There ain’t no party like a Mazda party. Seriously, I’ve spent the summer in a variety of different Mazda vehicles, and I’ve had a great time. Currently, I’m enjoying the 2021 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo. As a coincidence, I’ve found three things that you should know about the Mazda3 Turbo. 

Three important 2021 Mazda3 Turbo features 

You can get started in a 2021 Mazda3 for about $20,650. This provides an economical price for a reliable car. But I have the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo with the Premium Plus package. This MSRP for this model with all the extra equipment is $34,015. 

It includes extra luxuries such as a heated steering wheel, a leather steering wheel, soft-touch leather surfaces, G-vectoring Control Plus, 18-inch black alloy wheels, SKY-ACTIV six-speed Sport Mode, and much more. 

1. The Mazda3 Turbo is fun to drive 

The 2021 Mazda3 has two engine options: 

• The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder option with 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. 
• The turbo 2.5-liter four-cylinder pumps out 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. 

I recommend going with the turbo and checking out the sport mode. It provides fast and smooth acceleration. According to Edmunds, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The standard engine gets to 60 mph in about 8.3 seconds. 

The Mazda3 Turbo feels stable and composed with responsive handling and excellent cornering. I’m primarily a truck and SUV girl, but this sedan has its advantages with a lot less body roll and confident brakes. 

Also, this little sedan is incredibly agile. It’s very easy to maneuver in and out of tight spots. It can handle daily commutes in the city, or longer country rides with ease. From the flatlands of South Carolina to the downtown Asheville city area, the Mazda3 has been engaging with a smooth ride. 

If there was anything to change, it could be beneficial to increase the ground clearance. The height of the CX-30 provides a little more capability. Also, there is a bit of noticeable road noise at higher speeds. 

2. The Mazda3 isn’t the best option for tall people 

I’m 5’1,” and the 2021 Mazda3 Turbo is a great fit. I can adjust the power driver’s seat to see over the dash and all. However, I wonder what taller people do. The seat can be moved pretty far back, but people over six feet tall may struggle. 

When I have a vehicle, I go all through it like a spider monkey. I can fit in the backseat just fine when the seats in front of me are pushed forward a little. But if they were set all to way to the back, my knees would come into contact with them. I’d say the Mazda3 has enough space for four average-sized adults. 

This car is pretty low to the ground. Climbing in and out of it requires a bit of a squat. I did bang my knee on the dashboard while exiting it once. 

3. The Mazda3 has excellent tech 

While the 2021 Mazda3 Turbo doesn’t have a touchscreen, there are physical controls for the volume, navigation, and radio tuning. It’s quick and straightforward to figure out too. I thought I’d be more upset without a touchscreen, but drivers don’t need it. The controls are very functional.

The 8.8-inch color display looks excellent, and I’m a fan of the head-up display with traffic sign recognition, your driving speed, and the speed limit. Plus, the blind spot warning displays where vehicles are in your blind spot. 

You can become totally one with your music and podcasts because the Bose Premium Audio system sounds great with its 12 speakers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, along with a 360-degree reverse monitor, rear-cross traffic alert, lane-keeping assistance, and more. 

I haven’t tested the AWD system yet, and I’ve been monitoring my fuel efficiency. As I continue driving the Mazda3 Turbo, I’ll keep you updated with the pros and cons that this sedan has to offer.