2021 Mazda 3 Turbo AWD: Canyon Running w Mazda's Boosted Hot Hatch

We test drove the 2021 Mazda 3 Turbo AWD with 2.5L Skyactiv-G engine for three days. This video uncovers all the details I liked and didn't like about the car.
For more info and exclusive HIGH RES downloadable photos:
motormavens.com
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[@karlkrzok4280]

Great video, your style of shooting is great and really shows off the car. I have a 2011 Mazda 3 and it has been a great car, over 135,000 miles and has never broken down or needed any repairs. No squeaks, no rattles and it still drives like the day it came off the dealers lot.

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you for the compliment, Karl! I am test driving the sedan version of the Mazda3 Turbo right now. It's COOL! That's awesome to hear your 2011 Mazda 3 has been so great for you! I can't wait to drive more of these cars!

[@mobert92]

I have a 2011 mazda 3 as well. Mine has 252k on the odometer.

[@johnnelson9742]

If you get this car prepare for a lot of rattles at 5k miles lmao

[@theimprovementsguy8871]

I think everyone is just watching for your friend

[@MotorMavens]

HAHA!!! I don’t blame em 🤣

[@robertduklus6555]

yeah man, i came for the car stayed for the girl.

[@MotorMavens]

@@robertduklus6555 HAHAHAHAHAHA same same!!! You gotta watch my next Mazda 3 Turbo video then. She returns in that video!

[@jackpowell8155]

I want to move to Japan for the chicks

[@AsherCB350]

Nahh gang😂

[@tomphan6438]

This style of video fits your narration style. Would be cool if someone like you would speak more to the car culture of the type of enthusiasts that love Mazda bc when they love Mazda they LOVE Mazda. Zoom zoom

[@MotorMavens]

That's definitely true. Mazda enthusiasts are HARDCORE fans, and most of them are deeply rooted in motorsports! THANK YOU for the feedback Tom!

[@Bill4agze]

Lots of good work here Antonio. All image detail has artistic flair and is an A+. Image was "pro-quality". Verbal content was well spoken but was more than expected. The technical terms was appreciated by us car guys. The car could've used more distant still shots as well as more distant moving shots. (but who cares its just me) Overall your work has done its job, you've brought the car to the audiences face and was able to show what high quality MAZDA has to offer for todays car buyer. Fantastic creativity !

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you Bill!!!! I really appreciate your input! I agree - I did need more exterior shots from a distance. I didn't realize I didn't shoot enough until AFTER the car was returned and we were trying to edit the video. UGH! Next time, next time!!

[@AntonioAlvendia]

Bill!!! I'd love to catch up with you!!!

[@RIGA1014]

Always love your videos and the female element. That B roll of her walking around at the beginning in slow mo was great. oh snap, you talked about the 323 GTX. bringing it back old school. Mazda has always been at our company's core. We just need a legit rotary again.

[@MotorMavens]

yesss rotary engine!!!

[@mugensamurai]

You were not wrong. These things are fun to drive.

[@dwx]

This was a very well made video compared to the 10+ videos I've already watched. Your voice also has this really calming asmr effect as well haha

[@MotorMavens]

Wow, what a compliment! Thank you, DWX! I’m pretty new to doing car review videos, but it’s really fun and a skillset I intend to keep practicing and refining. That’s hilarious about the calming ASMR thing... that’s the very first time I’ve ever heard something like that! 😆 Again, thank you!

[@user-vk3ch5eg5g]

Kiri's a doll. More reviews with her please. I have a 2020 non-Turbo. Love it. In test drives I found the FWD felt faster, maybe because it's lighter than the AWD, but that might all be in my head.

[@MotorMavens]

sukebe kun, ii dayo! She’s in the next Mazda 3 Turbo video!

[@user-vk3ch5eg5g]

@@MotorMavens still waiting...LoL...I had a 2005 Mazda 3 before I traded-in for the 2020. But no one wants to hear me talk about the differences. You and Kiri will do better!

[@MotorMavens]

@@user-vk3ch5eg5g haha working on it!!! 🙏

[@ryanjones7202]

That kinda power with that mpg is nuts! My daily Subaru gets like 26 combined and it doesnt even have a turbo!

[@thecraftycoder]

love mazdas. great video!

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you Lisa! :D

[@davidmcc6666]

I just fell in love. The girls ain't too bad, either. Great car. Hopefully we see the Turbo in Australia.Thanks, mate.

[@MotorMavens]

HAHA! So glad to have people watching my videos in Australia! Hope to visit there someday! Maybe next year when we can travel again!

[@davidmcc6666]

@@MotorMavens I'll be coming, mate. Thanks.

[@MotorMavens]

@@davidmcc6666 awesome!

[@Kazkun17]

Loved the detailed and honest review! Also, you got some really sick shots of the interior. Great pacing.

[@MotorMavens]

with an interior like that, it's not difficult to make it look good! Thank you for commenting!

[@jonathanlawrence6028]

Thought this video on the new Mazda 3 Turbo is the best one I’ve seen....and I’ve seen them all!! Very well done...could see this guy having a tv show it was on point!! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@MotorMavens]

Wow, thanks! What a compliment!!! :O

[@Motolyric]

Awesome Video! I love the details and information you shared.

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you so much!!! I appreciate you!

[@bodyemcal]

i cant believe i actually want one of these. i am a hardcore mustang guy

[@juniorasprer2235]

Wow....awesome. My wife has 2018. I need to go test drive this one - junior

[@MotorMavens]

You're gonna LOVE this one! It's FAST. It handles real well... super nimble. The interior leather and audio makes you feel like you're in a new Lexus. I really dig it... as long as I don't need to sit in the back.

[@thatoneguy3284]

Ive made some great times with this car. If you are in Los Angeles, hit up Tuna Canyon for some fun

[@johnhlomax]

Great video man, my Mazda was dead on reliable, and loads of fun.

[@MotorMavens]

Awesome, thank you so much Lomax! Which Mazda did you have?

[@johnlomax1163]

@@MotorMavens The 2001 Protege5, great car, also owned an FC, fun ride, but not as reliable.

[@MotorMavens]

@@johnlomax1163 I used to have an FC too! What color was yours??? Was it a TII??

[@fabrycekutyba123]

Well done- good content- interesting to us car guys and I am sure to the average person too- ! Congrats Antonio!

[@MotorMavens]

Glad you enjoyed it! So what you're telling me is that car guys are not average? haha!

[@DynamicAutosports]

Great job, love the intro and the video. Can't wait to see more of your videos!

[@MotorMavens]

I really appreciate it! I'm trying to be more consistent in dropping videos on this channel!

[@FocusFN122]

Definitely a great vehicle. Great job in the video. I was engaged the whole way.

[@MotorMavens]

Right on! I'm glad!

It is a great car. She certainly likes feeling it. Is your friend going to have the big "0"? Aside from that, your review is comprehensive.

[@MotorMavens]

LOL! the car certainly didn't complain ;)

[@richlavigne1505]

Great video... I can't wait to see the TCR race version of this car in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge race and I hope it comes to iRacing.

[@MotorMavens]

DUDE YESSSSSS!!!! I want to shoot the Mazda3 TCR at IMSA races sooo bad!

[@hardlinelandco.3059]

What a rad video!! Definitely do more please!

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you so much! Hmmmm.... I have some ideas we can collab on! I'll hit you up later!

[@DriftJam]

It’d be interesting to see if Mazda fields the 3 in Motorsports especially in drifting (since it falls into the rules of having a AWD but can be changed to RWD according to rules). Good work on the content Antonio.

[@MotorMavens]

Oh dang... DRIFTING?! Never even thought of this car in the drifting arena. I'm not sure we'll see that.... UNLESS.... imagine this 2.5 turbo engine (reconfigured so that it's longitudinal instead of transverse) in a RWD platform.... MX5 maybe? Now THAT would be super fun.

[@DriftJam]

MotorMavens if a 2020 Corolla is considered a contender in a professional series, why wouldn’t a Mazda? It’s been a minute since Mazda has had a modern chassis in pro drifting. Are you listening Mazda? ;)

[@MotorMavens]

@@DriftJam hahaha TRUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU

[@freedomworks7897]

I have had this vehicle since launch day the steering is great and all wheel drive is amazing the interior is nice but there are still people ahead like the new Hyundai ‘s. The launch is amazing off the line and at dead stop but the power quickly dies down that’s one thing that I wish they would have worked on his full power delivery through the whole rev range. I can’t wait for a tune

[@MotorMavens]

Ooo keep us updated after you tune it!

[@tripleh9940]

Thanks for the video. I’m trying to decide between the turbo, the manual, or a previous gen with a manual. The non-turbo with an auto is meh. I’m glad that I’m not the only one who doesn’t like the black color wheels. I actually prefer the grey ones on the lower trims better.

[@MotorMavens]

YES. I kinda hate black gloss wheels... especially on white cars. Looks super low end to me, and it is super UNphotogenic. I don't know your financial situation and lifestyle, but if it were me... I'd go with the turbo all the way. Even with the automatic. Sooooo fun!

[@TamerOmran]

Antonio dope video. You look like you are having fun.

[@MotorMavens]

definitely! I'm always having fun Tamer!

[@Loooooooooooooooool]

Love mine so far. I traded in a 2013 genesis coupe. The only things I miss is my 6-speed transmission and exhaust sound. The genesis coupe's 3.8 V6 had an awesome exhaust note, this mazda is silent.

[@CabreraJB]

Same here - polymetal grey / red interior Turbo premium plus hatchback. Absolutely feels and drives more like an entry luxury car (BMW 2 series, Mercedes A220, etc) than a mainstream segment brand

[@streetglow5874]

Thanks for creating some great content

[@MotorMavens]

My pleasure! Thank YOU!

[@bebea3766]

Looking good everyone! This looks like so much fun! I miss events 😩.

[@MotorMavens]

Hi Bebe!!! What have you been up to lately?

[@TakaRiau]

Great content. Going to share it on the SoS Media page!

[@MotorMavens]

Awesome!! Thank youuuuu

[@swright5690]

Solid work! Just the right amount of narration, technical information, driving and views of the car. I think the Mazda 3 Turbo (hatch or sedan) is the bargain of the year in the segment. GTI is dead to me (new dash design is terrible). $33K for that kind of power and interior/exterior design is worth every penny. I'd trade my 2012 VW 2.5L Beetle (30K miles!) for a 3 HB Turbo in a heartbeat if was actually needing a car right now. But we use our car 2-3 times a month and I just can't justify changing cars right now. I wish they offered the white leather in the HB is my only gripe.

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you so much for your feedback, Stuart! I haven’t driven the new GTI yet... I also want to see the white leather in the Mazda 3 sedan! I didn’t realize that the white leather wasn’t offered in the hatchback. Is that what Mazda’s site says?? I’ll have to check it out!

[@swright5690]

@@MotorMavens Pretty sure the last time I looked at the configurator, white was not an option on the HB. I am sure the GTI is hoot to drive but the new dash is hideous. If I have to swipe and poke a screen to adjust the fan speed, then that car is dead to me. That and the carbon fouling issue on their direct injection motors killed the GTI for me.

[@MotorMavens]

@@swright5690 oh wow, now you got me curious about the GTI. I wanna see it.

[@fredinocencio8057]

Good work Antonio!

[@MotorMavens]

thank you Fred!

[@lordkent8143]

You know what, this gen Mazda 3 hatchback is really a two door masquerading as a four door for convenience. Realistically, you don't wanna carry more than one passenger. I feel the weight when people sit in the back of mine.

[@MotorMavens]

Hmm... I agree with that. I probably wouldn't want anyone sitting behind me if I were the driver. Maybe 3 people in the car max!

[@leodiaz4684]

Not your old gen Mazda 3... what an upgrade!

[@MotorMavens]

Trying to figure out which car I should try to review in Miami! 🔥🔥🔥

[@leodiaz4684]

@@MotorMavens for Miami a convertible is a must...

[@MotorMavens]

@@leodiaz4684 LMAO. it would be funny if we drove a Murano convertible through calle ocho and HID our faces from people. hahahahahahhahahaha

[@steveybones]

Great content, I actually love what Mazda is doing with this but I’m still not sure why they don’t bring back the speed 3!!!

[@MotorMavens]

They just brought this design to the market recently. I'm guessing they'll make a Mazdaspeed 3 hatch later (hopefully). The interesting thing is they debuted the TCR race car already, and it looks gangster. I ran GMR with the Mazda 3 sedan on Saturday, and Angeles Crest yesterday. I'll probably run Mulholland or ACH or something today. Or maybe Route 74 in OC if I can go get a helmet at Sparco!

[@theonlyvanimal]

Great overview! That interior is sexy!!

[@MotorMavens]

RIGHT?! The interior on this Mazda3 Turbo makes me feel like I'm in an upscale European car! So awesome.

[@ak2112]

That's some gnarly steering around the 9:35 mark

[@MotorMavens]

haha

[@Lat41]

This car crushes it

[@MotorMavens]

It’s so awesome! I’m driving the sedan version right now!

[@Lat41]

@@MotorMavens I have not been this interested in a new car in many many years. For me it’s a perfect fit.

[@HunterSwift]

Keep it up!

[@MotorMavens]

That's the plan! Thank you sir!

[@BIGEUROtv]

Love the content!

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you so much!!! We need to do some sort of collab!!!

[@jasonsakurai7926]

Done. Shared on FB Antonio.

[@MotorMavens]

THANK YOUUUUUU!!!!

[@HeadDress]

For real. Test drove it then drove it home.👍

[@MotorMavens]

Oooo! What color did you get???

[@HeadDress]

@@MotorMavens Polymetal with the Premium Plus trim!

[@MotorMavens]

@@HeadDress hell yeah! Beautiful!

[@compavion]

I like like like like like like like the car

[@MotorMavens]

I like it too! I'm test driving the sedan version right now!

[@EDGEDAZZA]

Oh you so popular with teh ladiez

[@MotorMavens]

Lmao I wish

[@galacticmaui2]

@2:55 If your comparing $32k Mazda3 to a 22k Civic then yes the civics steering is less satisfying and weighted. But if you compare that $32k Mazda to a $26k Si or $37k Type R then that argument falls flat.

[@MotorMavens]

I guess I better test drive a CTR!

[@FreshTillDeath56]

I have yet to test drive the cars personally so I can't speak for the steering, but I think the argument for Mazda's value can be won in SEVERAL other places!

[@lancesugiyama4290]

Tell your friend I said what uppppp

[@MotorMavens]

LMAO. You are so awesome. hahahahahahaha

[@iamnotinarush]

Great review!

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you so much!

[@ZenGarage]

Subscribed!

[@MotorMavens]

Thank youuuuu!

[@pauldaniel6208]

Nice content with good level of detail. Subscribed!

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you so much Paul! I hope to spend some time with the sedan version next! I'll make a video about that if I can get it!

[@pauldaniel6208]

@@MotorMavens Excellent, looking forward to it! I am trying to decide between the Mazda 3 (hatch or sedan) and the Subaru WRX as a daily driver, so the more info the better :)

[@MotorMavens]

@@pauldaniel6208 oooo. My brother has a newer WRX as a daily, and I LOVE his car... except the clutch is ridiculously hard that it hurts my knee after a while. Are you looking for MT or AT? I want to check out the SEDAN Mazda 3 soon! I'll ask Subaru about the WRX too.

[@pauldaniel6208]

@@MotorMavens I am thinking CVT for that reason, and so my wife can drive it as well.

[@MotorMavens]

@@pauldaniel6208 oh mannn. After she drives this thing, she may not want to give your keys back. haha

[@nickstonawski4454]

Extremely well detailed review. 👍🏻

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you so much sir! Can't wait to get your car on the channel!!!

[@henizwhoa]

Dope content Antonio. Does this new model come in manual transmission?

[@MotorMavens]

Yes she does!

[@danrr9498]

Yeah but only automatic has the turbo.

[@MotorMavens]

@@danrr9498 That's true. Same thing can be said about the R35 GTR, it's automatic. Of course I wish there was a 6spd MT option, but the Turbo 3 is still fun! Considering it as a daily driver... but the size of the CX30 or CX5 can accommodate my camera gear more easily

[@theimprovementsguy8871]

Steering feels better because they beefed up the steering arms

[@MotorMavens]

Ah! That would make sense!

[@ManCaveStudio]

This will be my next car when they include a manual in the sedan with all the same options as above. Its almost perfect.

[@MotorMavens]

they do have a manual option, but sadly, it's only available in the non turbo model. I'm test driving the turbo sedan right now, and it's suuuuper fun!

[@Dongzzzzzz]

carbuzz.com/news/here-s-why-the-new-mazda6-turbo-won-t-come-with-a-manual Apparently, Mazda was targeting smooth and gradual torque delivery that didn't pair well with a manual. Mazda's current manual transmission, which was built to handle the torque of the European diesel engine, just couldn't handle the massive torque of this new turbo engine. In fact, this new Mazda6 has one of the highest torque figure of any FWD car on sale today. In order to prevent torque steer, Mazda made numerous changes to the suspension and steering, as well as the torque delivery.

[@ManCaveStudio]

@@Dongzzzzzz I will take the Mazda 3 or 6 AWD sedan in a turbo manual. Both are beautiful. I like that they are targeting a more mature audience. While the WRX would challenge the Mazda the WRX is too boy racer for my taste. I like and prefer the direction Mazda is heading. Classy comfortable but with some sportiness for the grown-ups that still like to row their own gears.

[@MotorMavens]

@@Dongzzzzzz ahhhh

[@athomas2k8]

Hey Antonio, great video! What song is that in the beginning intro of the car?

[@MotorMavens]

Thank you! Actually I don’t remember the song but I’ll try to find out and get back to you!

[@athomas2k8]

@@MotorMavens awesome thanks man! Keep up the great work!

[@MotorMavens]

@@athomas2k8 thank you so much for watching and commenting! 🙏🙏🙏 we are working on editing some fun new vids!

[@xpatriarch22]

good review

[@MotorMavens]

thank you thon! more to come soon!

[@panthersfan3168]

Do you believe this engine and turbo design will lead to better longevity with this car?

[@MotorMavens]

I dont have much experience with Mazda engines, but I hope so!

[@panthersfan3168]

@@MotorMavens how many miles were on the car when you were doing the spirited driving? Just asking if the break in period is real

[@MotorMavens]

@@panthersfan3168 i dont remember to be honest, but I think the mileage was low. REAL low. Like prob a few hundred miles if that

[@jjchockey]

Definitely not a hot hatch. More of an Audi A3 competitor rather than the hot versions like the S3/Golf R. Veloster N, GTi, Mazda speed 3, Focus ST and Civic Si are hot cars. They are much more driver focused, this is much more luxury focused.

[@MotorMavens]

@John actually you're totally right about that. Mazda was targeting the A3 buyer in this particular segment. Good point! I think I need to test drive the Veloster N again... I've never driven a Civic Type R either. Would love to have the opportunity to try them out on the track!

[@bbehzadi413]

Hopefully a manual comes out

[@MotorMavens]

that would be awesome!

[@zumezoom9593]

views with comments but no subscribers?

[@MotorMavens]

got a few subs off the newer vids!

[@tjcben1]

I had a 323 gtx that was a blast till it developed the dreaded crank nose wobble..this one's too pretty to drive rough..lol

[@MotorMavens]

damnnnn cool, you had one?! did you rally it or what?

[@hbrhbr7113]

Sad you cannot buy this turbo version in Europe... love this car but non turbo version feel a bit boring to drive. This Turbo option is the cherry on top of the cake.

[@MK3Richvr6]

Can I put a Blow Off Valve on it..I just wanna hear it whistle to me

[@mahdavimail]

Monthly payment on this car is almost the same as germans here in Canada. And it’s not az refined as germans. So you decide...🤷🏻‍♂️

[@TheTemplarnight]

What do you mean? It’s a 35k car here the comparable Audi S3 or A35 are both 45k+ their monthly’s aren’t even comparable

[@MotorMavens]

also depends on how long you plan to keep the German car

[@mahdavimail]

@@MotorMavens I would prefer base model german ones over this overpriced mazda even for longterm and even if it’s a bit more expensive. I don’t see anything special with Mazda and it’s quality. Btw I have a Civic and a Mercedes to compare. Both of them beat this mazda in different ways imo.

[@MotorMavens]

@@mahdavimail well everyone is entitled to their own opinions. :) I like Mercedes and Honda too... but I do love driving this quick, super responsive handling Mazda 3 Turbo!

[@mrraymond99]

I liked some of the info you gave on the Mazda but your camera angles stink! It’s either the mirror in the way or the A pillar. Fix that up and your vids will be some of the best! 👍

[@racemode]

Alright settle your a$$ down .lol

[@madjay995]

If someone is tailgating you move to the right lane! dont be an asshole.

[@Bear_Arms]

The girl needs her own channel, she would make a killing. She's smokin' hot.

[@jvcarter21]

Fuk all that what's her @ bruh? Lol

[@peterrhoads1672]

Turning radius is shit on that car. I own one

[@MotorMavens]

odd, I thought it was pretty good! but maybe my other cars just have shittier turning radius

[@webguy943]

Hot car hot girl. That’s all u need. :)

[@biglizardmedia]

I came here to POV some canyon running with this car, and all you did was talk. Why tf would you title the video "Canyon Running" when you show us like 30 seconds of a stupid down angle outside the car into the cabin when doing the thing you advertised doing.

[@MrWalker1000]

whats the girls IG?

[@MotorMavens]

lmao posted it on our ig

[@testing448]

I hate the fact that she looks like my ex

[@duck8280]

my supra gets better MPG

[@MotorMavens]

what kinda supra?

[@duck8280]

@@MotorMavens A90! They should make a speed version of the 3 :]

[@MotorMavens]

@@duck8280 I bet that's gonna happen... but for sure not in the first year they release it! :D