We’ve all heard about the chip shortage by now. However, in case you haven’t, it means that manufacturers like Mazda cannot make enough cars to meet demand. That said, it would appear Mazda is doing just fine. Rather, 2021 Mazda 3 sedan inventory is doing just fine. It turns out, you may just be able to buy a new car without issue, for sticker, during the chip shortage.

2021 Mazda 3 sedan inventory: Thine cup runneth over

Seriously, there’s like, a whole bunch of these things. Apparently, dealers have 2021 Mazda 3 sedan models coming out their ears. If you don’t believe me, have a quick look at AutoTempest. This isn’t just some remote corner of the country either. No, you can find a 2021 Mazda 3 sedan just about anywhere. First, I started with the east coast, using New York’s zip code and a 750-mile radius. I got tons of hits.

Then, I kept looking west in search of chip shortage freedom, finding yet more models in flyover states like Ohio, Nebraska, and the Dakotas. Moreover, there’s about a billion of these in Denver, with several out near the airport in case you’d like to come have a look. Again, the same story on the west coast. Inventory really is plentiful country-wide. And for sticker price. Which begs a question.

Is a 2021 Mazda 3 worth it?

In a word, yes, the 2021 Mazda 3 sedan is worth it. Recently, Mazda has put quite a lot of effort into upping its game. You’ll have no trouble finding one that’s well-optioned with leather, Android Auto, and Apple Carplay. The interior really is the nicest thing coming out of Japan right now, short of some Lexus models. Then again, the Mazda 3 at least has usable infotainment.

Now, yes, there are some downsides. For starters, consumers may find the sedan’s base 155 hp lacking. However, you can have a “Turbo” model with 250 horsepower. Even better, you can get yourself a Turbo hatchback. Unfortunately, you’re still one manual gearbox short of a hot hatch. You’ll also need winter tires, but then again, you should be putting those on your SUV too, so what’s the difference? I’ve heard some minor gripes about the automatic transmission, but the 2021 Mazda 3 sedan is a commuter, a-to-b car, not a track weapon.

You don’t have to get your Mazda now before it’s gone

Of course, you’re also getting Japanese reliability and a vast dealer network. Moreover, a lot of these cars are still so new you’ll be getting a warranty for your $25-$35,000. Frankly, it’s hard to go wrong with the Mazda 3, especially in some warmer climates where snow isn’t much of an issue. Hell, I’d have no problem owning one in Denver. So, there you go. The answer to your chip shortage woes. A beacon amidst the dark night of inventory shortages and ravenous dealer markups and Ford Bronco flippers. Zoom zoom.