Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Mazda offers three different four-cylinder engines with the 3, starting with a 2.0-liter on the base sedan. It makes 155 horsepower and comes only with front-wheel drive. Moving up to the 186-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder unlocks the optional all-wheel-drive system, but we’re most excited by the 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter. Buyers can get a six-speed manual but only if they stick with front-wheel drive. Opting for the all-wheel-drive system mandates a six-speed automatic transmission.
While every 2022 Mazda 3 responds readily to gas-pedal inputs, only the turbocharged engine makes the 3 satisfyingly quick. We haven’t tested the new turbocharged engine, but we expect to see big improvements in performance over the other two. Both the hatchback and sedan feel composed on straight and twisty roads and provide a refined ride quality. We’ve praised the new Mazda 3 for retaining the fun-to-drive nature of the outgoing model. It has tight body control, natural-feeling steering, and a firm ride that manages not to punish occupants when going over rough roads.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The most fuel-efficient 2022 Mazda 3 is the sedan with the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which earned ratings from the EPA of 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway; upgrading to the more powerful 2.5-liter non-turbo engine drops those numbers—but not by much—to 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. The turbocharged hatchback model with all-wheel drive is the least fuel-efficient, with ratings of 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.
We tested an all-wheel-drive automatic-equipped sedan with the non-turbo 2.5-liter on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy route, and it posted an outstanding 41 mpg. We also tested a similarly equipped hatchback, which beat its highway rating by 2 mpg (for 34 mpg observed). The front-drive stick-shift 3 returned 38 mpg (3 more than estimated). For more information about the 3’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Mazda thoughtfully designed the 2022 Mazda 3 ‘s cabin with premium materials. Buyers can outfit either body style with a slew of desirable features, but the best ones are tied into the trim-level hierarchy. For instance, a head-up display, heated front seats, and leather upholstery are all reserved for the topmost trims. Still, the 3 sedans and hatchback have supportive seats and comfortable passenger accommodations.
However, the two-box model has the worst rear visibility among compact hatchbacks due to its curvaceous design taking priority over sightlines. Interior cubby storage is adequate, but those who want the most cargo space should choose the sedan, which held six carry-on bags in the trunk versus the hatch’s five. Both held 16 bags with the back seat folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
An 8.8-inch infotainment display is standard and looks even larger than it is, thanks to a nicely designed bezel that floats between two pillow-like dash pads. The system is easy to use and controlled solely by a console-mounted rotary knob. Those who want Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability will have to look above the base model, and the available 12-speaker Bose audio system and SiriusXM satellite radio cost extra.
