Photography ©2019 Toni Avery

It’s been a number of years since I last reviewed the Mazda3 Hatchback. I enjoyed it the last time and thought it really embodied a lot of positive attributes. For starters, it looked nice from the outside, had plenty of room on the inside, was available in a manual transmission and had that signature Mazda soul. But the latest Mazda3 frankly overshadows the previous, but in a very good way.

This Mazda3 is powered by a Skyactiv-G 2.5 L engine producing 186 HP and 186 lb-ft of torque mated to a six-speed manual transmission powering the front wheels. As of now, the only way to get a manual on the Mazda3 is with a Premium Package model. I’m not sure I completely understand this decision, but I’m sure Mazda has their reasons.

Going into this I was excited to see what changes the Mazda3 has undergone since my last loan as I really enjoyed my time. I felt that the Mazda3 previously had more driving soul than I expected for the type of car it is. But this time around I can’t figure out if it’s just been so long since my last exposure to the car or if things have changed. Things performance wise really haven’t changed, but my feeling behind the wheel has. I’m probably going to attribute it to the fact that this version is significantly more grown up and all-around more polished than the last and doesn’t lend to that sporty side as much anymore. The manual transmission is still great, though, very Mazda in its smoothness.

The outside of the completely redesigned Mazda3 is finished in Polymteal Grey Mica with black finish alloy wheels.

It’s clear by looking at it that this Mazda3 is the best looking yet. It’s gorgeous from every angle, very mature and striking. It is certainly one of the most impressive looking Mazda vehicles in the lineup in its hatchback form. It looks especially beautiful in the Polymetal Grey Mica color.

The inside of the Mazda3 is covered in stunning red leather. I can’t get over just how gorgeous the inside of the Mazda3 is. It’s honestly the vehicles best feature and can very well compete in the luxury segment no problem. It’s comparable to some Audi press cars I’ve reviewed in the past. There isn’t a single part of the interior that looked cheap. I was very impressed and I was glad to have Apple Car Play to use while driving around.

I’m overall very impressed by the transformation a car that was already good has made. From the exterior transformation to the interior complete makeover, I bet this Mazda3 will do very well as a family car or whatever car for someone who wants to be part of the Mazda family.

2019 Mazda3 Hatchback:

Base Price: $27,500

Options:

Cargo Mat ($90), Illuminated Door Sill Trim Plates ($425), Frameless

Auto-dim Mirror ($275), Navigation SD card ($450), Wireless

Charging Pad ($275), Premium Package (Active Driving Display, Adaptive Front 

Lighting System, Leather Seats, Black Finish Alloy Wheels, Front LED Signature

Illumination, Rear LED Signature Illumination, Power-sliding Glass 

Moonroof, Paddle Shifters)

Destination Charge: $920

Total Price: $29,935

Fuel Economy: 25 City, 35 Highway, 29 Combined 

GirlsDriveFastToo gives 2019 Mazda3 Hatchback an overall rating of (out of 5 total):