The 2025 Mazda3's Hidden Advantage - It's Not What You Think | In-Depth Review

[@genzigzag]

A torsion beam rear end is only as bad as the execution, Mazda has a history of great suspension tuning.

[@BrianMakse]

Comment of the day!

[@MazdadBenJamin-o9o]

@@genzigzag agreed

[@timgt5]

My wife is looking for a subcompact crossover for around 27K or less and with AWD. We drove a bunch the Corolla Cross. The HRV, The Trailblazer, The Kicks. I drove them all and found the CX30 to have the best ride and handling combination out there despite the non-independent rear. Only over very rough roads did it feel less comfortable than the rest but that is a worthwhile tradeoff for the level of handling this has compared to the others. I mention this because the CX30 is basically a 3 Hatchback with a lift. It was the only that felt like driving a conventional car versus things that lumber over the road and feel disconnected. Also the only one of these with standard blind spot monitoring standard. It sacrifices some room but we do not have kids and we are keeping our CX5 to haul big stuff with. Even without the turbo it is one of the more powerful entries in the segment as well.

[@Andrew-zs5tc]

I own a 2019 AWD Mazda3 and drove a 2015 FWD Mazda3 before that. I can't say what is attributable to the rear suspension and what is due to having AWD. The 2015 is a driver's car with excellent handling. The 2019 is much softer and no where near as fun to drive.

[@KutWrite]

A simple bar between the wheels is obviously a much cheaper suspension design. Whether they can overcome both wheels being affected by every bump or camber change, I don't know.

[@audieconrad8995]

My wife is on her 2nd Mazda 3 Sedan. Excellent cars.

[@Clearlyanormaperson]

Why Mazda oversized the grill? And made it aggressive? Is it because of China? Nope, because they wanna make money, which has their minds get runovered by a train.

[@scottamy6496]

I own and daily drive a 2024 ND3 Miata Club and we’re seriously looking at the Mazda3 for my wife’s replacement to her current 2012 Honda Accord. Mazda makes fantastic drivers cars and I am so glad it’s still using a real 6 speed transmission vs all the other manufacturers and their CVTs mated to tiny over boosted 4 cylinders! The fact that you can get the NA 2.5 or the turbo is great and both are quite good engines! Mazda knows how to make very comfortable and engaging interiors and the look and feel of the materials is top notch! Fantastic video and really enjoy your content! Thank you from North Carolina USA!

[@KiyasuPVP]

What drew me to Mazda and why I bought one is that it feels like Mazda is constantly thinking about driving, like the actual experience of piloting and interacting with this machine, and they do that at every stage, when building every system. If you want a more sterile and economic approach, if vehicles are just a means to an end for you, then Mazda prob isn't gonna be tuned towards you, but if you've ever wished your commute was just a bit longer to give your right foot a little more time to stretch out, these are your people.

[@lolotus4borderless]

Your reviews are phenomenal and your sense of humor is unequaled! My first car ever was a Mazda and after 30 years I returned to Mazda with an Mx5 and truly this brands is amazing.

[@BrianMakse]

Glad you enjoy the show and I'm happy you're enjoying your MX-5!

[@yukselarda]

3:58 Hi Brian, You can go from Carplay/AA to Mazda infotainment and back by holding the home button. And you can switch the audio source with the source button on the steering wheel.

[@parnpichate]

I bought the 6-speed manual in Soul Red Crystal Metallic. I've had it for a year and have absolutely no regrets. This car is quality for the price point. The Bose sound system is flawless, the interior cabin is luxurious, and the exterior aesthetic is next-level. Its simply incomparable.

[@robmunach3870]

Agreed. I have the Snowflake Metallic

[@wiredspeaker5658]

Man my 87' RX-7 was so fast in and out of corners. Its been years but I still remember the pure enjoyment of that car. We still have a 2nd gen Miata and it never gets boring. Zoom Zoom is real.

[@mike-uw6wt]

Bring back the Mazda 6!

[@BrianMakse]

I’d like that.

[@Iconiic752]

I just picked up my 2025 Mazda 3 GT Turbo, and it just so happens to be the exact same color both interior and exterior as the one driven in this video. I love it honestly, the drive is amazing and I haven't really "tested" it yet in terms of pushing it because its still so new (sub 100 kms). I really like the sound of the car too. I want to put a cold air intake in it although I don't know if I'll run into problems with my O2 sensors if I put an aftermarket cold air intake. Id of course get it installed professionally. I also wants to swap out the stock exhaust for something with a bit more of a punch. Also gotta see what my insurance thinks hahaha. Great video btw. Subbed.

[@jimimack7298]

I bought a 2024 3, Hatchback PP Turbo (also white) back in May, and coming from owning 4 muscle cars over the last 15 years, I am impressed with and love my Mazda3.

[@msalvag]

Thanks for reviewing the sedan, Brian. We bought the 2025 GS trim for my daughter and took delivery 2 months ago. Its a fantastic car with a premium feel and drive. We took her to the Toyota dealer to look at the Corolla as well but its no comparision.

[@BrianMakse]

When they offered me the chance to test one, it was a hell yes. This is the first 3 sedan we've had on the channel. Great choice for your daughter. Hope she's enjoying it!

[@ekeropi76]

I'm on my second 3 turbo (21 and 24) love it, there is a certain heft to it that makes it feel luxurious not cheap compact car. Not the most economical on gas but it's fun to drive. Keep it half throttle to keep it in the power range and just pull in front of everybody. The AWD is fun in the snow. The traction control allows you lots of play/drifting before it kicks in.

[@timothyjarvis4208]

I bought a 24 soul red 3 sedan , we love it, I just cant epress how happy we are with this car

[@BrianMakse]

That's awesome to hear! The soul red color really stands out, and I'm glad you're enjoying your new sedan!

[@gogeorgia707]

Understated, beautiful. These cars such high quality today. Great review. I cross shopped a Lexus UX with the CX30 and went Mazda.

[@BrianMakse]

I think you made the right choice.

[@wyaldkingdom]

What was the final decision factor or factors for you?

[@MazdadBenJamin-o9o]

Great review. I might be biased but I love Mazdas. I'm actually looking at this exact car this spring. This review helped me cement the choice. Thanks again for another great vid. Cheers fella

[@BrianMakse]

Happy to oblige. I think you’ll really enjoy it.

[@bradseeker]

can't you exit carplay/switch to radio by just long-pressing home or using the favorites/star button? the infotainment controls are one of my favorite things about this gen of mazdas, and maybe it's just because i've had mine for 2 years but i can do just about everything i need (including popping out to the main menu to check tire pressure) w/o looking at the screen

[@rick_.]

And there is the source button on the steering wheel, so several easy ways to toggle

[@oceanlover3530]

Yes you can. ✌🏻✌🏻

[@lindaturgeon1618]

Disagree, hate the info system. Love the way it drives though!

[@Eelgnotsa]

Great review I don’t know why Mazda don’t sell more of these. And the whole line for that matter …I just think people need to test drive them and give them a chance ,rather just run out by Honda’s and Toyotas.

[@BrianMakse]

Well said!

[@AH-bm4ts]

For anyone who wants to drive a car forever then there is really only one option that builds an engine with both direct and port injection.

[@KiyasuPVP]

I've had my 25 3 hatchback for a week and half and 500 miles, it's a delight. It's such an enjoyable experience that I think what happens is the compromised crossover version, the CX-30, is still itself a better driving experience than most cars and has the height people seem to want. The CX-30 has taken like 70% of the sales😢, they definitely tried to lean me towards the CX-30 at the dealership.

[@bmaxse]

Because most people are just sheeps. 😅

[@parnpichate]

@@bmaxse Its true, they hear everyone else say Honda and Toyota and when it comes to purchase time, they play within those boundaries. Personally, I've always thought the exterior aesthetic of the Mazda3 was a cut above. After buying the 2024 manual hatchback in soul red, I confirmed that I love the exterior but also everything else.

[@jedreadsbooks7203]

Had a hatchback turbo for 3 years, and it was wonderful. Comfortable, performant, and stylish with zero quality/reliability issues

[@carenthusiastal2687]

What'd you go to after the hatchback?

[@VitoC.]

Another great review of a great car!

[@BrianMakse]

Glad you liked it!

[@larrygaking2731]

Most complete test drive I've heard 🎉

[@BrianMakse]

Glad you liked it!

[@oceanlover3530]

Love my Mazda 3 Sedan! My first Mazda and it’s been a pleasure to drive. Thanks for a great review! ✌🏻👍🏻✌🏻

[@BrianMakse]

Cheers!

[@blackmirror0098]

In 8:40 it's when you know for reals that this man is not telling you bullshit, but he really enjoys driving this car. Meanwhile, the ceramic "silver" color (seems more like white) with all those black exterior touches paired with the red leather interior is pure magic. Mazda 3 Sedan seems like THE car to drive. And I truly I hope I can get one for myself... Soon.

[@autofigure00]

I personally love the center dial, but I use android auto and using the dial with that is very simple and easy to navigate between panes, took me just a week to get used to after purchasing. Ive had my 2021 manual trans mazda3 hatch for about 1.5 years now and I have zero regrets. Only complaint is the thin paint, and the OEM batteries and tires aren't good. Other than that is super fun and feels amazing to drive (wonderful daily driver and road trip car, super comfy cabin, and once the bose speakers break in and you get the settings set how you want they sound really good, makes a great overall driving experience). I love being in this car and I love looking back at it, they really did an amazing job crafting the visuals of this car.

[@alengreen589]

it´s a good compact sedan, thanks 😀

[@BrianMakse]

It really is!

[@pjl4562]

Love this.. thank you!

[@BrianMakse]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lellychan4135]

When i was looking for a car once i graduated college since my 07 camry was hit on my way home from my new graphic designer job (at the time) i was looking for a new car. I wanted a quick, highway cruiser that was comfortable but yet i could take it to tracks and was fast. I checked my budget and cars and fell on the compact class since i can get good gas mileage without losing some fun for a car, yet i didnt want a corolla and even test drove one and absolutely hated it. Yes for an eco car its fantastic but i wanted more and ended up test driving the exact same mazda 3 hatch i test drove and myself and wife fell in love INSTANTLY. Ive now since owned my mazda 3 hatch for about 1.5 years and have some cosmetic mods now and i love it. Still i look back at it and throw it into corners like a porche and the car keeps wanting more. Fantastic car.

[@storeymark]

I bought my Mazda 3 GT new in 2007. Incredibly dep-endible and fun to drive still.

[@UIOP336]

This such a unique car. Definitely fun to drive despite its shortcomings.

[@John-kx3ng]

I have a 2020 Mazda 3 Premium which is virtually identical to the 2025, one of my favorite cars by far.

[@Saboda53]

So Brian, the big question: the AWD Turbo Hatchback, with its added power - or the FWD Manual, with only 191 HP but carrying 300 lbs less weight? (I don’t really “need” AWD where I live, but I’ll happily take it if it makes for a more satisfying “driver’s car”.) I can’t decide! 🤷

[@g.r.2985]

Definitely go with the manual FWD!! 🎉🎉

[@joeyschmoey9138]

I would say test drive both if you can, I did and there was no question I went with the manual. It's an above average stick shift and I do appreciate getting 36 MPG average and pound per pound more reliable without a turbo. It is not slow either and where I live I just had no reason or space to use the extra power.

[@adron7748]

If you like manual, go with the manual. No doubt. Secondly, it’s more fuel efficient and you’ll be able to fill your gas with lower octane, so it’s cheaper to buy and to run. Also, insurance is cheaper than the turbo. Lastly, if you’re planning on keeping your Mazda LONG term, so far, the naturally aspirated Mazda engines are extremely reliable. There’s not enough info on the turbos to determine how reliable they are long term though. If money isn’t a problem, I’d still go with the manual. I have a Mazda mx5 nd2 and will buy a Mazda 3 hatch manual, at some point.

[@lukewalker1051]

Brian, all said, if one doesn't have a carry around a lot of stuff, do you prefer this vehicle to a CX-5 Turbo? Thanks for the review.

[@BrianMakse]

Yes. Glad you enjoyed!

[@jecksonng]

I had the 1.5 mild hybrid of mazda 3. Fuel consumption is very good

[@Thankyou_3]

Great video 👍👏🙏 Mazda! You guys keep up the great work and keep knocking off the competition. The only other vehicle that can compete with reliability and built quality is the Toyota Corolla. Subarus are pretty well built but will not be economical to operate and maintain. Rest of the low quality vehicles from Honda and Nissan continuing to lose market share with disastrous Turbo engines and CVT transmissions.

[@jstgld]

Cannot echo all of this enough, have a 2024 Sedan 3 with the NA engine and even without the turbo (Which admittedly I do wish I had) it the most fun car to drive I've ever owned. It absolutely eats up corners and the feeling of piloting the car is unmatched at the price point

[@tedshigematsu7323]

Great review, thanks. I’s like to ask a question about the Miata, I have a 2016 Club and I often think I’d like the new one with 181hp. The 2016 has 155 hp, would it be worth it to trade it in for a new one?

[@roemer7]

I own a 2018 MX5 GT. I’ve driven both and don’t miss the extra power. I drive mine all year round and won’t be selling it any time soon.

[@tedshigematsu7323]

@@roemer7Thank you for the reply. I have a lot of fun driving my 2016, i wonder at times if the extra 26hp make a lot of difference. Probably not enough to pay an extra $20-25000.

[@echtalion]

How does it compare to the new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe 2025?

[@BrianMakse]

Check my review about the 2 Series Gran Coupe!

[@alfredthehodophile]

Objection regarding steering I believe it has direct feel, gives lots of feedback and on-center feel 25 fastback owner here. Otherwise, great review!

[@BrianMakse]

It's great on centre and chassis feel is awesome, but steering feedback is muted in my experience.

[@alfredthehodophile]

actually you're right, its actually muted. but I think its perfectly tuned by mazda for a balance between comfort and feedback. a little increase may cause fatigue over a long drive in my opinion

[@bradcomis1066]

Hatchback GT FWD 2.5 NA with 6MT and definitely in Soul Red. I'm really tempted to buy one since the price isn't too bad. I'm driving an '06 BMW 330i (6MT) which is one of the great cars of the 00's and the debate in my head is whether or not it is better to make payments on a new car or to pay the repair bills on an old BMW?!

[@timw2083]

One of the best options IMO... I'm probably getting my son the hatchback. I originally bought a manual 2018 hatchback but our neighbor hit it. I bought an '02 IS300 SportCross and GRC. Mazda is in the league with all the Europeans.

[@katiecannon8186]

The hatch is beautiful. But has a massive blind spot. I bought my son the sedan.

[@teejaysalgado9819]

Man.. that white sedan is 🔥. This will be my next car😬

[@duncanmclellan5479]

So I had a 2022 of these (turbo sedan). Agree with everything you said. But now I’m in the market for a DD. Brian, can you make the case for the manual hatch over this, or would you unsave the manuals in exchange for the acceleration (and AWD for northern winters) of the AWD turbo?

[@damjanstoimenov]

Is there going to be a redisign for 2026? 😊

[@patrickgagnon9662]

Dynamic pressure turbo ....worth talking about specs . that is why torque is so good .

[@KutWrite]

I'm curious if the auto tranny is CVT or dual-clutch. I like simplicity. I'm going to check your review of the manual hatch. I like manuals, but the current GF hasn't yet been trained on one.

[@BrianMakse]

Six speed auto. Best resolved automated drivetrain in the segment.

[@KutWrite]

@@BrianMakse Thanks. I've been considering replacing my '13 FR-S. At age 77, it's getting harder for me to get in & out of it. I like manuals, but my GF is hesitant to try and learn it. Plus, there's resale value to consider. Fewer people seem to like 'em. I drove an auto Mazda3 a few years ago, and the only thing was, the "up" and "down" paddles were on the wrong sides for me. I guess I could acclimate. Definitely "First-World Problems," right?

[@jeretso]

Comparing Subaru to Mazda dealership inventory now. The Subarus are showing 2k below MSRP including their popular Crosteks and WRX. The Mazdas are selling near MSRP. Subaru has a huge infotainment screen and very few buttons. Not a fan of that huge Subaru screen.

[@katiecannon8186]

Find a lightly used one When I bought my son’s I found that the luxury car dealers (Porsche, etc) had the best prices

[@jeretso]

@@katiecannon8186 i will check thanks

[@cerinawoehrley4199]

I just got 23 carbon sedan about a month ago All good with it driving fun non cvt non turbo one like the red seats. The gas mpg not all that good I get 25 city I do the most I came from a camry xse and it's better mpg on camry. Lol all els is good

[@bobbyjones2112]

Only thing I would like is the tires are too narrow. That’s my only complaint though. And well, maybe the price too.😂

[@DuaneAnderson-ot1ri]

press and hold the home button to get out of car play or android auto takes you to the radio not that complicated we criticize things we don't know how to use learn or keep your comment to yourself.

[@markmclendon5834]

You are not supposed to sit close to the wheel. The speed and force of the air bag can kill anyone under 5’9” 160LBS. Plus the Takata recall is an issue. You should retract that statement.

[@BrianMakse]

No.

[@markmclendon5834]

@ research what I said and prove me wrong.

[@BrianMakse]

@@markmclendon5834that’s incredibly easy. You need to start here: Learn How To Sit Behind The Wheel kzbin.info/www/bejne/e6OuZYFrfZtlZq8 and then get back to me.

[@robertwilliam9558]

Brian, thank you for reviewing a sedan. 99 % of the reviews are the hatchback.

[@BrianMakse]

Happy to oblige. I haven't looked around KZbin, but I'm glad it worked out!

[@danielmann316]

Is it touch screen

[@zbigniewbohdanowicz8897]

yes, after update it is. But it is really not needed. I never use touch screen, physical controls are much more convenient.

[@rjdavis7503]

Great car, the 3!

[@scottanthony3426]

Kind of competing with the "new" Acura Integra, but no AWD and a lot more cabin noise, and certainly (less the Type S), not the power.

[@oligarchy-usa]

Shame that all the naturally-aspirated trims now have cylinder-deactivation engine tech-bloat. Not interested in that or start/stop in any of my vehicle purchases (or anything with a turbo engine). Both are historically problematic tech at best for the end user & only developed & implemented to help Mazda meet economy/emissions mandates. Otherwise, great vehicle. Love my 2022 Mazda CX-30 CE (which doesn't have either cylinder-deactivation or start/stop). Hopefully, the Mazda3 and CX-30 will get a hybrid version in the near future, much like the CX-50 is getting in 2025, using the Toyota hybrid drive-train & a proper direct+port injection Toyota engine.

[@ak2112]

drove one when the turbo first came out. really didn't like it. felt soft and detached compared to previous mazdas. not inspiring to drive at all. now they're 37k? no thank you.

[@chuckcribbs3398]

Why can’t we get a manual in the 2.5 sedan like the hatchback has?? C’mon Mazda.

[@racineurr.8924]

50K + in Canada for a Mazda 3. No way they gonna sell like hot cakes. But I believe a Mazda is now a replacement for an Audi like you say. But good luck with that whatever the publicity made by reviewers.

[@AndyRoss-z3t]

Despite its quality, reasonable price, technology and driving fun, I can also see why it doesn't sell as well as it should. The back seat / cargo size limitations and the rear torsion beam suspension limit its potential. The high door height, small windows along with short leg dimensions makes the back seat almost confining.It's quite uncomfortable. Even for drivers such as myself who want performance and a fun factor in driving, the size issue makes it an unacceptable purchase.

[@BrianMakse]

Please tell me more about the torsion beam limiting its potential.

[@AndyRoss-z3t]

@BrianMakse If I'm spending $40,000 CDN on a compact sedan .....it better have a fully independent suspension. Why didn't they give it rear drum brakes as well ??

[@BrianMakse]

@@AndyRoss-z3twhere do you stand on MacPherson struts? Or do you draw a line there, too?

[@raymondsnow7745]

Everyone saying the torsion beam limits its potential likely hasn't actually driven the car. For fun I test drive the manual hatchback. It was a blast. 99% of people aren't going to know because they don't race. I bought the last year CX-9 and I plan on driving it into the ground.

[@BrianMakse]

@@raymondsnow7745100%

[@singular9]

Just got my wife a 2023 3 Hatch Pref. At like 10k bellow new, worth it. New? F Off too expensive.

[@DT77-gx6jo]

Thanks for letting all the Cheapskates know how to properly position the driver's seat Jeff Gordon

[@BrianMakse]

There’s nothing stopping y’all from being cheapskates AND driving properly.

[@jockobacumbo623]

Too bad you can’t get a manual transmission version.

[@BrianMakse]

True! It’s like ordering a pizza and them saying, “Sorry, we don’t have any pepperoni today!”

[@msmarshall854]

Gorgeous car but.. those tiny windows means you can hardly see out.. :( que lastima!

[@marcinmerrimack1726]

Yes, rear visibility is poor in these cars, especially in the hatchbacks.

[@BrianMakse]

Blind spots are a myth.

[@gamerdaddy2570]

the Chinese brands are showing that cars in this class and price range can have better luxury interior. This sucks.

[@cguzzet]

roflmao

[@jockobacumbo623]

Looks more like BMW control panels and controls more so than Lexus.

[@federal6616]

Back seat area tight

[@BrianMakse]

🤔

[@federal6616]

@BrianMakse in comparison to a G4 mirage its tight. Otherwise the car is beautiful

[@twolazeblue9614]

Torsion is where I draw the line

[@BrianMakse]

I generally draw the line at ignorance.

[@KidNato]

I got a brand new turbo hatch for low 30's, but for high 30k I would not buy it. Not new anyways..

[@Offensively-normal]

Torsion beams are not bad. They are just not as good. The rear end will become unsettled on less than perfect roads

[@BrianMakse]

Tell me you didn’t watch this episode without telling me you didn’t watch this episode.

[@stevewise1656]

That is a powerful little car. However, Mazda needs to update their infotainment system. That wheel is a pain for many.

[@billyrock8305]

Topgun boring, efficient, small sedan.

[@TYAC_red]

Costs aside, Macpherson struts and a torsion beam are skittish at the limit. Highway + turn + undulations + highway speeds If this setup is so good, why do they put double wishbones front and multi-link rear on the MX-5 Miata?

[@Bytesplice]

I'd love to have you review the 2WD naturally aspirated AT - how different is the entry level?

[@BrianMakse]

I’ll look into that, hopefully it’s available for testing. We do have an episode for the 6MT dropping soon.

[@marcinmerrimack1726]

Rear torsion beam suspensions are nothing but a cost-saving measure. End of discussion.

[@Saboda53]

Actually… no. That’s the quick, “go-to” enthusiast reaction, but in this case, it’s not true. Consider Mazda’s rich and extensive history of innovative, outta-the-box thinking & engineering; they’ve never been afraid to go their own way. Championing the rotary engine, creating a lightweight, RWD sports car when the industry insisted it was dead, incorporating suicide doors in a passenger car for better space utilization, even favoring a non-touchscreen infotainment system (when everyone else succumbs to the “I must have a touchscreen” crowd) because their own R&D suggests that touchscreens are, for your brain, more distracting, the list goes on and on.… you may not like all their decisions but, time and again, Mazda engineering does their homework and follows their results. If Mazda were a budget car company with a history of cheaply cutting corners to save money, you might have an argument. But that’s not Mazda, and you don’t. Sorry.

[@BrianMakse]

Backyard engineers have entered the chat…with their thorough arguments against torsion beam rear suspensions.

[@marcinmerrimack1726]

@Saboda53 Your reply follows the style of this guy’s videos. Lots of words, but little substance. Why not instead provide a pointed argument for torsion beams instead of what could readily be a marketing blurb for Mazda?

[@BrianMakse]

@@marcinmerrimack1726 you literally wrote "end of discussion" which plainly states that you don't want to participate in a discussion. Perhaps you'll come around and articulate your thoroughly considered arguments against torsion beam rear suspensions.

[@oceanlover3530]

@@BrianMakse 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@adeal2buy354]

2:46 FACTS

[@edilbertoperez8699]

Interior and dash are cramped..