for sure footing.
10. A "Smart" Key
The Select trim and anything higher come equipped with Mazda's advanced keyless entry system. With this system, keys can stay in someone's bag or pocket while he/she unlocks the car and starts the engine. The reason that this is possible is because the car can detect the presence of its key fob. If the key fob is in close proximity to the car, a door can be unlocked by the driver simply touching its handle. Push button start is on every model of the Mazda3.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Mazda3 – The Cons
1. Hatchback Doesn't Have Great Sightlines
Due to the shape of the roof in the hatchback, some people might have trouble seeing behind them. Unlike SUVs that have more open cabins and unlike sedans that have trunks that hardly block anything, hatchbacks present some obstacles in terms of sightlines. Fortunately, the Mazda3 comes standard with a rearview camera that can be very useful while backing up.
2. Smaller Back Seat
Leg room in the second row of the car is just over 35 inches. If anyone is traveling with adults in the back, those passengers might start to feel cramped after a short period of time. This would be especially true if three adults ever try to squeeze together back there.
3. Limited Exterior Colors
There aren't many choices of paint colors with this car. The 2.0 Sedan is only offered with a silver or black, and the next level up gets the addition of white as an exterior color. It comes with a catch, though. "Snowflake White Pearl Mica" costs more than $400 extra. At the Select level, there are a few more choices, like red, blue, and gray. While the blue hue can be chosen for no additional cost, the gray costs $495 and the red costs $595.
4. No Seat Ventilation
Even if one gets a Premium Plus model, the seats don't come with ventilation. Having heated and ventilated seats is becoming more common, and some people may notice that this is lacking in the Mazda.
How it Stacks Up to the Competition:
2021 Mazda3 vs 2021 Honda Civic
For those looking to experience the luxury of a higher-end vehicle, but within their budget, look no further than the Mazda3. This sleek model offers cutting edge features such as an expansive infotainment screen and up-to date safety systems all at an impressively affordable price point. Furthermore, consumers can customize it with three engine choices across various trim options making for plenty of flexibility in personalizing their perfect ride.
2021 Mazda3 vs 2021 Toyota Corolla
In the horsepower department, Mazda wins over Toyota in a matchup of their compact cars. The turbo version of the Mazda3 far outperforms the Corolla, and its base engine manages to edge out the base engine of the Corolla. In addition, there is slightly more second-row leg room in a Mazda3 than in a Corolla.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to experience the luxury of a higher-end vehicle, but within their budget, look no further than the Mazda3. This sleek model offers cutting edge features such as an expansive infotainment screen and up-to date safety systems all at an impressively affordable price point. Furthermore, consumers can customize it with three engine choices across various trim options making for plenty of flexibility in personalizing their perfect ride.
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