2024 Mazda 3 Touring: Quick review

Emerging in the late 1970s as a modest entrant, the Mazda 3 has steadily risen to become a highly favored small car in Australia.

However, like other small cars in its class it's starting to creep up in price towards competitive light and small SUVs, presents a significant challenge in maintaining robust sales volumes.

To stay appealing, the Mazda 3, along with models like the CX-3, has been updated midway through its life cycle. This update notably deleted manual transmission and mild hybrid options.

Instead, the focus has shifted to enhancing the economical 2.0-litre petrol engine and introducing new technology across the higher-end models, including Wireless CarPlay and a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen.

7

2023 G25 Evolve SP sedan model shown: differences include wheels and black grille

Pricing and Features

The Mazda 3 comes in two styles: a five-door hatchback and a four-door sedan, with the mid-spec Touring model of each priced at $34,520 excluding on-road expenses. For the same money you can choose the Evolve SP, with a more sports-focused set of features and bigger engine.

Both versions are equipped with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers an output of 114kW of power, 200Nm of torque, using 5.9L/100km on a combined fuel cycle.

Stepping up to the Evolve SP will change your engine to a more powerful 139kW/252Nm 2.5-litre engine.

7

2023 G25 Evolve SP sedan model shown: differences include black alloy wheels

The Mazda 3 stands out with its interior quality, offering a sophistication and simplicity that seems superior to its rivals.

Its cabin boasts a sleek design, highlighted by a slim, elegant steering wheel, an easy-to-use infotainment system with an 8.8-inch screen, and vital connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The design prioritizes driver engagement, as seen in the ergonomic arrangement and the general layout of the cabin.

Additionally, the lower seating position in the Mazda 3 lends a sporty ambiance, setting it apart from larger models in the lineup, like the CX-30.

7

2023 G25 Astina sedan model shown: larger screen (10.25 vs. 8.8-inch on Pure)

For an extra $2000 you can add a Vision Technology option package which includes :

• Driver Monitoring
• 360° view monitor
• Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA)
• Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS)
• Front Parking Sensors
• 10.25 inch widescreen colour display

Safety

Every model within the Mazda 3 series possesses a five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on evaluations conducted in 2019.

These ratings break down to 98% in adult occupant protection, 89% in child occupant protection, 81% in protecting vulnerable road users, and 76% in safety assist technologies.

Each car in the range is outfitted with seven airbags, encompassing front, side, and curtain airbags, along with a driver’s knee airbag.

Standard across all models are various active safety features:

• Autonomous emergency braking (vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist)
• Reverse autonomous emergency braking
• Lane-keep assist
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear-cross traffic alert
• Adaptive cruise control
• Traffic sign recognition
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Automatic high beam
• Rear parking sensors
  

7

Key Rivals

The Mazda 3 competes against popular small cars such as:

• Toyota Corolla
• Honda Civic
• Hyundai i30
• Kia Cerato
• Volkswagen Golf

7

Should I Put It On My Shortlist?

While many Australians obsess over SUV options, there is still a world of merit for those looking for a sports-styled hatch or sedan.

If the 2024 Mazda 3 Touring follows the trajectory of its predecessors, it will be a compelling choice for those seeking a compact car that balances luxury, technology, and enjoyable driving dynamics.

The Touring offers a bit of extra comfort over it's entry-spec with keyless entry and larger 18-inch alloys that are worth the price.

However, the G25 Evolve SP equipped with the Vision Technology package does seem to offer the right mix or features and might just be the ideal choice within the Mazda 3 lineup.