Overall, the 2026 Mazda3 is a well-rounded hatchback. It’s comfortable, zippy, and convenient. However, it hasn’t been redesigned since 2019, and its age is starting to show. One upgrade would make it unbeatable. 

The 2026 Mazda3 hatch needs one upgrade 

I had a lovely week reviewing the 2026 Mazda3 Hatch around Asheville, NC, and Rock Hill, SC. However, one frustration sticks out in my mind as needing an update. 

But before we dive in, here are a few other potential drawbacks to consider: 

• Limited cargo space compared to rivals. 
• Tight backseat space (even for me at 5’1”).
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto isn’t standard. 
• The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine requires premium fuel for its full potential. 

Now, what’s frustrating about the Mazda3? 

The tech. The Mazda3 hatch and sedan could use updated tech. The system doesn’t have a touchscreen and it’s controlled by a rotary dial system, but that’s easy to master. 

My issue is the inability to connect to Apple CarPlay/Android Auto without a charging cable. The system just can’t seem to find phones via Bluetooth connection despite being powered by Alexa. 

So, without Apple CarPlay, you have to manually enter your GPS route with the rotary dial system. It takes a while to swivel through the alphabet. Also, you can only enter directions while the vehicle is stopped. That means your passenger can’t really help out. 

I tried to use the voice assistant to control the tech hands-free, but you have to enter your Amazon account information first. This is something I didn’t want to take the time to do, because I imagine that signing out isn’t exactly easy. But maybe I’m wrong. 

This sounds like a nightmare for rental vehicles that frequently change hands. Plus, I don’t know where the Mazda3 was going after my week with it. If I did take the time to sign in via Amazon, then using my phone and smart speakers for basic commands would have probably been cool. 

The available 10.25-inch touchscreen is vibrant, and the system works quickly. Plus, the 12-speaker Bose audio system sounds great. The 360-degree camera is a bit small. 

In areas where I didn’t need directions, the minimalistic tech design was very peaceful and relaxing as I focused on having fun behind the wheel. 

What’s good about the Mazda3 hatch? 

The available 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with 93 octane gas. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. It’s one of the fastest compact cars in its class. 

It sprints off the line with smooth transmission shifts and responsive handling. It corners well and remains confident and composed around sharp curves without noticeable body roll. Plus, the brakes are perfectly tuned. 

The ride is a bit firm, but the suspension quickly dampens impacts for a smooth ride across broken sections of pavement. Plus, the interior is peaceful at highway speeds, even in bursts of heavy rain. 

This powerful hatch is fun and convenient in tight city areas. You don’t need to rely on the 360-degree camera to park because you can see the curb and painted lines from the windows. Plus, the 17.4-foot turning radius. 

It’s an extremely comfortable place to spend time, even without the available premium leather upholstery. The front seats are large and well-padded with secure side bolstering. You stay energized during longer trips. 

While the rear seats aren’t the best for taller folks, they’re still comfortable. Shorter passengers won’t mind sitting in the back during brief rides. 

The interior provides a sense of upscale elegance with quality materials. The leather-wrapped surfaces pop with accent stitching and metal-painted accents. Nothing about it suggests that it’s a cheap hatch. 

Other 2026 Mazda3 specs to consider: 

• The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit with 191 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. 
• The 2026 Mazda3 hatch turbo gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway. 
• You get 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat with up to 47 cubic feet overall. 
• Storage space for personal items is limited with a narrow center console and small door pockets. 
• All-wheel drive isn’t standard with this model.