Consumers and Critics Pick the 3 Best 2023 Mazda3 Sedan Trims
The 2023 Mazda3 has been making waves, and for good reason. Mazda‘s latest sedan boasts impressive performance, sleek design, and features that make it a top contender. However, one question divides consumers and critics: What is the best 2023 Mazda3 Sedan trim level?
Which 2023 Mazda3 Sedan trims do consumers and critics pick?
One perk that makes the Mazda3 Sedan appealing is the number of trims, each offering unique features and capabilities. According to Mazda, the sedan trims include, Mazda3 2.5 S trim which is the base model and starts at $22,550; the Select trim, starting at $23,950; the Preferred trim starting at $25,550 and the Carbon Edition trim, starting at $27,200. The Premium trim starts at $29,400, the Turbo trim starts at $32,450, and Turbo Premium Plus starts at $34,000.
Consumers and critics have weighed in, and their recommendations can shed some light on the best 2023 Mazda3 Sedan trim.
Edmunds says the Select trim is the most popular
According to Edmunds, the 2.5 S trim equipped with the “Select package” is the most popular option among consumers. “With added features such as dual-zone climate control, 18-inch wheel, and blind spot warning system, it’s the right mix of features and reasonable price,” Edmunds explains.
Meanwhile, Autotrader says, “Upgrading to the Select trim adds some nice features to the Mazda3 while keeping the price reasonable.” The site continued, “Compared with the Base trim, Select has extensive upgrades such as a rear armrest with cupholders, door mirror turn signals, leather-wrapped steering wheel, black leatherette seats, and a shift knob.”
Autotrader further explains that the blind-spot monitoring feature adds safety and confidence to lane changes, while the dual-zone automatic climate control keeps drivers and passengers comfortable.
Two experts agree that the Mazda3 Preferred trim is the best value for the money
Car and Driver and Autotrader agree that the Preferred trim is the best Mazda3 sedan trim. Autotrader says, “For most drivers, the mid-range Preferred trim is the best value in the 2023 Mazda3 lineup.” Meanwhile, Car and Driver explained, “When you select the Preferred trim level, you get standard features such as heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings.”
Autotrader also says that the heated seats are excellent if you live in a cold climate, while the power moonroof feature opens up the interior of the Mazda3 to lots of fresh air. The expert explains that the memory package ensures that your seat and mirrors will always be in a perfect position.
Edmunds says, “While the Mazda3 display screen lacks touchscreen functionality, the single-knob controller of the Preferred trim is intuitive. This controller-based interface is one of the best around because the buttons are easy to see and understand.”
Autotrader thinks the 2.5 S trim is well-equipped for a base car
According to Autotrader, the base Mazda3 2.5 S trim is well-equipped for a base car. The reviewer says the model uses a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, and FWD, making it a perfect competitor in the sedan class of cars.
Car and Driver notes that Mazda has dropped the model’s base 2.0-liter four-cylinder for 2023 for a new Mazda entry-level engine — the 2.5-Liter cylinder. The expert says, “The engine gets a 5-hp bump to 191 horsepower. The upgrade helps the car deliver a more fuel-efficient EPA, estimated at 28 MPG city and 37 MPG highway.”
Meanwhile, Autotrader says the standard i-Activsense safety technology suite bundles adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beam driver attention alert.
