I've had a 21 Turbo sedan since December 2020 and it's such a fantastic car to drive. The power is effortless, great design, and it's very fuel efficient if you don't have a lead foot.
January 21 for my '21 premium hatch, and agree with everything you said. Is it perfect? No, but I don't think such an animal exists. The Mazda 3 turbo is perfect for me right now.
This Mazda is absolutely fantastic. The fit and finish blows anything in it's class out of the water (even better than the Integra). The Integra reminds me of the Hyundai's and Kia's with everything being hard plastic. The Mazda has soft touch materials everywhere you would want it and hard plastics where it should be. This Mazda is an entry level luxury grand tourer and it does it phenomenally well. People need to stop comparing it to vehicles it isn't designed to compete with.
I own a Mazda 626 Sedan in Prestige Silver Metallic colour, 1990 model ... bought brand new in Melbourne, Australia as a gift from my father for my 18th birthday. He paid $ 32,000 Australian dollars for it back then! It's now 32 years old, has done 500,000 kilometres (310,000 miles) and l continue to drive it daily. Has never failed me. Unbelievable car. I cannot part with it. My first and so far, only car ...!! It still looks like new and has always been outside for its entire 32 years, so far. People cant believe it! Yesterday l purchased the 2022 Mazda 3 Sedan in Sonic Silver Metallic colour. I am so excited. I am keeping my 626 and will never part with it and intend to drive both cars.
I just got the Mazda 3 hatchback with the naturally 2.5aspirated and I love it. It is a joy to drive. Did not take long to adjust with the rotary dial.
Don’t understand why people goes crazy on intégra/Civic they are so HUGE In trued the mazda3 sedan and the civic si back to back and to me other than the manual on the si, the Mazda was miles ahead fun wise for a sedan, the civic si was such a huge disappointment for how much it get hyped, felt like a gigantic boat to drive. The Mazda gt is a well rounded car, refined, big enough, fun, economic, low price
Nice video, I had test drive last year and felt really connected to this car. Finally I just booked my Mazda 3 Turbo hatch and hope I could get it next month!
I think Mazda vs Acura is not a one > other, but it's a matter of taste. Some people like power and don't care about handling. People that like handling and don't care about power are equally valid.
This literally seems like a no brainer if you're looking for a fun, powerful, reliable, automatic car with AWD. This ticks all of the boxes to be better than the Integra. I have no idea why the Integra even exists? It a rebadged Civic.
Best car in the segment. I just installed Cork Sport lowering springs on mine and the OEM roof racks and Thule Bike racks for my bikes. The car looks incredible sitting low.
Did you try to use the sport mode ? Sport mode plus manual shifting is how that car was intended to move and get best speed enthusiasts experience ! Try all the runs again specially from standstill to see the difference. Also try sport mode manually controlled to get around and it will be like a grand tourismo car
Same spec that I was looking at this weekend. So sharp looking, and drove so well with the power. Dealer insisted on a markup though and I had to bail. At this point I'm going to just drop to the fwd preferred and forgo the turbo. Maybe even go the hatchback route. The NA drivetrain might be a little better for some of the long road trips I have planned, and I'll feel better driving on gravel and dirt roads if I don't spend the extra $. Which is a shame because I really like this car so much. This market has just beaten me down, and not having a garage in the NE makes some costs even harder to justify. And I really can't bring myself to go the CUV/SUV route
Honestly? If I hadnt test driven the turbo (tester was a sedan, I bought a hatch) I would never have stretched for the extra cost. I mean I'm happy I did now, but the normally aspirated 186 hp version felt plenty quick to me, especially in the just above base FWD sedan I test drove. It's still the highest hp/tq base engine of any compact car, so should be plenty for most people. Just get the lighter FWD version unless you think you must have AWD. I can't help but wonder how my turbo hatch would feel with less weight.
@@jbm0866 I was thinking the same thing about fwd too. I'm waiting until after tax season. If there's a turbo option without markup available at that point I'll be back at it. It's a principal thing. I can afford the markup, it just gets under my skin knowing I paid for it. I'm sure after a year of driving I'd have put it out of mind. Probably.
@@markcoopers1930 If you go with AWD you'll definitely want the turbo. It's a good AWD system, but adds a bit too much weight to the naturally aspirated engine. The 2WD version definitely felt lighter on it's feet, and the base engine is just fine in that config..probably even better with a manual. (Didnt get to test one)
I have to add to Kirk’s answers to that first question about what’s new is that the turn signals and reverse light are no longer the four LEDs and it’s now has a housing cover and fades in and out when blinking like the CX-30. Also for the last question, I found that their driver’s assist package and features have become a bit more aggressive that there were times I found myself fighting against it but at the same time it kept me from hitting the barrier on the highway because I was a bit distracted observing a tailgater on my ass.
Been eyeing the 3 sedan turbo for some time. Currently have a cx5 and want to get back into a compact sedan again. I'm interested to seeing the new integra and see how it drives. I'm leaning more towards the integra as it seems to have more back seat room and hoping it'll be a smoother ride, with the adaptive suspension, than the mazda.
Teat drove the integra Aspec trim and it seemed slow to me. 20 mins of test drive and I could not find anything great to say about it. It is an OK car. I would not spend 35k on it to be frank
While I hate the shiny black plastic in my Mazda3 and my prior Mazda3, I can't say that I have a single scratch on any of it after a combined 140,000 miles. I am not sure either what I am doing right or what apparently every reviewer is doing wrong.
Thanks for talking about the driver assist features. It's one of my main shopping points now that I'm getting older, but can't afford that nice home close to the office. I feel that gets overlooked in many other car reviews.
Jury's still out on Integra sound system. A Volvo XC40 sound system is not the same as the one on an XC90. You can't get a Mercedes GLA with the same sound system as a GLS.
I'd like to see the practicality of Integra hatchback vs Mazda3 hatchback (what can fit in the backseats/cargo area/ cargo area with backseats folded down?)
I don’t think the new 3 hatchback can carry as much as my 2015. I have had all four summer tires/wheels, a 55” tv, my Xbox and ps4, four bags of clothes, two duffel bags, a couple of small boxes and me in the car.
The Integra will carry way more. It's 5 inches longer than the Civic and the Civic is already a good bit longer than the 3. The 3 is a true compact car. The Integra is barely in the segment. Personally I prefer the smaller options, but space is an easy win for Acura.
Love my Mazda 3 turbo hatchback what a amazing car so fast and the awd is killer. And talk about Quality and luxury it don’t get much better in this buddy! Great review my friend
I still laugh at ppl that complain about the torsion beam. Unless ur gonna go to the race track, u will barely even notice the torsion beam. For daily drivers, there’s barely any difference any regular person will even notice. Edit: 17:40 6-peed. Interesting…
Currently driving the 2017 Sedan and it’s been a terrific car. Would like to upgrade to the newer turbo. Of course if the Mazda 6 replacement comes out with the 6 cylinder may have to go that direction…
2:15 this hatchback shown has early gen4 tail lights which aren't as bright and have fewer diodes than 2022 both in the tail light red circle and the signal. They also lack dimming turn signals. It's almost the same car but showing last year's hatch with the stingy diode tail lights is misleading. I find it so odd that you had disconnect issues with Android auto, my 2022 Mazda3 AWD GT has never done that. I'm using an Xperia 1ii though. I like the review! I'm happy you reviewed one of these. Oh btw, it has traffic assist with steering assist under 60km/h it'll steer and keep you centered in your lane but only up to 60k (about 40mph?) After that it's just the vibrate/shove you back thing.
Thanks for the added info! I have a pixel 6 pro. Still not sure why it kicks me out randomly. Also I hope Mazda enables full speed lane centering soon. Cheers.
@@mezzb so it seems like it doesn't like some phones? But others it's cool with. My Xperia 1 ii is a model from 2021, not the early 1ii from 2020 but the upgraded hardware that Sony sold in 21. I'll have to try another phone and see what happens. So when you have issues is it any situation in particular? Or it just randomly disconnects?
Greatest thing about automobiles? Choices! What's great for me, may not be for you. Here's the key to everything.... If what you buy, puts the biggest smile on your face, you've chosen correctly! That's all that matters.
It looks like they've removed the USB port above the cup holders. That's great! But if they've simply removed it and you need to plug your phone into the ports in the center console, that's an unfortunate step backwards. I have a 2019 Mazda 3 and you're spot on about the adaptive cruise control. It seems to only have full throttle and full brake. It's not terrible on the highway, and I use it all the time in town, but it is not comfortable if you're used to other systems.
Kirk I have a 2012 mazda3 and love my car but I want to get a modern Mazda. Which do you think would be a better buy? Mazda3 turbo vs Miata? I’m a young urban professional and want my next car to be fun and a Mazda
just ordered this exact car last tuesday.. im trading my 16 mazda 3 in for more power. i love these cars... and so the wait begins. 3-5 months for a factory order
One of the best lookers, just missing independent rear, 6 speed manual, back vents and ports, touch screen, adjustable dampers. Newer auto dog or 8 speed.
Agree with all your points except the Touch screen. It really is overrated and kind of passe, I had to get used to dial only on a BMW X3 and once you get the hang of it you also realize it's safer as well. Also, torsion beam *can* be done pretty well, I've cars that were horrible and another that was perfectly fine for a budget car but for the top turbo trim it's not acceptable at all. No vents or ports in the back is really bad for a $35k car as well... Too bad, it seems Mazda wants to be upscale and they do drive really well, but then misses out on these key features!
Well taking into consideration that Mazda has a bigger turbo engine, AWD and a more premium interior that probably adds more weight because of the sound insolation, it's not that more heavy vs Honda Civic Si
It’s VERY good looking. Interior and exterior id take either vehicle. The Mazda is a bit faster but the integra more efficient. This would come down to a coin flip for me. I love both vehicles honestly.
Couple of questions for Your opinion, or educated guess, on the future and direction of the Mazda 3. In the video You mentioned possible changes on upcoming generations. You referred to the transmission and the adoption of the DCT coming into the higher platforms. Do You foresee a chance of the DCT being utilized, at least on the top trim of the Mazda 3? Just my own opinion that if they’re not going to at least provide a manual, a decent DCT should be the next best option. And when do You foresee the next generational changes happening?
I wanted this car soooo badly last year but Mazda 3s have been discontinued in Jamaica for the CX3 and CX30. I got an 11th Gen Civic instead. That said, if I was to choose between this and an Integra, I'm going with this all day every day. Of the three cars mentioned in this comment, the Integra's interior looks the least premium to me, even though it's probably the most premium. That's the deal breaker for me. Also LOL about that bug hahaha.
My problem is that they gatekeep the manual transmission by forcing you to buy the fully loaded but base engine trim level. I really hope they will be able to offer a manual at the base and also offer a manual with the turbo engine may help draw sales from the enthusiast base. Especially now that the STI is going away, Mazda has a real shot at gaining a good chunk of that audience.
Manual with Turbo is never going to happen. They'd have to redesign the whoel car and trans. There's no market for manual> Everyone bitches endlessly about it but no one buys them. Here in Canada, less then 9% of cars on the road are manual.
Too bad the Mazda Connect system has gone for the worse, and that's not good. Also wouldn't hurt for the USDM to sacrifice a little center stack storage space for the slim ODD module (still available in other markets) to compliment the Bose speaker upgrade......
Autos NOW shift faster than Humanly possible - and - Americans want to be able to Text/EAT/Drink 🥤 while driving and ALWAYS buy Autos :/ Plus any metro areas have start stop traffic snarls - which makes Clutch pedal leg get tired and so there’s that as well 🤷🏻♂️
If you're going to get the cvt version of the Integra, the Mazda 3 turbo is not only a cheaper alternative, but the better choice..but I may be biased since I currently own a 2021 Turbo hatch. Sure the Integra looks better than the Civic Si and comes with some options (conveniently🙄) not available on the Si, the biggest of which is the hatch body style, but I'm not sure any of that is worth the price premium? Of course if a manual transmission is a must have, the Mazda isnt even in the convo with either the Integra or Civic Si...big mistake on Mazdas part. Having said that, the 6 speed auto on the 3 is tried and true, and tuned well for the turbo engine even if it does hold back some of the 0-60 time potential of 250hp and 320 ft lbs torque. (It wont be noticeable in daily driving..this car has plenty of power) P.S. to Kirk...the tires on your tester were likely over inflated. Yes the Mazda 3 with 18" wheels has a firm ride no matter what, but backing the pressure off on your tires (still within spec) makes it a bit more comfy. I'm honestly used to it now so it doesnt bother me, but potholes must be avoided with 18" and up wheels.
Beautiful car with a beautiful interior but torsion beam rear, not even vents for the rear, and bad road noise ruins this for me. 18" wheels are not too big, they are perfectly quiet and smooth on my 5 year old base Golf with even lower profile tires, there is no excuse not to do better.
This is going to be such a huge flop for Mazda. And, that's coming from a Mazda fan-boy who loves his Mazda 6 sSport V6 sedan. Bought it new in 2009 when the 6 was redesigned. Here's why the Mazda 3 Tubro is going to fail: 1) Going upmarket and trying to compete with entry-level cars from legit Luxury brands. I'm sorry, but serious buyers are not going to look at Mazda. They're going to look at the least expensive Audi, BMW, Mercedes, or Lexus vehicles. Those buyers want status symbols, not just performance and practicality. 2) Treating their core customer base like garbage, by taking the brand upscale; and thus pricing their vehicles beyond what most Mazda buyers can afford. This insane idea never works out. GM learned that lesson the hard way with its Oldsmobile brand. Thing is, GM has other brands it was able to fall back on. Mazda, does not. (On a personal note, I will be buying a considerably less expensive 4-door sedan in the near future; from a competitor who knows what the world "value" means for customers who want both performance and practicality.) 3) A non-touch screen info-tainment system display. While pretending that it's somehow a good thing. Unlike the first two, this one will be easy for Mazda to fix in subsequent years.
Solid choice but sounds like if your middle aged and want a bit more rear legroom the cx30 is quick too w easier ingress egress and good shooting brake looks.
Hi Kirk! Good review. Unfortunate for the Mazda 3 is that it’s been in the market for at least a couple of years, but I bet the next version will likely have some more equipment. Do you think the ride characteristics are as you described due to Mazda trying to design it as a car with sporting characteristics or just a possible oversight? I’m curious what the car’s dimensions are in comparison to the Integra. It looks shorter than the Integra on screen. Personally, I’m pretty drawn to the Integra’s rear hatch, though don’t count me out as I am a Mazda fan, too. I guess I’d be naturally inclined to buy the Mazda 3 hatch instead of the sedan.
@@charlesa1234 I often do prefer hatches and wagons over sedans and I think that the design of the wagon is superior. That's obviously subjective, but I do think that the shape and size of the wagon may lend itself to. a more cohesive design than the sedan which looks to me like it ends somewhat abruptly. It's not bad by any means, but I think that hatch is my cup of tea.
@@franzvanjulio5523 , I agree and feel the same. I have an Acura TSX sport wagon and I have greater interior space than a sedan without giving up anything in the handling department. In my opinion it is also a better looking vehicle than the TSX sedan.
OK OK OK so... with Mazda moving upmarket, which i see them doing! Wow this is slick for a Mazda. SO, what will happen to the Miata?! Do you think their strategic plan will be to move it upmarket as well? Keep it as is and bring a new 911 type wannabe? 🤔
I still think the Miata captures the soul of Mazda and they'd keep it as a light, minimal and (relatively) affordable even as they push the rest of their portfolio upmarket. They should relaunch the RX-7 to challenge Porsches one day.
Good looking car but that piano black interior accent has to go. C+/b- compared to the Honda Civic only because it’s a slightly older chassis, smallish rear roominess, and the Mazda price is high.
There is nothing "primitive" about the Mazda torsion beam. It's nothing like the torsion beams from back in the day. It's a step up from the multi link suspension on the previous Mazda 3. Would a multi link give better performance in this vehicle? Sure. But Mazda put the money where it counts. In the interior. Engineering is all about trade offs. My wife is a typical car buyer. She has no idea what a torsion beam refers to. But she sure loves the interior over everything else we looked at.
@@naveenthemachine shows their advantage during hard driving and also when the roads are less than perfect...taking liberty to assume that you are from India...try to drive the mk3 Octavia 1.8tsi and mk3 Octavia 2.0tdi. The former has independent rear suspension, while the latter had torsion beam
you cannot get the Integra 6 speed Manual for less than $37,000 while you can get the M3 Sedan Turbo for $32,000 - I drove the new Manual Integra and It has NO Soul compared to other Civic and Acura Models
If the Mazda 3 was redesigned for 2022 and not 2019, do you think it would've been a liftback like the Integra or a hatchback with a vertical tailgate like the Corolla?
As far as presets, Mazda replaced those with favorites which is what that button is with the star. You can set radio stations, calling a specific contact and other things to favorites so it isn’t limited to one thing.
I've had a 21 Turbo sedan since December 2020 and it's such a fantastic car to drive. The power is effortless, great design, and it's very fuel efficient if you don't have a lead foot.
Same got mine in Dec 2020.
I just can’t seem to get the brick out of my driving shoe.
@@Cal-El Lol, same here. I got mine 11L/100km, which is about 20 mpg.
How one drives the 2.5 Turbo without a lead foot is beyond me - I can respect it, but damn I just can't stop accelerating like an ass 😔
January 21 for my '21 premium hatch, and agree with everything you said. Is it perfect? No, but I don't think such an animal exists. The Mazda 3 turbo is perfect for me right now.
This Mazda is absolutely fantastic. The fit and finish blows anything in it's class out of the water (even better than the Integra). The Integra reminds me of the Hyundai's and Kia's with everything being hard plastic. The Mazda has soft touch materials everywhere you would want it and hard plastics where it should be. This Mazda is an entry level luxury grand tourer and it does it phenomenally well. People need to stop comparing it to vehicles it isn't designed to compete with.
I had a ‘04 Mazda 3! Gave it to my dad with almost 200k miles and it’s still running. All I did was fluid changes, tires, and brakes.
I own a Mazda 626 Sedan in Prestige Silver Metallic colour, 1990 model ... bought brand new in Melbourne, Australia as a gift from my father for my 18th birthday. He paid $ 32,000 Australian dollars for it back then! It's now 32 years old, has done 500,000 kilometres (310,000 miles) and l continue to drive it daily. Has never failed me. Unbelievable car. I cannot part with it. My first and so far, only car ...!! It still looks like new and has always been outside for its entire 32 years, so far.
People cant believe it!
Yesterday l purchased the 2022 Mazda 3 Sedan in Sonic Silver Metallic colour. I am so excited.
I am keeping my 626 and will never part with it and intend to drive both cars.
Love the fact that you address questions head-on at the end - thank you for the great work!
I just got the Mazda 3 hatchback with the naturally 2.5aspirated and I love it. It is a joy to drive. Did not take long to adjust with the rotary dial.
Don’t understand why people goes crazy on intégra/Civic they are so HUGE In trued the mazda3 sedan and the civic si back to back and to me other than the manual on the si, the Mazda was miles ahead fun wise for a sedan, the civic si was such a huge disappointment for how much it get hyped, felt like a gigantic boat to drive. The Mazda gt is a well rounded car, refined, big enough, fun, economic, low price
"felt like a gigantic boat to drive"
This was my impression as well.
Enjoying your honesty and unrehearsed comments.
Nice video, I had test drive last year and felt really connected to this car. Finally I just booked my Mazda 3 Turbo hatch and hope I could get it next month!
I think Mazda vs Acura is not a one > other, but it's a matter of taste. Some people like power and don't care about handling. People that like handling and don't care about power are equally valid.
This literally seems like a no brainer if you're looking for a fun, powerful, reliable, automatic car with AWD. This ticks all of the boxes to be better than the Integra. I have no idea why the Integra even exists? It a rebadged Civic.
The civic is really good. Acura takes it and makes it even better for not much more cash. Should sell very well ...
$ for badges
Best car in the segment. I just installed Cork Sport lowering springs on mine and the OEM roof racks and Thule Bike racks for my bikes. The car looks incredible sitting low.
Did you try to use the sport mode ?
Sport mode plus manual shifting is how that car was intended to move and get best speed enthusiasts experience !
Try all the runs again specially from standstill to see the difference.
Also try sport mode manually controlled to get around and it will be like a grand tourismo car
I didn't mess with sport mode much this time around. Next time will compare 0-60 in sport vs not. Cheers
@@KirkKreifels and turn off AC for full engine power.
Mazda is doing a fantastic job of pivoting towards being a more upmarket brand.
Same spec that I was looking at this weekend. So sharp looking, and drove so well with the power. Dealer insisted on a markup though and I had to bail. At this point I'm going to just drop to the fwd preferred and forgo the turbo. Maybe even go the hatchback route. The NA drivetrain might be a little better for some of the long road trips I have planned, and I'll feel better driving on gravel and dirt roads if I don't spend the extra $. Which is a shame because I really like this car so much. This market has just beaten me down, and not having a garage in the NE makes some costs even harder to justify. And I really can't bring myself to go the CUV/SUV route
Honestly? If I hadnt test driven the turbo (tester was a sedan, I bought a hatch) I would never have stretched for the extra cost. I mean I'm happy I did now, but the normally aspirated 186 hp version felt plenty quick to me, especially in the just above base FWD sedan I test drove. It's still the highest hp/tq base engine of any compact car, so should be plenty for most people. Just get the lighter FWD version unless you think you must have AWD. I can't help but wonder how my turbo hatch would feel with less weight.
@@jbm0866 I was thinking the same thing about fwd too. I'm waiting until after tax season. If there's a turbo option without markup available at that point I'll be back at it. It's a principal thing. I can afford the markup, it just gets under my skin knowing I paid for it. I'm sure after a year of driving I'd have put it out of mind. Probably.
@@markcoopers1930 If you go with AWD you'll definitely want the turbo. It's a good AWD system, but adds a bit too much weight to the naturally aspirated engine. The 2WD version definitely felt lighter on it's feet, and the base engine is just fine in that config..probably even better with a manual. (Didnt get to test one)
I have to add to Kirk’s answers to that first question about what’s new is that the turn signals and reverse light are no longer the four LEDs and it’s now has a housing cover and fades in and out when blinking like the CX-30.
Also for the last question, I found that their driver’s assist package and features have become a bit more aggressive that there were times I found myself fighting against it but at the same time it kept me from hitting the barrier on the highway because I was a bit distracted observing a tailgater on my ass.
Been eyeing the 3 sedan turbo for some time. Currently have a cx5 and want to get back into a compact sedan again. I'm interested to seeing the new integra and see how it drives. I'm leaning more towards the integra as it seems to have more back seat room and hoping it'll be a smoother ride, with the adaptive suspension, than the mazda.
Teat drove the integra Aspec trim and it seemed slow to me. 20 mins of test drive and I could not find anything great to say about it. It is an OK car. I would not spend 35k on it to be frank
While I hate the shiny black plastic in my Mazda3 and my prior Mazda3, I can't say that I have a single scratch on any of it after a combined 140,000 miles. I am not sure either what I am doing right or what apparently every reviewer is doing wrong.
PPF the interior black plastic or installed overpayments carbon fiber, red, black, blue, chrome.
Thanks for talking about the driver assist features. It's one of my main shopping points now that I'm getting older, but can't afford that nice home close to the office. I feel that gets overlooked in many other car reviews.
Jury's still out on Integra sound system. A Volvo XC40 sound system is not the same as the one on an XC90. You can't get a Mercedes GLA with the same sound system as a GLS.
Thanks for the honest review. Been looking at the Mazda3 for awhile but gotta rethink my options.
Krik.fantastic review and excellent as always
I'd like to see the practicality of Integra hatchback vs Mazda3 hatchback (what can fit in the backseats/cargo area/ cargo area with backseats folded down?)
I don’t think the new 3 hatchback can carry as much as my 2015. I have had all four summer tires/wheels, a 55” tv, my Xbox and ps4, four bags of clothes, two duffel bags, a couple of small boxes and me in the car.
The Integra will carry way more. It's 5 inches longer than the Civic and the Civic is already a good bit longer than the 3.
The 3 is a true compact car. The Integra is barely in the segment. Personally I prefer the smaller options, but space is an easy win for Acura.
Love my Mazda 3 turbo hatchback what a amazing car so fast and the awd is killer. And talk about Quality and luxury it don’t get much better in this buddy! Great review my friend
8:55 when my wife tries to bug me while I’m watching Kirk’s new video.
This is still hilarious.
Fantastic car and mazda is on a roll.
I too like the Mazda 3. I just wish it had a touchscreen…
@@naveenthemachine agree. I dont see this as premium car. Just my opinion
@@naveenthemachine for me who has an imaginary OCD, I prefer my infotainment screen free of fingerprints.
good presentation, thanks Kirk.
I still laugh at ppl that complain about the torsion beam. Unless ur gonna go to the race track, u will barely even notice the torsion beam. For daily drivers, there’s barely any difference any regular person will even notice.
Edit: 17:40 6-peed. Interesting…
You’re actually so tall! Love this review.. debating on a 3rd Mazda 3 to replace my Acura
Currently driving the 2017 Sedan and it’s been a terrific car. Would like to upgrade to the newer turbo. Of course if the Mazda 6 replacement comes out with the 6 cylinder may have to go that direction…
2:15 this hatchback shown has early gen4 tail lights which aren't as bright and have fewer diodes than 2022 both in the tail light red circle and the signal. They also lack dimming turn signals. It's almost the same car but showing last year's hatch with the stingy diode tail lights is misleading.
I find it so odd that you had disconnect issues with Android auto, my 2022 Mazda3 AWD GT has never done that. I'm using an Xperia 1ii though.
I like the review! I'm happy you reviewed one of these.
Oh btw, it has traffic assist with steering assist under 60km/h it'll steer and keep you centered in your lane but only up to 60k (about 40mph?) After that it's just the vibrate/shove you back thing.
Thanks for the added info! I have a pixel 6 pro. Still not sure why it kicks me out randomly. Also I hope Mazda enables full speed lane centering soon. Cheers.
@@mezzb so it seems like it doesn't like some phones? But others it's cool with. My Xperia 1 ii is a model from 2021, not the early 1ii from 2020 but the upgraded hardware that Sony sold in 21.
I'll have to try another phone and see what happens. So when you have issues is it any situation in particular? Or it just randomly disconnects?
Greatest thing about automobiles? Choices! What's great for me, may not be for you. Here's the key to everything.... If what you buy, puts the biggest smile on your face, you've chosen correctly! That's all that matters.
It looks like they've removed the USB port above the cup holders. That's great! But if they've simply removed it and you need to plug your phone into the ports in the center console, that's an unfortunate step backwards.
I have a 2019 Mazda 3 and you're spot on about the adaptive cruise control. It seems to only have full throttle and full brake. It's not terrible on the highway, and I use it all the time in town, but it is not comfortable if you're used to other systems.
Only use cruise where theres low traffic n u wont need to worry about it.
I love the Mazda simple design, all models .
What a good looking sedan. Needs Soul Red paint!
I average 26 mpg city/hwy combined on my '21 Turbo sedan.
I get 21 on the hatch but I have fun in it 😎
I also live in Florida. Seat belt buckles here in you MX5 with the top down become branding irons.
Kirk I have a 2012 mazda3 and love my car but I want to get a modern Mazda. Which do you think would be a better buy? Mazda3 turbo vs Miata? I’m a young urban professional and want my next car to be fun and a Mazda
Love the hatchbacks of these
Can you add exhaust notes in your reviews in the future?
My Man Mazda 🔥
just ordered this exact car last tuesday.. im trading my 16 mazda 3 in for more power. i love these cars... and so the wait begins. 3-5 months for a factory order
Mazda please make a 2 door sports car with the new i6 engine turbocharged. That’s what the Supra should have been.
One of the best lookers, just missing independent rear, 6 speed manual, back vents and ports, touch screen, adjustable dampers. Newer auto dog or 8 speed.
Agree with all your points except the Touch screen. It really is overrated and kind of passe, I had to get used to dial only on a BMW X3 and once you get the hang of it you also realize it's safer as well. Also, torsion beam *can* be done pretty well, I've cars that were horrible and another that was perfectly fine for a budget car but for the top turbo trim it's not acceptable at all. No vents or ports in the back is really bad for a $35k car as well... Too bad, it seems Mazda wants to be upscale and they do drive really well, but then misses out on these key features!
CX-5 has plenty of space in the rear for adults. It has more headroom than the CX-50 and maybe 1" less legroom.
The best review I found!!!! Thanks
Thanks for watching!
great overview as always.
Which do you prefer? Mazda 3 Hatchback without the Turbo or a non-S version of the Acura Integra?
Well taking into consideration that Mazda has a bigger turbo engine, AWD and a more premium interior that probably adds more weight because of the sound insolation, it's not that more heavy vs Honda Civic Si
It’s VERY good looking. Interior and exterior id take either vehicle. The Mazda is a bit faster but the integra more efficient.
This would come down to a coin flip for me. I love both vehicles honestly.
Yes! Integra should be able to easily get 30+ mpg. Best case on m3 turbo is 25 combine
Great job Kirk. I dig this little guy. The Mazda not you. But your cool too.
Love the review(s) sir. It's too bad there are no hills to take that 2.5L on and to experience the hill climb assistance sir.
I’d rather have this than whatever a Integra is.
Dig the review style. Keep it up.
Couple of questions for Your opinion, or educated guess, on the future and direction of the Mazda 3. In the video You mentioned possible changes on upcoming generations. You referred to the transmission and the adoption of the DCT coming into the higher platforms. Do You foresee a chance of the DCT being utilized, at least on the top trim of the Mazda 3? Just my own opinion that if they’re not going to at least provide a manual, a decent DCT should be the next best option. And when do You foresee the next generational changes happening?
I wanted this car soooo badly last year but Mazda 3s have been discontinued in Jamaica for the CX3 and CX30. I got an 11th Gen Civic instead. That said, if I was to choose between this and an Integra, I'm going with this all day every day. Of the three cars mentioned in this comment, the Integra's interior looks the least premium to me, even though it's probably the most premium. That's the deal breaker for me.
Also LOL about that bug hahaha.
15:00 LOL yea 85 here as well. Spring has been here for weeks! I fear summer will come early and burn us all.
Anyone know if the oil burning issues have been corrected for the 2022 model 2.5 Turbo?
My problem is that they gatekeep the manual transmission by forcing you to buy the fully loaded but base engine trim level. I really hope they will be able to offer a manual at the base and also offer a manual with the turbo engine may help draw sales from the enthusiast base. Especially now that the STI is going away, Mazda has a real shot at gaining a good chunk of that audience.
Manual with Turbo is never going to happen. They'd have to redesign the whoel car and trans.
There's no market for manual> Everyone bitches endlessly about it but no one buys them. Here in Canada, less then 9% of cars on the road are manual.
This sedan is such a good looking car, but I'm leaning more towards the hatchback😍
Mazda3 > Integra
THE END
All the Mazda now needs is the manual with the turbo and AWD. That will be the ultimate blow to killing the integra
Maybe to the CVT...not the manual by a long shot
@@KirkKreifels agreed
Great review. I assume the M6 got dropped from the lineup.
Yeah mate. Watch my final review on it 😭
Too bad the Mazda Connect system has gone for the worse, and that's not good. Also wouldn't hurt for the USDM to sacrifice a little center stack storage space for the slim ODD module (still available in other markets) to compliment the Bose speaker upgrade......
2021 turbo poly metal gray red leather interior so gorgeous my yolo car love it so much
No power fold mirrors, no cooled seats, on this vehicle with premium ambitions. No thanks. Love that new CX-50 though!
It seems far superior to the Integra
If only Mazda would pair the manual transmission with the Turbo…even if just a limited number for "enthusiasts"…
Autos NOW shift faster than Humanly possible - and -
Americans want to be able to Text/EAT/Drink 🥤 while driving and ALWAYS buy Autos :/
Plus any metro areas have start stop traffic snarls - which makes Clutch pedal leg get tired and so there’s that as well 🤷🏻♂️
I don't know if I should get the integra or Mazda3 select and save myself the 10k.
Mazda does no wrong.. great cars
If you were to own a Mazda, you get acclimated to the dial selector. I can use it without looking whereas a touchscreen always needs you to look at.
This is true, but I prefer to have both.
They're truly is... no best of in anything. Its... What's best to you!
If you're going to get the cvt version of the Integra, the Mazda 3 turbo is not only a cheaper alternative, but the better choice..but I may be biased since I currently own a 2021 Turbo hatch. Sure the Integra looks better than the Civic Si and comes with some options (conveniently🙄) not available on the Si, the biggest of which is the hatch body style, but I'm not sure any of that is worth the price premium? Of course if a manual transmission is a must have, the Mazda isnt even in the convo with either the Integra or Civic Si...big mistake on Mazdas part. Having said that, the 6 speed auto on the 3 is tried and true, and tuned well for the turbo engine even if it does hold back some of the 0-60 time potential of 250hp and 320 ft lbs torque. (It wont be noticeable in daily driving..this car has plenty of power)
P.S. to Kirk...the tires on your tester were likely over inflated. Yes the Mazda 3 with 18" wheels has a firm ride no matter what, but backing the pressure off on your tires (still within spec) makes it a bit more comfy. I'm honestly used to it now so it doesnt bother me, but potholes must be avoided with 18" and up wheels.
Beautiful car with a beautiful interior but torsion beam rear, not even vents for the rear, and bad road noise ruins this for me. 18" wheels are not too big, they are perfectly quiet and smooth on my 5 year old base Golf with even lower profile tires, there is no excuse not to do better.
Does anyone know if you can turn the heads up feature on and off?
I prefer analogue guages when possible they last longer than the car and are all you need.
This is an amazing looking car, just can't compete with Lexus or Acura or Benz or BMW if you cannot get Ventilated Seats or 🟥 seats on sedan
The Integra does not come with ventilated seats
But the integra will have better driver assist features, like lane keep assist 😢
It doesn’t even have 360 cam lol
This is going to be such a huge flop for Mazda. And, that's coming from a Mazda fan-boy who loves his Mazda 6 sSport V6 sedan. Bought it new in 2009 when the 6 was redesigned. Here's why the Mazda 3 Tubro is going to fail:
1) Going upmarket and trying to compete with entry-level cars from legit Luxury brands. I'm sorry, but serious buyers are not going to look at Mazda. They're going to look at the least expensive Audi, BMW, Mercedes, or Lexus vehicles. Those buyers want status symbols, not just performance and practicality.
2) Treating their core customer base like garbage, by taking the brand upscale; and thus pricing their vehicles beyond what most Mazda buyers can afford. This insane idea never works out. GM learned that lesson the hard way with its Oldsmobile brand. Thing is, GM has other brands it was able to fall back on. Mazda, does not. (On a personal note, I will be buying a considerably less expensive 4-door sedan in the near future; from a competitor who knows what the world "value" means for customers who want both performance and practicality.)
3) A non-touch screen info-tainment system display. While pretending that it's somehow a good thing. Unlike the first two, this one will be easy for Mazda to fix in subsequent years.
Solid choice but sounds like if your middle aged and want a bit more rear legroom the cx30 is quick too w easier ingress egress and good shooting brake looks.
First thing I did when I got my 2021 Mazda 3 Turbo was get wider tires.
14k miles on my 2021 turbo hatch i avarage 25 mpg.
Nice 👍
How come no update on the turbo oil leakage problems? I'd like to hear that they fixed that oil problem.
Kirk...why is the Turbo 3 $9K+ more than the naturally aspirated engine? Humm...I almost purchased a 3 Preferred for $23800.
Love the car and the wheels, but at 215 with 7" for a turbo model? Come on, make it at least 8/235. I dont want to have to buy a new set of wheels.
That is the same price as the Mazda six carbon was last year
I'd take the m6
@@KirkKreifels we have a 2021 m6 carbon. We have been impressed but have had issues with wheels and tires. Bad roads around here 19” rim.
Hi Kirk! Good review. Unfortunate for the Mazda 3 is that it’s been in the market for at least a couple of years, but I bet the next version will likely have some more equipment. Do you think the ride characteristics are as you described due to Mazda trying to design it as a car with sporting characteristics or just a possible oversight? I’m curious what the car’s dimensions are in comparison to the Integra. It looks shorter than the Integra on screen. Personally, I’m pretty drawn to the Integra’s rear hatch, though don’t count me out as I am a Mazda fan, too. I guess I’d be naturally inclined to buy the Mazda 3 hatch instead of the sedan.
why do you prefer Mazda3 hatch?
@@charlesa1234 I often do prefer hatches and wagons over sedans and I think that the design of the wagon is superior. That's obviously subjective, but I do think that the shape and size of the wagon may lend itself to. a more cohesive design than the sedan which looks to me like it ends somewhat abruptly. It's not bad by any means, but I think that hatch is my cup of tea.
@@franzvanjulio5523 , I agree and feel the same. I have an Acura TSX sport wagon and I have greater interior space than a sedan without giving up anything in the handling department. In my opinion it is also a better looking vehicle than the TSX sedan.
@@sachemrock We're cut from the same cloth, Robert. I have to ask, any relation to Lamborghini's Balboni?
@@franzvanjulio5523 no but that would be nice. He had maybe the best job on the planet Franz. 😃
OK OK OK so... with Mazda moving upmarket, which i see them doing! Wow this is slick for a Mazda. SO, what will happen to the Miata?! Do you think their strategic plan will be to move it upmarket as well? Keep it as is and bring a new 911 type wannabe? 🤔
I see Mazda as a Japanese Porsche. They have many similarities and Mazda just went though what Porsche did in the late 80's early 90's.
@@aurorajones8481 I remember that BMW also hasn't always been a luxury brand.
I still think the Miata captures the soul of Mazda and they'd keep it as a light, minimal and (relatively) affordable even as they push the rest of their portfolio upmarket. They should relaunch the RX-7 to challenge Porsches one day.
Good looking car but that piano black interior accent has to go. C+/b- compared to the Honda Civic only because it’s a slightly older chassis, smallish rear roominess, and the Mazda price is high.
Somebody tell manufacturers that nobody likes chrome.
The majority of people buying these cars are too smart to know any better.
Do they still use that primitive torsion beam rear suspension? If so, it is a fail
There is nothing "primitive" about the Mazda torsion beam. It's nothing like the torsion beams from back in the day. It's a step up from the multi link suspension on the previous Mazda 3. Would a multi link give better performance in this vehicle? Sure. But Mazda put the money where it counts. In the interior. Engineering is all about trade offs. My wife is a typical car buyer. She has no idea what a torsion beam refers to. But she sure loves the interior over everything else we looked at.
I never understood the point of multilink rear or double wishbone fronts. I’ve driven with both suspension types and haven’t noticed a difference
@@naveenthemachine shows their advantage during hard driving and also when the roads are less than perfect...taking liberty to assume that you are from India...try to drive the mk3 Octavia 1.8tsi and mk3 Octavia 2.0tdi. The former has independent rear suspension, while the latter had torsion beam
@@kl01af6940 I’m in the USA now
Shoutout to South Florida
Hope they add rear AC vents & ventilated seats!! The whole world is getting hotter & need cooling!!!
you cannot get the Integra 6 speed Manual for less than $37,000 while you can get the M3 Sedan Turbo for $32,000 - I drove the new Manual Integra and It has NO Soul compared to other Civic and Acura Models
if you ever wanna drive the skyactive X just come to Germany and i let you drive mine 😂😁
I would get the Kia Stinger GT-line for around $35K.
If the Mazda 3 was redesigned for 2022 and not 2019, do you think it would've been a liftback like the Integra or a hatchback with a vertical tailgate like the Corolla?
The fwd have the torsinbeeam rear suspension . but not the awd it's independent it kinda has to be for it to be awd.
Still torsion beam for AWD I believe
You are wrong. it's all torsion.
As far as presets, Mazda replaced those with favorites which is what that button is with the star. You can set radio stations, calling a specific contact and other things to favorites so it isn’t limited to one thing.
Florida has a week of Spring 2 weeks of fall the rest summer and Winter
How i wish this came with a manual.