2021 Mazda3 Turbo | Two Sides to This Story

[@vlads2874]

You're saying it'll be hard for people to accept that this is a more comfy ride and not zoom zoom. That is exactly what I want - an upscale hatch that is quiet, comfortable, and a pleasure to drive.

[@Dunewarrior00]

Exactly, me too. I don't want a track toy, I want a small refined hatch that's fun to drive. Not a lot of those in North America.

[@Volfas]

I do want zoom zoom 😔

[@realalsenor]

@@Volfas get a go cart.

[@Gruuvin1]

Mazda3 used to be the ZoomZoom, and that's what I want out of it today! Let the Mazda6 be more refined, and let the Mazda3 be hot (the way it used to be when Mazda was awesome). Honda gets it. Mazda doesn't.

[@dcal4455]

@@Gruuvin1 Unfortunately sales and revenue is what matters and they have found that by being a premium, good looking and comfortable is what is working for them.

[@jjchockey]

People who are saying this car is overpriced need a reality check. This car is an absolute bargain. $29,900 gets you an AWD sedan, 250HP 320TQ, leather heated seats, LED lighting all around with auto high beams, 7” digital gauges, 8.8” NAV with CarPlay, windshield projected heads up display, sunroof, amazing Bose sound system, extremely nice quiet interior, refined ride, elegant upscale looks inside and out, and safety features like blind spot monitors radar cruise and emergency braking. You have to spend 36k in a GTI, 33K in a WRX, or 40K+ In an A3, A220, or 228i to get these features that come Standard on the Mazda. This car is anything but overpriced.

[@johntechwriter]

The new 3 is not competing with the cars you mention, nor even pretending too. Think more along the lines of Civic and Corolla. Buyers of those cars (a) know nothing about sport driving; and (b) sweat every additional $25/month a slightly more expensive econobox would cost them.

[@2004cyrus]

@@johntechwriter I agree with your comment except the $25/mo part only because I’m seriously looking at this car and at $29,900 it surpasses what my budget would be if I was sweating the $25. If I was, and I have in the past, I’d be looking at a base model 3. I’m at a point now where I’ve saved and this car will be a choice. A more affordable choice than the German entry level entries. Hopefully people spending $30-$34k for this have surpassed the low budget econoboxes. Maybe I’m wrong but that’s just me. I fully expect to be around $650/mo with several thousand down. I hope this comment made some sense. And again, maybe I’m out of touch and totally wrong.

[@jjchockey]

It is trying to compete with entry level luxury. Mazda said so themselves and if you have ever been in the 2019+ 3 you would immediately see and feel that this cars interior is well above any Civic or Corolla and on par with some entry level luxury cars. The interior is even nicer then the ILX or IS300 and more comfortable then something like an A3.

[@JL-rj9fl]

@@jjchockey It is definitely not a nicer interior than the IS300, but the Mazda interior is very nice! I would definitely agree on the A3, but can't comment on the ILX, no experience with that one. I submit to you that nobody looking at entry level luxury is cross-shopping a Mazda anyway - they want the premium badge. :)

[@jjchockey]

@@JL-rj9fl The Mazda interior is certainly on par with the IS and imo it is nicer. The IS uses cheap feeling materials on the dashboard and doesn’t have as many plush soft touch materials on the doors and armrest like the Mazda. The design is also very dated and cluttered. The road amend wind noise is also worse on the Lexus. The ILX is easily a step below the Mazda even the Civic gives the dated ILX a run for its money. The Audi definitely has a more solid build quality and nice tactility to its buttons but again doesn’t use as many soft touch materials as the Mazda and the seats are very uncomfortable. It really sucks that people aren’t considering this car. I think Mazda needs to set up drive events and such so people can actually sit in and drive them more. It offers 95% of the Luxury, looks, refinement, and driving dynamics of an A3 for over 10K Cheaper. People are stupid lol.

[@steve8032]

I always love getting goosed before 9am.

[@atypical_blk_guy]

That's nasty "in my Cleveland voice" lol

[@RexenPrime]

😯

[@tlf361]

Don't tell that to a Canadian

[@buchajo]

@@tlf361 Canadian here.... lol

[@brianm5060]

Savagely goosed 😩

[@tiramisu327]

I am actually glad they didn’t make this a sporty car. Like Jack said 95% of the time you’re stuck behind in traffic anyways. This car was made to be a street weapon not a track monster. If it was made for lap times, you will be complaining about its rough rides and expensive brake pads/dust/noise. Goes back to how James May was complaining how cars tested on the Nurburgring are crap for the street

[@Xenon0000000000001]

While I agree that you don't need a track weapon for the street, I do prefer a car with a sporty feeling even for daily driving tasks. For instance, if the steering is fast and precise it's so much nicer performing simple turns without constantly having to shuffle the wheel around. Plus, it's just feels nicer to me when a car responds to my inputs directly, even if I am in traffic. It's not like any modern hot hatch is actually uncomfortable in normal day to driving (give or take a crazy track focused car).

[@Gearbhall]

A McLaren 720S manages to be sporty while also riding like a Rolls. That is an extreme example, but I don't buy into the idea that a road car being sporty automatically makes it a worse road car.

[@markmiller3279]

@@Gearbhall Such cars all have expensive, complicated active suspension technologies that aren't realistic on a car in this price class.

[@buytheredcar]

They're making excuses for Mazda. These guys have no spine. They're desperate for subs and OEM relationships

[@buchajo]

@@buytheredcar a little dramatic me thinks...

[@gadeane287]

Mark, you had me at 'no auto start/stop.'

[@kingchakazulu7762]

Lost me at no manual.

[@jrag1000]

Yeah, that auto start-stop shit has got to be the dumbest engineering feature ever put in a car. I will NEVER buy a car with auto start-stop.

[@Joe_Brig]

@@jrag1000 So you will never buy an electric car?

[@jrag1000]

@Henrik lol, see that's retarded, why would engineers put start-stop on a vehicle that is 4 cyl and gets 27 miles per gallon in the city 33 on the hwy? That's the dumbest design ever put on a car.

[@jrag1000]

@@Joe_Brig an electric car operates differently than a gas powered car. Less mechanical parts. Combustion engines don’t like being repeatedly fired up.

[@jtocher685]

Funny how today's levels of performance are so unappreciated. At 14.3 sec (0-100mph) this car is as fast as the Porsche 928 GTS and faster than the Lamborghini Countach LP400S from back in the day. And despite the 'softness' I'd wager it will beat either of those two cars on the track too! It's a comfortable, fuel efficient family hatchback...not sure what there is to complain about!

[@darrelund4110]

@Ed Findlay i wont say they sell at a loss, but its profit margin are very small

[@robertclarizio1544]

Love / Hate. Good "umpfff"... Poor transmission / downshift - horrible "Settings" capabilities - Mazda knows best. :-(

[@X11CHASE]

And if my grandmother had wheels she’d be a bicycle…

[@peterslobodzian2116]

@@darrelund4110heard their hatch sales have plummeted last few years….they want to remedy that….last try, maybe

[@jswizzlestick]

With this interior and engine I feel like this is the most German Japanese car you can buy

[@jesuschristislord77733]

G

[@jesuschristislord77733]

A

[@jesuschristislord77733]

Y

[@dsugioaga]

Except this will (hopefully) not fall apart after it's six months out of warranty...

[@agreatd]

@@dsugioaga dae hate non Japanese cars?

[@ryankwan1934]

A quick update. My wife drove one as we are still looking for something to replace her Golf R. Her commentary was that it felt like a "Japanese Volvo". To my mind, that's pretty high praise because she really liked the V60. Mazda, give us the damn Mazda 6 wagon. Are you listening? Canadians, we buy wagons!

[@MrShadowbquick]

I’d absolutely love to see the Mazda 6 Wagon come to the states, I love wagons too and I’d love to see a manual wagon from my favorite company ^-^

[@afcgeo882]

Funny how she drove a Golf R and not a Volvo then. Volvos are certainly premium and safe, but engaging and fun they are not.

[@ryankwan1934]

@@afcgeo882 At the time she wanted a smaller car. Now we need something larger.

[@MrViyasan]

Ahh it was infuriating as a Canadian, when travelling in New Zealand that I saw the Mazda 6 wagon. If it sold here I would have bought it right away, even at MSRP

[@messiahmessias]

Funny how you canadians want wagons and here in Finland im waiting for the AWD version of the 3

[@nickemangione]

i love this. i love that a manufacturer is still developing high quality cars when financially there is very little to gain. Mazda going up market is a great move in my opinion.

[@johntechwriter]

Famous last words.

[@2004cyrus]

That’s a wonderful and accurate point

[@entertained...]

mazda is still by and large a niche brand and they either went the route they did, or get left behind; it was a smart move, but i don't think they really had much of a choice. the competition in that segment demands better offerings and mazda doesn't have a luxury brand that buyers can move up to, unlike toyota, honda, and hyundai/kia.

[@buytheredcar]

How are they upmarket? Its all parts bin cars. No innovation.

[@2004cyrus]

@@buytheredcar you obviously don’t know anything and enjoy driving a Chevy Cruze. Talk about parts bin. The Mazda hatchback is brand new. New infotainment screen, red leather, and packed with metal speaker covers and other innovation. Go educate yourself before making the worlds stupidest comments. Sheesh. I bet you are a joy to be around.

[@newenglandstacker]

There is a market for daily drivers.

[@buchajo]

It’s a hoot of a daily driver too!!

[@acchaladka]

@@mezzb Sounds reasonable. Maybe it's irrelevant, but i don't understand why i should get the 3 turbo instead of a GTI. I guess maybe because it takes low octane fuel and less complication.

[@joeyn177]

@@acchaladka That's exactly what I realized before I decided on a mk7.5 GTI to replace my 3rd gen Mazda 3. I'm pretty sure the GTI can run 87 octane too but it'll lose some performance like the Mazda 3.

[@SparklingWalrus]

no every car needs a hellcat engine VRRMM VROOMNN

[@HeavyMetalorRockfan9]

@@acchaladka there are at least a couple reasons to get the 3 Turbo over a GTI: 1) maintenance costs and fueling costs 2) general refinement, the interior of the car at 70mph is tested as being at 56 Db, luxury cars do this between 54-56 do its right in that space. 3) comfortable seats for long road trips 4) an interior that feels special as opposed to clinical 5) AWD is an added benefit for winter Basically with the GTI you have a reasonably good daily driver that is also much more fun to drive. With a Mazda3 turbo you have an excellent daily driver with that's just slightly more fun than the economy car version

[@pushslice]

Q: what did the bottle of Mexican sauce say? A: ‘soy sauce’

[@DanielJW247]

Haha, I needed some seconds to get it.

[@jessyruiz1934]

I just bought this car. Coming from an 08 Lexus IS250 I have to say I’m very happy. It checked off all the boxes for me with the interior/exterior, slighter better performance, and the price!

[@jasonstarr7335]

How’s the road noise and rough pavement characteristics? Thinking of getting one but I do long road trips.

[@Stranaton]

@@jasonstarr7335 decently quiet in terms of road noise. the seats are soft and comfy, I'm guessing partly to offset the bigger 18 inch wheels. The factory Bridgestones are garbage, I blew out a sidewall 2 days into having the car. I switched to DWS06+ all seasons and have been fine since then. If you have a lead foot, this car will devour gas. I expected some of it from the AWD and turbo, but not to this extent. The gas tank is also smaller in the AWD trims compared to FWD. I get about 290 miles range (commuting) from full to "0 miles" range, but it seems to keep about 2 and a half gallons in reserve.

[@whatwasthat7912]

I’m coming from 08 Lexus IS250, really loving it rn! Compare to 08 IS250, this thing is blast to drive to me. It might because of my IS was rwd, but this Mazda is definitely an amazing vehicle for daily, and backroads once in a while!

[@alcovitch]

@@Stranaton I get roughly 290 miles in a 16 year old civic. This seems perfectly fine to me

[@GloXum]

I literally have the same Lexus but contemplating if I should upgrade haha

[@jaspreetsidhu5708]

This review was actually what sold me on this car. Love the look, the way it drives, and the way it feels. I'm a guy in his mid 20's no kids, and a dog, perfect car to suite my needs. I've driven BMW's and Mercedes before honestly it drives like my older 3 series with a refined interior. Everything feels nice to the touch and enough power, great mileage, and mazda reliability is only increasing.

[@eric97909]

How is it 5 months later? Any issues, or still chugging along perfectly?

[@vaibhavchaudhary27]

@@eric97909 I'd like to know too.

[@tpad6]

Bump

[@jaspreetsidhu5708]

Hey guys cars chugging along perfectly I did buy the crystal soul red and have had some paint chips going on. The car itself has still been a joy to drive every day. I really do love the cabin, no squeaks, everything is soft to the touch. The AWD system is great I live in Canada we've had tonnes of snow cars been great even when others have gotten stuck I've been fine. Stock tires aren't the best but I swapped to some cross climates 2's and they've been really good tires for any conditions. Gas mileage is nothing to brag about but when driven with a light foot its surprisingly economical. I'm averaging around 7.8-8.3 mixed (when I drive and pay attention it's about 6.2-7.2. Maintaining it has been cheap. Normal routine services and no issues at all. I've taken the vehicle on a few road trips and I've put about 20,000km on the vehicle and really have enjoyed all of it. Bose audio has some nice bass, no rattle which is really nice. Heated seats, nav, heads up display are really nice.

[@eric97909]

@@jaspreetsidhu5708 Awesome, thanks!

[@autonewstv86]

*The front looks like it could be part of a super car. Really handsome* 😍

[@kilovwdude6457]

Maybe stick to your opinions on car *interiors*

[@WarriorsPhoto]

You're right. It is nice looking and the interior is elegant.

[@ArtVandelayOfficial]

Yeah they hit it out of the park on thid model Upmarket design

[@j.3854]

True. Then you get to the rear. 🤢

[@markmiller3279]

Mazda has definitely figured out a good corporate front end - which they apply to everything. Nissan is doing the same. Now I just wish Toyota and Honda would figure this out. Seriously ugly snout there.

[@fadedlogic1]

Jack is clearly still upset about the soy sauce rationing instituted by Mark.

[@markmiller3279]

It's not a kind of car Jack likes. Mark does a better job of putting his personal tastes aside and judging cars at how well they meet the needs of their intended buyers. I agree that once this started reaching the mid-30s in price it was getting into an awkward zone. It's undeniably a nice car and very capable, but it's also fairly small, and not from a luxury brand.

[@wigletron2846]

@@markmiller3279 yea, mid 30s is way too much for this. At that price it competes with cars it shouldn't be competing with

[@Chironex_Fleckeri]

I think the car is most attractive in the mid-high $20k's range. For ~27,500 it's a real consideration. For 35,000... hmm..

[@panzer_TZ]

I’m the target demographic. I’m an engineer in my mid twenties who could get the smaller/lower level luxury cars if I wanted to. I want something nice, comfortable, and fun to drive but don’t give a shit about a badge. Mazda’s cars fit right in for me. I drive a CX-30, and to me it handles and drives amazing. I don’t understand this obsession with Mazdaspeed. There is a fellow in my complex who has a Mazdaspeed3. He doesn’t take his shit to track, and I probably drive more aggressive and at faster speeds than he does. I see no reason for Mazda to waste their time on sacrificing comfort and luxury when at most you’re going be smoking some asshole in a pick up truck every so often and putt putt at speed limit 99% of the time.

[@krystiankukulski8054]

100% agree!

[@buchajo]

Exactly. This car is just as fast as the original Mazdaspeed3 and far more refined. I once had a 10 Mazda3 and the difference in 10 years is incredible. Everything - and I mean everything- has been taken up a few notches. The 10 3 was fun to drive just as the current gen is but the newer version feels all around better in so many ways.

[@Belal-Khan]

I agree, but there should be a balance. I'm in a similar spot and went with the GTI instead. It has the refinement, great interior etc, but also has the performance and handling when I can drive it a bit harder. I came from a Mazdaspeed 6 before the GTI. If Mazda made a new mazdaspeed 3 I would 100% consider it.

[@savagegeese]

Its because Mazda changed their brand image from "fun" to "premium." Then instead of showing fun cars in ads its models building wine and cheese bars with their CX30. They are changing genres and the long time Mazda fans...

[@Bargawd]

@@savagegeese I think the "fun" "zoom zoom" marketing around their cars spoke to enthusiasts in the past, but the average consumer had no clue what that meant. They were affordable cars in a sea of other affordable cars. Their new PrEmIuM branding speaks to the masses and sets them apart from Honda, Toyota etc. and they're comfortable alienating their base if that means racks on racks on racks.

[@matthewalbers31]

Jack's facial expression says - "I hate this car'

[@buchajo]

Ya..... his Ferrari face was long gone. It screamed get me outta here even if it is to McDonald’s!

[@corderomccargo4500]

Does he?

[@kenhoward3512]

I'd say he made it clear, he doesn't "hate" this car at all. He is not *enthused* that Mazda has veered toward making the 3 more comfortable for every day driving situations, with more power in the rpm range where we find ourselves 99% of the time. It's clearly not a "performance car." For most people, that's far from meaning it deserves hate, especially from those over a certain age who can afford a well-performing, comfortable and stylish, mid-$30k new car with Mazda reliability (though they may prefer the CX30 Turbo).

[@tibidt]

@@kenhoward3512 I agree with what you are saying, and I would add to that: most people would be too fat, too tall or too old for this car and they would go for CX30 or even the CX5 :(. Which is a shame because this is a better car in some aspects, like newer and better (more premium) interior.

[@raullasvegas]

Jack appreciates German design and philosophy. Japanese design and philosophy is different. People can appreciate both, but you rarely find a guy with an M3 and a Lexus. The guy driving the M5 also has a Rolex. The guy in the LC500 is sporting a Grand Seiko, not a Rolex. They are different people.

[@basithph8958]

You have to give it to Mazda for not using a CVT especially with the Mazda3 Turbo It would have been worse

[@johntechwriter]

Mazda are the anti-Nissan. The irony is, they're both broke. But we know who the good guy is.

[@runespaze]

@@johntechwriter Mazda seems to have always wanted to push the envelope for the sake of its customer base. Nissan is Walmart but for cars

[@mikevictor]

One of the reasons I buy Mazda over the others, I can't stand driving CVT cars and won't get one for my wife

[@basithph8958]

@@mikevictor yeah in a way it's a good thing But for Mazda if it's the Miata or even the Mazda3 definitely would be a manual but the Mazda3 Turbo is actually worth looking at But definitely a traditional auto over a CVT all day any day

[@mikevictor]

@@basithph8958 I drove a 2020 CX-5 a couple of weeks ago. Good example of a mid size SUV matched with a solid Automagic trans

[@walkr7998]

wish geese reviewed every car. seriously the best.

[@botis3104]

this.

[@butt5810]

he should review a goose on april fools day

[@buytheredcar]

All they do is make excuses. No real opinions. They don't want to upset the OEMs.

[@23Shadowfox23]

@MrGhost370 completely agree, but idk if you know it, but carwow also has some great reviews - while it is a bit more commercial tho

[@botis3104]

@MrGhost370 Meh, I believe Yuri though. He definitely isn't shy about saying what he does and doesn't like. I think the new BMW grills are terrible, but like a lot of weird car designs, once your brain adjusts to it over time, it'll look more and more normal and before you know it you'll forget that you disliked it at one point. I've always been a straight pipes fan, but I'm sure their channel will unfortunately get worse as they've now gone over a million subs, and are still growing quickly. It's just inevitable :(

[@mumugugu8033]

I know I'm a minority, but this car seems to hit everything I'd want since I don't drive fast besides on highways. Hope its a bit more affordable though. edit: I don't know why being able to hear a 4-cylinder reved up is important for this car segment. Low end torque aligns with Mazda direction towards "premium". With the awesome sounds system, I'd rather have a quieter cabin and stronger pull as a daily driver.

[@limitlessart6817]

I love this, definitely getting one after my current one gives.

[@mikef5694]

100%

[@bach1750]

You know you're old when you hear someone say grandpa and 1980s in the same sentence and you get mildly nauseous.

[@2004cyrus]

Lol are you 40 yet ?

[@klaykid117]

The '80s will always feel like it was just 20 years ago but in reality it's been 40 years since 1980

[@Dowlphin]

In the 1980 I left a train at the wrong station.

[@eriknephrongfr8847]

Class of ‘83. Ugh.

[@RK-db4oq]

@@eriknephrongfr8847 85. Double ugh.

[@daniellee003]

With the turbo model, I think Mazda was taking aim at cars like the Audi A3 and the Mercedes CLA (and perhaps the new A-class). If you equip the german counterparts with the a la carte "premium" features that come standard with the Mazda 3 Turbo (e.g. 360 camera, Connected Services, Traffic Jam Assist, HUD, Heated Steering wheel), the Mazda is at least $10,000 cheaper. Yes, it's a very niche market, but it exists.

[@MLHunt]

It exists, but is it a big enough market to be profitable at the lower margins Mazda's pricing generates against cars like the A-Class etc.? Cars like this make sense either as gateways into the brand (Daimler-Benz, Audi) or as value propositions (Hyundai/Kia) but I'm not sure they work for Mazda with its overall product mix. Won't sell at enough volume to be sufficiently profitable, and won't be taken up by many younger drivers as an entry-level 'premium' vehicle, I fear. Which is too bad, because it is a fine car for what it is.

[@daniellee003]

​@@MLHunt I share your concern that the product is too niche to be profitable in the long run. Though, as a young consumer, I enjoy having an uncommon car that often gets compliments for its looks and interior. I actually think the 3 Turbo is a value proposition that fits between Hyundai Elantra and the Sonata with the key advantage of having AWD. I was between the Sonata N-line and the Turbo 3. In the end, I was willing to give up some trunk space and rear legroom for AWD (no torque steer), better looking front-end, and a lower price (~$2000 cheaper).

[@baohoaily]

Heck just looking at the prices in Canada. Another car that I like, but not at its price is the 2020 A-Spec ILX (and I read an article where the ILX is actually selling well?) no way in hell would I pick the ILX over this at the same $35K CAD.

[@sixdonuts]

I agree this has A LOT of value if you actually compare against similarly optioned cars.

[@PStewart28]

I have a 6th gen GTI and this seems like my next car. VW is not a great company and Audi is too expensive.

[@teqfreak]

I don't know. I actually really love the things that are considered a let down here. I have a Mazda 3 (from 2006) and a BMW 3 (from 2007). I love both cars and have them for different purposes. I always have loved the Mazda brand and for some reason it has a special place for me, because to me it always feel like they build things that make sense. And I love a good highway cruiser that has performance and doesn't make me pay ridiculous prices... and it sounds like this Mazda 3 Turbo is going to be that kind of car.

[@Koonce953]

I've had my Mazda 3 Turbo for a little over a week now. I'm a big dude that loves little cars, and a pretend "enthusiast" that likes to pretend I'm a racecar driver. I'm also 40-something with a family. I absolutely love my Mazda 3. It's so fun to drive but is still refined and not clunky. For me and what I was looking for, there was no comparison to the Golf R on fit, finish, and "livability" (if I just invented a word). Thanks for the review. Very good! My sticker was also $32K, not sure where they put an extra $3K in that one?? Anyway, I didn't go in a month or so ago thinking I was getting a Mazda 3. I ended up in love.

[@Ghengis415]

I recently did a long road trip with a friend in her car, and while it was a blast to drive, I couldn't find a comfortable seating position on the long highway stretches. I'm 6'1" 235 and found legroom width a little tight - you can't get the drivers seat far back enough to put your legs straight out in front of you, and my right knee makes contact with the side of the deep center console if I mansplain a bit.

[@mike.thomas]

Have always liked the ‘3’, and I love the engine cover cup holders.

[@jamesmedina2062]

🤣🤣🤣🤣Car and Driver told readers that engine heat was such a shameful waste. Cue to me thawing and warming Amy's burritos on my Ford Contour V6 intake manifold every night I went to work in Dish Network call center. Good memories! Your Chai latte will need a lid.

[@zhizhenglim630]

As soon as the Mazda 3 Turbo AWD was released, i knew i needed to wait for savagegeese's review on it. All other youtube car channels covered only the surface and addressed only the obvious. Thank you boss! Your video is finally here!

[@simplywonderful449]

You really need to read the enthusaist press TESTS - not just "reviews" of the car. This guy takes a couple drags down a country road, slowing for turns, but never takes the car to a proper track - even though the Autobahn Country Club is near at hand. TEST the car - don't just play "stoplight racer" and give up. This was disappointing to me as the owner of (currently) five Mazdas from an RX-7, 3-323GTX AWD Turbos and a Mazda3. He'd made up his mind before even starting to drive the car; no wonder the enhtusiast publishers came to a much different conclusion, but THEIR drivers are capable performance drivers, too.

[@klaykid117]

This is a higher trim of a commuter car not a race car there is no point to take it to a track

[@ervin7178]

@@simplywonderful449 I feel like this review is pretty consistent with the car and driver and r&t’s reviews on the car.

[@markmiller3279]

@@simplywonderful449 He had the car for two whole days, and you think he should have wasted one of them taking what is clearly a street-oriented car to a track? This doesn't even have wider tires than the regular Mazda3, or summer rubber, just ordinary economy car all-season tires. It also lacks any kind of sport suspension, or upgraded brakes. It's a nice ordinary AWD compact with more power, period. Mazda has been very clear that this isn't a performance car, and they're dead right. If a few nutjobs took them to tracks and had fun, good for them, but the mainstream reviews are making no claims for this as a sporty car.

[@2004cyrus]

You buying it ?

[@666chew]

Jack's facial expression: You woke me up for this?

[@jackholmes8105]

😂

[@jackanderson2773]

@@jackholmes8105 It may have been the soy sauce comment .....

[@EEAMD-co6nw]

funniest comment so far lmao

[@MatthewGaither]

As a premium feeling compact car I would call the new Turbo 3 a success. It's not trying to be an enthusiast or performance car and that's just fine. I would use it as a daily to go a long with a weekend toy / fun car in a heartbeat. Mazda3 Turbo for the weekday and MX-5 Miata for the weekends would be a usable, fun and relatively cheap to own garage pair.

[@762x69]

2:20 Jack sure does look different here 😏😂

[@revmatchtv]

Has he been introduced yet?

[@gs98999]

That’s Pedro, Napoleon’s best friend.

[@jackholmes8105]

Thats chin face our lovable live stream mod.

[@THESLlCK]

oh look it's mahmoud

[@4ft3rburn3r]

That's a sign that Jack is probably on his way out. Meet his new successor.

[@josefgordon7712]

Drool. What a bad ass looking "regular" car. Also pretty damn peppy.

[@timothycc711]

I see Savage Geese review. I watch. I love. I hit like button. I comment. Easy.

[@jamesmedina2062]

you sound like a Scotty Kilmer automaton fanboy

[@johnaitken7430]

My wife owns the100th ann version..it’s as you describe.

[@stapletonwill]

"Still not fast enough" Feel like I'm in the bubble bass episode of SpongeBob

[@CarsOfPennsylvania]

MORE PICKLESSSSSSSS

[@Julianna.Domina]

HE WAS HIDING THE HORSEPOWER UNDER HIS TOUNGE THE WHOLE TIME!

[@buchajo]

Define ‘fast’ :)

[@revmatchtv]

The styling and interior are fantastic for the segment.

[@dummyaccount9673]

Still waiting for your next video though

[@revmatchtv]

@@dummyaccount9673 In about 2 weeks. I’m in Canada for another week. Unfortunately someone very close passed away and I haven’t been able to work.

[@billymania11]

It's an interesting car that should work for a lot of people. The power is tuned to be useful for the point and shoot of city driving. This is where a slight excess of power helps you hustle the car in and out of lanes and avoid squeeze plays by other drivers. So using turbo power for those city modes sounds kind of smart.

[@thebarkingmouse]

I have a Mazda 3 Turbo 2021 I put 44,000 miles on it in the last year. And my expectations for the car were to be a reliable all wheel drive car that can handle some snow some ice. And still be fun. My prior car had been a Subaru Impreza hatchback, and I liked that car but the two major flaws were the CVT which I hated, and just no power. I think of my car is the tiniest GT car ever. It's not built to be ultimately quick or fast it's built to be very comfortable and to be able to go quickly when you want it to and still be comfortable. And for that it is awesome. I was looking at some BMWs and some Audis when the Mazda crossed my path. And I was so totally impressed with the little car that I got it. As my daily driver. The biggest weaknesses in the car I've noted are the brakes, they fade disturbingly quick, which I have addressed with mazda. The way the power drops off at the top end. It has great low-end torque and between say 2,000 and 5,000 RPM it makes driving super easy, but anything above 5000 it's just not even worth doing. Might as well short shift. Perhaps a slightly larger turbo or a different turbo architecture, or maybe a hybrid Turbo would completely transform that car. If you could keep making power above 5,000 I think it would go from being sprightly to downright quick. And it would make passing in the mountains, which is something I have to do quite a bit where you have very short passing zones, a bit easier. Also I'm not a huge fan of the low profile tires with 18-in wheels in the mountains. You really have to watch for potholes cuz you will destroy a tire. I absolutely love the non-touch screen infotainment system. It took me a couple of days to adjust to what the controls were and where they were but after that I don't have to look down ever. I can simply flip through modes and control everything that I want with my eyes still on the heads up display. For all the concerns with the rear torsion bar suspension, I haven't found that to hold me back at all. I regularly Drive the Dragon & similar roads with about 300 lb of gear ( I do independent it contracting, and I carry basically everything I need with me in the car). Obviously I never really push it on public roads, but I found it to understeer slightly but other than that to be very predictable and you can settle the understeer with a little bit of throttle. Personally I love the Mazda 3. But I wasn't expecting a mazdaspeed. I wanted a small reasonably quick reasonably efficient well handling car that could carry the gear I have to carry, and this car far exceeded my expectations at the price point.

[@brianchapman8531]

I DD a Mazda3 and had a 2.5 sedan that I traded in on my M3. I'm a Mazda fan. Not having the option of a manual trans is very disappointing.

[@raym8121]

I put a deposit down 2 months ago after driving a non-turbo Mazda3 GT & comparing w/ a CX-5 turbo to see what the motor is like. I took delivery of my turbo sedan 3 days ago...it’s quality, luxury & performance in an affordable mainstream car for people who enjoy driving. It was well worth the wait & my hard earned $$$! The car is fantastic. Period. The turbo models are built in Japan, too. Mazda is aiming for people like myself, middle aged, owned a VW Jetta GLI, like the German engineering but want awd traction for winter weather (I live in Calgary) and want all the options checked in a new vehicle, but not an SUV or a Golf R. Can’t justify $10k more for an A3 Technik, BMW 2 series or Mercedes A class. Not to mention increased maintenance & insurance costs that c/w the brand name. VW is starting to cheap out with their product & the maintenance costs are going up, IMO. Moonroof & heated steering wheel aren’t even available on a Golf R. As much as I enjoy a manual trans, not prepared to spend several grand more for the Golf R.

[@chinaiwei]

I like what Jack said “95% of time sitting behind some asshole doing 5 mph underneath speed limit and you just don’t want to think about it”. Brilliantly dulled vehicle. But hey this toy got 310 lb-ft torque.

[@dennisng4627]

Another great presentation, review & summation, Savage. I’m a avid fan of Mazda’s zoom zoom days of yore. I had a 91 Miata BRG(a wall won the crash), 04 Mazda 6(as good as a BMW 330 in handling but more fun) & now, a 2017 MX 5 (not as fun as the NA). It’s disappointing to see the new direction in comfort & luxury rather than a driver centric dynamic experience 🥴. Living in LA I would purchase this iteration for its gorgeous design & built quality over other comparable offerings. Btw Mark &Jack, I’m not an engineer, I do appreciate your explanation on the engineering portion “In The Shop”. It is well presented without dumbing down on the technical aspects on build involvement. Well done as usual. 👍🏼

[@2004cyrus]

Let’s wax nostalgia over the Mazda’s of yore

[@ewcm1878]

@Dennis cool story bro.

[@naturephotography8837]

It is sad but mazda have no choice if they want to survive as a business. Modern cars of all brands are becoming more generic and boring.

[@piobu5357]

@@naturephotography8837 I've got the Mazda 3 BP sedan and it's a good daily - obvious pros are the looks, tech, comfort and interior. I'm not tracking it, so the steering and performance feels good, and I'd honestly take a bit of an edge off of the suspension if I could, cause it's a bit too stiff for driving on uneven tarmac surfaces.

[@yaybeats7305]

I test drove the mazda 3 turbo and was amazed by how fast it was and how engaging it was to drive. This is not a raw feeling speed3 but if you take it without the labels and just drive it for what it is, it is one hell of a car. It felt faster than a q50 or a Guilia with a good weight to the steering, good engine noise and for 33k, Mazda is offering a really good value for a sporty consumer vehicle that wasn't performance oriented.

[@afcgeo882]

You’ve never driven a GTI, have you?

[@yaybeats7305]

@@afcgeo882 lmao no, but that wasnt really the intention of my comment. everyone knows the gti would kill the mazda 3. But this comment was more about the passion mazda put into this. people want mazda to win and they need people to recognize that. id rather them find a medium between what consumers want and what enthusiasts want, than to go out of business. they are a much smaller company than volkswagen which is the largest lmao.

[@afcgeo882]

@@yaybeats7305 Except the GTI isn’t a performance car. It is literally what Mazda designers are trying to emulate, but obviously don’t want to spend the money on. That results in a half-assed, expensive car and the absolutely dismal sales reflect that. The GTI is literally better at both, being a practical, comfortable and utilitarian hatch and at the performance part. It’s also cheaper.

[@coryeskes7686]

@@afcgeo882 strongly disagree. The gti doesn’t have AWD unless you pay an absorbent amount of money for the golf R, and the interior of the MK 8 GTI’s and R’s is embarrassingly user unfriendly. Mazda knows how to craft a superior interior for a budget car

[@afcgeo882]

@@coryeskes7686 With the electronic LSD on the GTI you’d be just as good in poor weather as with Mazda’s AWD system. The interior of BMWs was touted “unfriendly” until people started driving them. Come to think of it, so were Mazdas. Their non-touch infotainment systems and the odd controls were vilified for years… until people got used to them. Sorry, try again.

[@drive2survivex]

I love the fact that they say its not a GOLF R alternative, but managed to keep up with it in a drag race with 65 less HP, and out run the new WRX. this car has serious potential to be a major contender.

[@ayotundealele1465]

Savagegeese really shat on this car as a performance/enthusiast vehicle...a little unforgiving, but it was obviously not what he was expecting lol. After exactly a year with this 3 Turbo Premium Hatch with the Polymetal Grey and red/black interior, I feel that I got exactly what I wanted and more. Most people in the market for this car are not looking for a brash rocket with stiff suspension and super tight steering. It is is a luxury/high end Hatch with a lot of refined elements and solid performance. For 36k, you can't beat the value proposition...all the competitors with comparable trim are 5 or 10k more. A phenomenal daily driver that can be enjoyed in the canyons and the track as well. I've driven this thing in nearly every situation (with the exception of snow) and VERY hard, and I must say that it handles extremely well and delivers the power necessary to really deliver a thrill. Just not in a way that will blow out your back lol. Sport mode almost makes it feel like a COMPLETELY different car. Was not expecting that. It will never be a Veloster N, Golf R or a Civic Type R, but those cars can't deliver the technology and complete package this 3 Turbo premium does...and that's okay. The Hatch market is in a very good place right now with all the diversity of options. Each car is distinct and offers something different.

[@graemetimmins]

I got my Premium Plus Turbo Hatch about 2 weeks ago now. I've really been loving it. I had a '10 Speed3, and this is definitely not that, but it's still a fun, tossable car. I was cross-shopping this against a CLA 35 AMG but couldn't bring myself to pay that much more money for that, and decided to stick with Mazda. I tracked my Speed3 about 4 or 5 times over the 5 years I owned that, so buying a track focused car to daily drive just doesn't make sense. In between the Speed3 and this, I owned a '16 CX-5 GT and '16 CX-9 Signature, so I've also gotten used to an automatic. With the money I've saved instead of going CLA 35, I could look at getting a used Miata as a track car if I want to get back into that. Plus, I love hatchbacks, and really I think this car does a better job of blending luxury, performance, refinement, and technology compared to say a Golf R/GTI, and much more than other hot hatches like a Veloster N or Civic Type-R. To me it's the Goldilocks of hatches right now in the States. (If MB brought the A hatch to the states, this might have been a different story though.)

[@richardnavratil9661]

In all honesty, how much would you have liked/disliked stick shift in this? I'm European, so in the US that's all I buy, but it's kind of sad that manufacturers say the take on stick shift is low, but then they offer it only in the lowest, most stripped out/rental car trim. If there's a decently equipped manual, I'm all over that. That's why I loved my '18 Accord and why I love my '19 Bullitt.

[@graemetimmins]

@@richardnavratil9661 Honestly I'm torn. I'm very happy with the automatic, because it gives me lots of tech that wouldn't be possible with a stick. The other side of me misses some of the engagement of the Speed3. Overall, for how I drive though, the automatic makes more sense for 99% of my driving, compared to the 1% of driving where a stick would have been more satisfying. Plus, I was looking at other performance cars that don't offer manual (CLA 35 AMG) so I likely wasn't going to end up with one anyway. Someone mentioned a Club version of the 3, like the Miata, that was more enthusiast oriented with a stick, changes to suspension, brakes and tires with less tech. That would have been an interesting decision for me then. That said, I would likely have still gotten the automatic in that scenario because driving in the city is my primary driving experience.

[@ninoscholz1110]

Nice to hear about your experience. Next time i'm up for a daily driver this is currently tops on my list. I currently have a 16 3s manual and also an older project/fun car, plus my wife's Volvo.

[@sorenrademacher5874]

@Graeme Timmins thanks for adding your experience here. Can you give any more details about how the handling compares to your run of the mill sedan or compact car? I don't care about track performance either but I'd like to not float off of a back road. Thanks.

[@adam145]

It's basically a cheaper Lexus compact and I really like that.

[@BYSMA4th]

I agree with that, it feels like what the Lexus CT should have been.

[@TheGreektrojan]

Yup. I looked upmarket but outside of Lexus (which is still bigger vehicles), there weren't any great options for people who want to own their cars long term and relatively hassle free. I can sell myself on a 40k car. I can't sell myself the extra 1k+ cost of ownership per year on top of that.

[@BYSMA4th]

@@mezzb lol as someone who just recently purchased the new model of the ES, I don't disagree with you. Luckily the interior is absolutely ace, looks and feels like a slightly less special LS/S Class.

[@tibidt]

@@mezzb well it is shit on the SUVs, but it is ok on IS/ES/LS ....

[@tibidt]

@@BYSMA4th congrats on the ES .... you should not compare to S Class, but to E .... and in my subjective opinion ES is far superior to E in almost every aspect, apparat for the E having a shit ton of engine options, i'll give them that :)

[@webguy943]

smoothed out is the perfect description for this car. yes the previous generations were more "fun" but I got used to this current generation, and its just as fun, more mature way. i like it.

[@animeradio9927]

As someone whos test drove and is going to own this car I do agree that its not performance based but to say its not that fun is a harsh criticism. Mazda gets very little profit from a car like this, you cant have it all as you said. But I've also seen plenty of other reviewers say the same things apart from your "not fun to drive". Yes its more comfort orientated 100% but around corners or just cruising its a great car. Its the middle man of performance and comfort some people may not like that and some do. It isn't full luxury pretty close but it isn't just performance orientated. The turbo option is also only 700 dollar upgrade that's nothing for the power and torque difference (Canada). Also as a canadian your probably going to want the AWD system anyway and yes its a price jump but for safety and the difference in driving its worth it IMO. The option for a Manuel isn't viable either as those who want it cannot afford this car or will say they will by one and don't end up doing so and Mazda knows this. Thank god its not a CVT and you can have the "fake Manuel feeling." I saw someone else say its not a hot hatch but its a toasted hatch. You can have fun it it but it isn't going to go on the track and break records or give loud pops and bangs going up and down gears. Can you still take it to the track or autocross sure you can with any car and most people who do also modify things like suspension etc. Though I know this review is of course from a stock perspective on the vehicle. In the end this isn't and will never be a mazdaspeed and Mazda said its not going to come back, while sad people need to accept that. A lot of companies are going hybrid and EV and taking away the sport aspects of certain vehicles and Mazda doesn't have the funds to make huge changes. This car was created to solve the issue that everyone said the Mazda 3 is feels slower than it should be and it does just that.

[@saucyp123]

I love how Jack brought up the context of daily driving at 13:58. We all say we want the fastest, most connected and raw driving experience possible. But the truth is that, unless you got a GT3, fast and raw usually means the car is a shitbox

[@tibidt]

Well, is it ? Wat about the TypeR ?

[@KonG-rk4od]

Learned this lesson the hard way. I loved my STi but damn, every mod made it harder to drive. It drove best when I put it back to stock to sell it. Tried to fool myself for so long that the parts made it better -- they made it *faster*, not necessarily better. My White 2022 M3 2.5T PP is delivering on 6 Sept and I have never been more excited for a vehicle. In my eyes it's a refined, adult STi.

[@polaris911]

Mazda 3 sales are down because Mazda stopped listening to their customers and only cares about "Luxury" now. The new Mazda 3 is cramped, has bad visibility, it's ugly, outdated infotainment, and expensive. The older generations were better and more competitive with other cars at the time. Nobody wants a hot hatch that isn't *hot..*

[@me-me3126]

10:25

[@SimbaTheGreat]

It’s not a hot hatch. Mazda calls it a premium hatch

[@buchajo]

Have you ever driven one? My experience with people who say nobody would ever buy one is that they haven’t bothered to drive one themselves and yet they put forth their opinion as fact. By the way, this isn’t and wasn’t supposed to be a hot hatch.

[@jjchockey]

The 2014-2018 was a little bit more fun I will give you that. Other then that the 2019+ is better in literally every way. Looks are subjective but I think the new one looks wayyyy better. One of the most stunning designs to come around in a while imo. The interior is undeniably in a completely different league. It’s much quieter, more comfortable, more refined, has a better infotainment system, and a much better sound system.

[@nfgibson2]

I subscribed late one night and by morning this STD was completely cleared up.

[@eliotgarcia21]

Bro what?

[@nfgibson2]

@@eliotgarcia21 you didn’t know...?

[@acornhead50]

When they're taking the car out for a test drive, everything they mention about the car sounds like they're describing a Lexus... which is not necessarily a bad thing.

[@buchajo]

I think it’s no coincidence that more and more you’re seeing Mazda vehicles benchmarked to vehicles traditionally out of their class. Yea.... the more expensive luxury badge may win but do you see them benchmarking Honda, Toyota and Hyundai against these more upmarket vehicles.... that’s my point....

[@rcmustsee437]

i have owned this as my daily for about 7 months now and am still in love with it. I owned a 2010 3 hatch and this is significantly better in every way. The extra $10k is well justified considering how much more you get. I did install a Magnaflow axle back exhaust simply because i wanted to hear SOMETHING out of the tail pipe, and that has been a worthy upgrade. The enthusiast in me does want a little more edge but that feeling subsides when i really think about what i'm looking for in a daily driver. Aside from the great value this car offers the fact that it looks a little different than your Hondas and Volkswagens keeps me and other people intrigued. Mine is in the soul red metallic and i have had numerous strangers comment on how gorgeous the red/black combo looks on this vehicle, and i have to agree! Keep up the great work SG, your my go-to car guys on KZbin.

[@poetryonplastic]

Did that exhaust void your warranty in any way? I know companies handle aftermarket parts differently. I’m looking to buy this car and that upgrade sounds very appealing along with putting some better tires on it.

[@rcmustsee437]

@@poetryonplastic im not sure as it has not become an issue... yet. i certainly hope not. i kept the stock one just in case.

[@red.riot.2280]

Thank god! No start/stop crap or cylinder deactivation. What are your thoughts on the turbo engine? Do you think they have most of the bugs worked out to be reliable? The 3 is too small for me. So I’d be looking at a cx5.

[@Thesaviorsway]

Mazda makes engines and transmission in house. All used across it's models even the cx-9. 2 engines makes it focus on quality vs quantity. So better fuel economy performance reliability efficiency while saving costs because you don't have to waste R&D with multiple powertrain options. Mazda is a small automaker but if they had more sales they can accomplish awesome cars. It's just their budget is small profit margins low. I worked for them and hope they last many generations more

[@steventomlin4845]

I bought an AWD Mazda3 Sedan back in July of 2019. My roundtrip commute is 125 miles daily. I have been COMPLETELY happy with the car on a daily driving basis. It's not an enthusiast car anymore. It is very comfortable, very reliable and provides a sense of security during the winter at a reasonable cost without succumbing to an anonymous blob of an SUV.

[@romank1099]

A F F O R D A B L E

[@azuresharonegreenlogoedito267]

Finally I can buy a cool looking car that is affordable

[@trogdor21997]

Love all your vids. It’s interesting though, I specifically remember from your NA Mazda3 review that you appreciated the steering rack and said that you don’t need lightning levels of steering for a car to feel compliant and responsive. Here, the same steering rack is a con. I would like it if you went through exactly what makes a hot hatch because every reviewer that has touched this car has said “This is no Speed3.” We get it. Yet they describe it with a bunch of vague terms that don’t add up to anything. So does it just boil down to your conclusion of Mazda smoothing over everything? So hot hatches need to be stiff, loud, and jerky to be hot? I’m not being sarcastic I just think no one has a set definition of what a hot hatch really is

[@2004cyrus]

The lines are blurred

[@FreshTillDeath56]

I encourage you to go watch his video on the cx30 turbo. He pretty much said it comes down to his own biases and mentalities on what he thinks the car should be.

[@aaronvasquez4605]

His opinion is probably different bc this is supposed to be the sporty one, not the base

[@akgonen60]

i feeel way safer in the ,mazda then i ever did in my civic the fact that the touch display is gone is awesome i love the controls propbably the most favorite feature of the car everything is at your fingertips literally thank u mazda

[@ramadjones]

Jack looks legit sad in this video.

[@baseballcharlie]

Sad for YOOOOOOUUUUUU!!!!

[@FutureDocta]

Yeah, kinda cringe tbh. If you're so sad, don't do a damn review then. Go review fast lambos and ferraris if that's what makes you happy Jack. What I would give to be in his position.

[@RaceGasSmellsGood]

Super cool luxury hot(ish) hatch for a decent price! Be a great daily driver with all that torque, nice interior, decent handling and awd!

[@RaceGasSmellsGood]

@@mezzb great minds think alike! Your needs sound just like mine! And I though my criteria (I’m picky) put me on an island of one?! If you end up driving one or getting one, let me know! I’ll do the same!

[@RaceGasSmellsGood]

@@mezzb Haha, that’s awesome! Just subbed to your channel, in case you post vids! Now, what color are you getting?! This grey is awesome! But that Mazda red is nice too...or even white! How about you?!

[@RaceGasSmellsGood]

@@mezzb yeah, that Mazda red is amazing, but the grey exterior and red interior would be an amazing combo-hadn’t seen one of those yet! That’s gonna be the combo to get! I can see it now! 😍🏎

[@simplywonderful449]

I suspect the author wasn't around in 1988, with the Mazda 323 GTX AWD with lockable center diff. It would be interesting to see how he'd compare the two. Torque is what gets you off the line faster! But Mazda has "tuned" this car to the buying market, rather than the few enthusiast buyers.

[@Kira-qc4qi]

SavageGeese: Taking the "shit" out of "shitbox"

[@marcusjamesOG]

You guys act like every car must be measured by uncompromising sports car standards. That caters to a very small segment of of people. I owned a 2011 Mazdaspeed3. I loved it but I like this Mazda3 turbo even better. Similar power but AWD, automatic , insulated interior, better seats. What’s not to like? What percentage car buyers are doing track days?

[@someUsername2442]

Knockoff Jack at 2:20? lol

[@realalsenor]

As far as I am concerned, you can shove all that "enthusiast" talk, which excites only kids and immature drivers. The M3 is not built for those, and if I wanted a sports car I would buy the Mazda Miata. But for a comfortable, safe, well equipped daily driver, on regular gas, easy and intuitive controls, memory seats for my wife and me, BSA, etc., the Mazda 3 gives me all I want. I like Mazda for their philosophy, more power to them!

[@jd_99]

The naming is probably the only mistake... and a big one. They should have called it Touring or something to emphasise comfort + performance

[@buchajo]

Ummmm .... it actually has a turbo?

[@ARentz07]

I think the name is perfect. It's not vague, and the "turbo" name usually carries some kind of cachet in other brands.

[@SimbaTheGreat]

But it’s turbocharged?

[@panzer_TZ]

Actually, the name makes sense. They specifically call it the Mazda3 Turbo, because it is designed be a Mazda3 with extra power. A mistake would've been calling it Mazdaspeed3, which given how bullshit naming is these days, they could have easily done but didn't.

[@agenericaccount3935]

@@buchajo Yeah, it had a turbo. Sky is blue too. The point is that Mazda has been trying to go upscale for a while. Turbo has boy racer connotations. Touring seems a bit more marketable to who they want.

[@handbon3]

my favourite thing to do is to come home from school, heat up some pizza rolls, and watch a new savagegeese upload

[@hellhog405]

ngl i'm dying to buy this car!! Simply the most beautiful car i've ever seen. OMFG

[@MrTmarc1]

Great review! I picked up what is essentially the exact car in this review a few weeks ago-a Hatchback turbo premium plus in the poly metal gray seen here. My previous daily driver was a 2011 335i with a 6MT. This car handles better than my 335i and even though the turbo n55 had better top end grunt, and a more immediate sense of speed, this Mazda feels virtually as quick. Geese is right, things are soft and a bit subdued but this car is extremely fun to drive and very comfortable. I constantly drive it in sport and it really livens it up. The value proposition is immense, The 3 is absolutely loaded with features that would cost 15k on an entry level Audi, bimmer or Mercedes. Further that doesnt even include the extra costs the Germans charge for upgraded engines AND awd. I picked this Mazda up for 33k, Its loaded and I can start the damn car with my iPhone! Very happy with the purchase, I’ve so far throughly enjoyed this new turbo 3. I’m 28, engineer in the Bay Area and was looking for a small crossover or hatch with adequate power and awd for those powder days up in the hills.

[@RossLambert801]

You got it new for 33k out the door?

[@MrTmarc1]

@@RossLambert801 yeah, I was able to pick it up in the fall of 2020 at a dealer in the Bay Area who wasn’t charging a markup on it at the time. Other dealers at the time were charging markups. Not sure what the situation is now.

[@RossLambert801]

@@MrTmarc1 Thank you for your reply.

[@PianoBlackTrimRep.]

I'm watching this review from an Applebee's restroom stall.

[@kwhite145]

The Shit out of Shitbox LoL!

[@positively_broad_st3780]

Sudden impact...

[@2004cyrus]

Lmao I’m at a truck stop

[@simplywonderful449]

Feeling flushed?

[@mikehennessy8784]

Thanks for trying to put the controversy over the revamped Mazda3 into context. I replaced my Mazda 3 2012 5 speed with a 2020 Mazda3 and I've been absolutely delighted with the change. It's amazing to me how deep the gap is between lovers and haters is when it comes to this car. Quite frankly, I'm not interested in driving like a frustrated Grand Prix racer. The comfort, quiet, style and features like Apple Car play are exactly what I want. When you ask if Mazda can ever fully bridge the gap between the gearheads and everyday drivers, you might better ask if they should even try. Keep going!

[@HellsJerome87]

The Mazda3 won’t win over enthusiasts and drivers who look for ease, luxury and comfort will opt for the CX-30. The market position Mazda chose for the Mazda3 seems like a goose chase to me, pun intended.

[@markmiller3279]

It's not a popular segment in the US, but in most other places this is considered an ordinary family car in size and configuration.

[@themightymrpink]

Your music choice is always a treat to listen to while watching your car reviews.

[@limpunsing224]

I think it's a great car meant for matured buyers Great review

[@Matthew_M11]

Exactly well said. The market spread of hatches need to accommodate for everyone. There are plenty of options for younger drivers.

[@Tanktaco]

Mazda was seriously impressive when I checked the dealer out earlier this year.

[@tlf361]

I agree, but what specifically impressed you? The interiors?

[@jetrep]

Doesn't sound like you bought one though

[@jamesmedina2062]

@@mezzb To be honest, while the skin of those 2 cars may be similar, underneath the mechanicals could not be more different. What I found for some reason is that I don't dig flat boxer Subaru engines in NA config but in turbo WRX config I do!! Still have to get me to swallow poor mileage tho which I am too old now to ignore. Mazda is a little middling in economy but have zoom zoom and comfort to compensate.

[@markmiller3279]

@andreiiliescu1 Subaru's boxer engines are in a configuration that goes back a century, and Subaru has done very little to make their engines better. Nor has Mazda, for the simple reason that they and Subaru are both small automakers. Mazda engines are similarly powerful, smoother, quieter, more reliable, and more efficient. I have a lot of respect for the Forester, but it's main advantage is space, and many people don't need that much. The CX-5 is the most reliable compact crossover in the Consumer Reports rankings, and the Forester is well behind it.

[@Argedis]

@andreiiliescu1 You call Mazda a shit car but their Skyactiv engines have been proven bulletproof since 2012 and they get better gas mileage and power than the Subaru boxer engines have. Mazda also ranked #1 in reliability for consumer reports beating out Lexus and Toyota. Subaru is all the way down to #8 even Hyundai is ranked better.

[@blazedkermit3338]

Maybe this product was design to go head to head with the A class A250 and BMW 1 series.

[@shastaweston]

That's what I was thinking as well, It does give off A250 vibes and style cue points

[@JoJoJoker]

Mike B that's what I love to see...when someone realizes driving a boring car is the reason they dislike driving.

[@f181234]

@@shastaweston except it’s lacking in tech compared to the Mercedes

[@markmiller3279]

@@f181234 I suppose it depends on what tech you value. If all you do is run Apple CarPlay or Android Auto the infotainment here is fine, aside possibly from the input method, but that's preference. The safety tech is perfectly solid. All you're really giving up is some of the autonomous driving stuff that isn't quite ready for prime time, and stuff like fancy camera views. Those are nice, but hardly essential.

[@screamoemo2860]

This might be at the top of my attainable dream cars. I like how they’re not going for the racer car image (civic type r). In the $30-40k range, Mazda’s seem to be great choice compared to the Europeans in that range.

[@markmiller3279]

Especially since the entry-level German cars you'll actually find on dealer lots will be optioned up to more like $40-50k .

[@pvtcmyers87]

I actually bought a 2020 Mazda 3 and I love it for what it is. Exceptional review and I really don’t feel like I missed out with not getting this car. But I’m really happy it exists.

[@wrakowic]

did you buy the turbo version?

[@CrunchyTire]

Its your car but a little faster. Every car could be a little faster. Some people seem to think that adding turbo would make it a car that its not. Thats where the complaints come from.

[@midnightquest9758]

Weak , Mazda is tripping not make a car for enthusiasts. That thing is overpriced and boring looking

[@rosgoncharuk2403]

After I subscribed I found a Mechanical Extravaganza hidden in my garage.

[@alexkay7823]

If you subscribed few years ago you would find Turbowski there...

[@XboxUnitD77]

This is a DAILY vehicle that happens to drive and handle "well" for it's intended purpose. I got a NA 2019 AWD Mazda3 and I love it for daily driving, but it is not a car I will modify.

[@supersabrosinho]

This is EXACTLY the car I'm looking for. Luxury, comfort, and a little bit of an edge

[@ashliehiggins]

What you guys are trying to say is, It's dad fast. Not suited for B-road blasts, but enough power to get out of trouble without thinking about it, and quick enough to safely overtake with a slight blip of the gas.

[@flopkin]

This is the review I've been waiting for. The only one I truly trust.

[@MarcraM82]

It's not a sports car. And doesn't claim to be. What the hell did you expect?? Pointless review.

[@leesonneville1817]

Some people may have been expecting something more along the lines of the previous turbo version: the Mazdaspeed 3

[@corderomccargo4500]

"it's not a hot hatch at all." Corksport: "challenge accepted."

[@NHBob1959]

COBB AceessPort and BNR can fix this along with Whiteline. I previously had the Speed 6.

[@corderomccargo4500]

@@NHBob1959 I currently have a first gen speed3 and I love the rawness of it. A good aftermarket suspension setup KW, bilstein, koni will get rid of the softness.

[@pascalparent3137]

But why even get this car then? It's not a cheap car to mod/tune. Also, can this motor ben tuned already?

[@corderomccargo4500]

@@pascalparent3137 if "cheap" speed is what you want, get a speed3. There's nothing like refined speed though. Also I support mazda. I can't afford this car but I know mazda owners will make it their car in time, regardless of how mazda wants it. Speed3 weak points are it's connecting rods and limited fuel flow, tiny turbo.

[@joeyn177]

@@NHBob1959 The 2.5T in this car has been pushed to about its limit from what I hear. There's really not much overhead for further tuning. The 2.5T in the Mazda 6 and their CUVs don't benefit much from tuning. I wouldn't recommend getting this car if you want to mod it into a hot hatch or something. There are better options for that out there.

[@jordandaperson]

I've watched a lot of the reviews on the Mazda 3 turbo and everyone seems to come to the same conclusion. Its like Mazda seemingly promised too much with the specs of the engine so we have all of these reviews shitting on the fact that the brakes, handling, trans do not match the added power. I think in reality a lot of people will go for this car or should. It is more premium with the interior, and the exterior is arguably doing the opposite of most brands right now (in a good way) with less creased body panels and all sorts of fake grills everywhere, with the added oomph of the turbo engine. The fact that it takes regular or premium is something special as well. The one thing Mazda does not have (yet) is the brand recognition.

[@fsurocks23]

Yep. Mazda has a marketing problems not an engineering problem.

[@chengzhong5342]

The interior of this thing( especially the red leather) looks amazing, it really jump out the the group from GTI, R, Si or anything really, simply, sporty, clean, best of all: no piano black, exterior also not bad, srsl hands up for this Mazda 3

[@faketruth7740]

I think the best way to describe this is for people who want a civic/corolla but want to pay camry/accord price for something a little nicer.

[@crxtodd16]

It's a good looking hatch. Really mature, and classy. I hope it sells well here in the US. I'm still hopeful that, someday, Mazda will release a sports car again.

[@damiansutube]

If cars sold better than SUVs we could have seen a MazdaSpeed 3 equivalent of this generation. Great video as usual. Love my Mazda 3. Chose naturally aspirated on mine. I’ve never been happier with a daily driver. Really impressed with Mazda, coming from entry level BMW and Mini coopers.

[@morishogo144]

And this is exactly the car I loved to have. It has everything and it's refined in every way.

[@doubletee4391]

i'm not sure many of the younger folks out there actually want sportiness in a car anymore. i've talked to people who think driving is just a hassle and can't wait until the car will completely do it for them. So i guess it makes sense for mazda to do what they did.

[@supersabrosinho]

I'm a "younger folk" and that's a pretty practical outlook. All of my cars have been manual transmission, and fun to drive. But I can always drive those in the weekend and let the future "autonomous" car drive me around. We're sharing the road with too many idiots and I can't wait for a self-driving car to do the driving for them too!

[@williamcricket7931]

I subscribed to savage geese because I like watching bald men driving cars.

[@jamesmedina2062]

OMG🤣

[@240fxst]

Mazda mindset for this hatchback . Let’s build an everyday driver to get milk on a cloud of marshmallows. Hmm maybe hot chocolate:) thanks for the cruise. Oops, I forgot to mention you two make awesome, sophisticated presentations based on objective reviews. Thank you .

[@ramielsayed7401]

I wish he'd stop pissing on cars that are perfectly fine. If a true Mazdaspeed did come out, would Mark and other car "enthusiasts" flock to buy them by the masses? Mazda has done nothing wrong here. They are catering for people that are actually buying their products (brand new) and supporting their brand. This is how we lost the manuals. So let go of that cynicism, and celebrate this car for what it is. No one needs a bouncy $50,000 Mazdaspeed to commute to work. That's just the truth.

[@krystiankukulski8054]

Yep! That's how I fell.

[@savagegeese]

No one pissed on anything in thia video. In fact if you watch the original Mazda3 video I discuss why its a good thing. Problem is the REASON mazda dealers are struggling to move these cars is because they buyers can't afford and don't want a higher end more expensive Mazda3. Thats a large miscalculation on their part. If your going take a car already too expensive for the existing market and push it higher it better have a good reason aside from more HP and TQ. This car does nothing better than the cheaper NA counter parts.

[@ramielsayed7401]

@@savagegeese fair point. Just so u know, I did watch ur original video, your long term review of ur personal Mazda3, and well, all your videos. In fact we're buying the wife a Hyundai Venu (sigh!) mainly based on your favorable review of it. Love you bro! You guys put so many smiles on so many faces! Much love and respect to Mark, Jack, new guy, and all your families ♥️

[@savagegeese]

@@ramielsayed7401 Venue! That is a great choice. Does everything really well. How has the shopping process so far? I hope you guys have a good holiday as well, this year has dragged on forever!

[@borger99]

A WRX hatch that graduated college and got an exectuive position

[@brandonchism6960]

Mazda PLEASE make a wagon version of the 6 that looks like a bigger derivative of this and houses whatever new powertrain you're developing.

[@marlonmullon]

They already have it. It’s just not available in the US.

[@brandonchism6960]

@@marlonmullon 😒 sounds about right... I’m gonna look it up now. I assume it’s as good looking as the 3 hatch.

[@dauntlessasmr7910]

Anyone who wants to experience that fun Zoom-zoom goodness that previous Mazda 3s used to be.... Buy a KIA Forte GT without the GT2 package. Seriously, that is the closest you'll come nowadays.

[@JaZoN_XD]

Really really down to earth review. I love it.

[@gilgalaad80]

I own the 180 horsepower version (naturally aspirated skyactive-x, not sold in the US iirc), it's an amazing car and I absolutely love it, still I'd buy the turbo immediately if they will bring it in EU (which won't happen, sadly). You got the point, it's not a performance car, but it's perfect for people like me that wants a smooth and refined car...and still occasionally wanna feel that kind of torque. My 180 HP is good, but you really have to rev it out to make it singm and when it does it's amazing. In Italy, the average comment about this car is "it's slow", just because every EU driver is totally addicted to small 3 cylinder turbo engine, that german car industry made so common. I totally disagree, but I have to admit that in daily driving I'd just want my exact same car, but with torque in the lower band. And this is exactly what they did. Too bad, as I said, that this car will never arrive in EU. As usual, GREAT video. You are absolutely the best.