Mazda frequently walks a fine line between mainstream and luxury, and it pays off in its standard hatchback. The Mazda 3, previously known as the Axela in Bangladesh is a family hatchback; it is not an SUV, crossover, or anything else that it isn't trying to be as what most automakers are coming up with these days.
With cutting-edge technology and driver-assistance systems that offer a class-above experience, the Mazda 3 continues to be among the most upscale and sporty compact cars available today.
However, adding such amenities would increase the price of the car beyond what customers in this market are prepared to spend, giving established models like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic a competitive advantage.
A 2021 model will set you back around Tk42 lakh and is one of the most fun-to-drive compact cars you will find in this price range.
Currently, there is only a handful of them for sale, but their popularity has been skyrocketing in recent times.
The model comes with all-wheel drive as an option, as well as three four-cylinder engines in the American and European markets, though you will only be able to get your hands on a 1.5L or a 2.0L MHEV in Dhaka.
The inline 4-cylinder engine produces around 155 hp at 6000 rpm and around 150 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, which is pretty decent for a family car.
In combined city/highway driving, the Mazda 3 sedan will achieve 12.7 km/l with front-wheel drive or 12.2 km/l with all-wheel drive. However, these numbers are subpar in comparison to those of competitors.
The Mazda 3 hatchback's distinctive design makes it alluring, but visibility is compromised by the hatch's bulbous rear.
Recently, a friend who bought it was kind enough to let me drive. There aren't many issues with the Mazda 3's driving dynamics.
It is quiet, polished, precise, nice-natured, and fluid. It's tough to find issues with a standard hatchback.
Honda Civic vs Mazda 3
Although both the Mazda 3 and the Honda Civic offer accurate steering and responsive handling, there are some significant distinctions between the two vehicles.
The Mazda 3's turbo-four lacks the horsepower of the performance-oriented Civic's. However, the Civic has a larger interior than the Mazda 3, it has a more premium interior than the Honda and features all-wheel drive, something the Civic does not.
Interior
Mazda used high-quality materials while designing the 3's interior. There are many desired options that buyers may add, but it all depends on the trim levels.
For instance, the top trims are the only ones that include a head-up display, heated front seats, and leather upholstery.
A cleverly designed bezel that hovers between two dash pads that resemble pillows makes the 8.8-inch infotainment display, which is standard; appear bigger than it actually is.
The technology is simple to operate with a console-mounted rotary knob. In order to get the optional 12-speaker Bose audio system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto functionality, you must seek beyond the basic model.
Both the 3's sedan and hatchback offer decent seats for the passengers. But like mentioned above, it has the lowest rear visibility among tiny hatchbacks as a result of its curved form prioritizing sightlines.
Although there is enough inside cubby storage, the sedan offers the largest cargo room.
The Mazda 3 stands out from the competition in many areas, especially when it comes to appearance, the quantity and variety of equipment available, safety features, and upscale appeal.
In other aspects, it appears to be expensive to purchase and operate, but that's not a bad thing at all.
As a result, there is potential for development, it is a mixed bag of what you might expect a semi-premium compact mainstream hatchback might represent.
