The Mazda3 has been around since 2004. However, the “zoom, zoom” automaker has struggled to convince people looking for the best sedans and hatchbacks to buy it. This is despite models like the 2023 and 2024 Mazda3 being stellar. Now, the automaker has announced the 2025 Mazda3, and it comes at a lower starting price and includes new tech features, but is it enough to stand out in a crowded market and compete with its rivals like the Honda Civic.

The Mazda3 has struggled in 2024 against options like the Honda Civic

Hopefully, the 2025 Mazda3 marks a turning point for the nameplate, but it’ll have stiff competition from the Honda Civic. According to GoodCarBadCar, it’s sold 15,157 units in 2024. For comparison, the more popular Civic has moved 107,959 units this year. The Mazda3 also struggled in 2023 as only a little over 30,000 people bought it, but over 200,000 people drove away in the Honda Civic. 

Many may wonder why the Mazda3 hasn’t been more popular since so many people claim it to be one of the best sedans. For one, it seems the automaker doesn’t market it as much as some of its other vehicles. Hopefully, this will change for the 2025 Mazda3. The other issue is that it falls behind some of its rivals when it comes to things like fuel economy and cargo storage. 

The 2025 Mazda3 gets a price cut

One reason the Mazda3 might be more popular in 2025 is its starting prices. The sedan version has a price cut and now starts at $23,950. Regarding the hatchback version of the 2025 Mazda3, the automaker has added back the S trim, and it has an MSRP of $24,950. These prices don’t include the destination fees. For comparison, the outgoing model started at $24,170. 

For the most part, the 2025 Mazda3 has much of what the previous model had. According to Mazda, it comes standard naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four that makes 191 horsepower and has a torque of 186 lb-ft. Buyers can still pick between automatic and manual transmissions. Those seeking more power can go for the turbocharged versions, which have a maximum output of 250 horsepower with 93 octane fuel. 

For comparison, this is more powerful than the 2025 Honda Civic. Additionally, the standard Civic will not have a manual transmission.

The 2025 Mazda3 does have some upgrades in the technology department. However, they mostly exist for the upper trims. For example, the Select Sport and higher trims now have Alexa Built-In. There is also Mazda Online Navigation for the Premium and higher trims. 

Overall, this could be one of the best sedans and hatchbacks because it has much to offer. Not only is it a little cheaper, but this is an option that still has a manual transmission.