We may be just halfway through 2023, but news about 2024 cars is already rolling in. Now, the smallest Mazda car is getting a few new touches (and, unfortunately, a higher price tag). The latest news about the 2024 Mazda3, shows off a new trim level and a handful of updates for the new model year.

Will there be a new Mazda3 in 2024?

The biggest change to the 2024 Mazda3 lineup is the introduction of a brand-new trim level. The new Carbon Turbo model blends the black and terracotta interior touches and dark graphite metallic exterior paint. You’ll also find black exterior badging and carbon-fiber-styled interior accents that set this model apart.

For the first time, the Carbon Edition Mazda3 is available with the upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Pricing for the new Carbon Turbo starts at $31,750 for the sedan and $32,950 for the hatchback model. In addition, all Carbon Turbo models feature all-wheel drive.

Technology updates in the new Mazda3 lineup

In addition to the all-new Carbon Turbo, each new Mazda3 is available with a fresh infotainment display. The new 10.25-inch display comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, improving connectivity and keeping pace with models like the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra.

The new tech is standard on all Mazda3 Trims Carbon Edition and above, and it is available on the base, Select Sport, and Preferred models.

Pricing for the 2024 Mazda3

*Note: Pricing reflects MSRP + Destination Charges per Mazda

Model	Drivetrain	Sedan	Hatchback
Mazda3 2.5 S	FWD	$25,335	N/A
Mazda3 2.5 S Select Sport	FWD	$25,855	$26,855
Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred	FWD	$27,355	$28,555
Mazda3 2.5 S Carbon Edition	AWD	$30,225	$31,425
Mazda3 2.5 S Premium (6MT)	FWD	N/A	$31,515
Mazda3 2.5 Carbon Turbo	AWD	$32,915	$34,115
Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus	AWD	$36,615	$37,815

Looking at the chart above, the cheapest 2024 Mazda3 is now just over $25,000 after destination charges. That pricing does not include tax, registration, or other fees. In all, that means a new Mazda3 will cost between $27,000 and $28,500 for the most basic model.

That’s unfortunate, as just a few years ago a new compact sedan would start at or below $20,000.

While Mazda is shooting for a more premium status than its competitors, that even base compact sedans are approaching $30,000 is disheartening.

That said, the base Mazda3 isn’t shy on features. Unlike the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra, the new Mazda3 comes standard with blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Those features are in addition to the laundry list of forward-facing safety features including pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking.

Engine options and fuel economy for the 2024 Mazda3

Engine:	Horsepower	Torque (lb. ft.)	Fuel Economy (Based on MY2023)
2.5L N/A 4-cyl FWD	191	186	28 city / 37 highway
2.5L N/A 4-cyl AWD	191	186	26 city / 35 highway
2.5T 4-cyl AWD	227	310	23 city / 32 highway

One thing we can’t figure out is why the 2024 Mazda3 non-turbo is available with a manual transmission, while the turbocharged version is not. A turbo Mazda3 with a stick and all-wheel drive would approach hot-hatch territory without question. Considering the success of the GR Corolla and Golf R, it’s hard to understand why Mazda isn’t leaning into that potential.

Technically speaking, it’s because Mazda would need to rework the transmission to deal with the all-wheel drive system. But the results would land the Mazda3 high in the minds of enthusiasts and would likely earn it a wealth of industry accolades.

No facelift for the 2024 Mazda3

For 2024, the Mazda3 is getting just a few minor updates. The last major facelift came in 2019, so the smallest Mazda is due for an update in the coming years. Thus far, Mazda’s EV efforts have been both minimal and underwhelming, so an electric Mazda3 isn’t likely in the cards anytime soon.

That’s fine by us, as the current Mazda3 formula is an excellent blend of luxury, performance, and style. As one of the best-looking compact sedans (or hatchbacks!) on the market, Mazda is riding the wave until a new generation comes along.