The Mazda3 has been updated for the 2022 model year and along with the slight changes to its color palette and pricing, there’s a new Carbon Edition trim level. In case that trim moniker sounds familiar, you might remember that Mazda released a Carbon Edition of the Mazda6, CX-5, and CX-9 earlier this year. But what’s so special about the Carbon Edition trim?

The 2022 Mazda3 Carbon Edition has a special color and sportier look inside and out

One of the main highlights of choosing the 2022 Mazda3 Carbon Edition is that it’s available in Polymetal Gray, which is a grayish color with a blue hue. To some, this color might seem a little boring. But to us, it really makes the sculptured body lines of the car stand out and its neutral tone contrasts well with the black 18-inch wheels. For even more contrast, Mazda included black heated side mirrors and a matching antenna for that more aggressive carbon look.

The Carbon Edition exclusivity extends to the Mazda3’s interior as well with an available red upholstery option. To sweeten the deal, Mazda is even including a Bose Premium sound system with 12 speakers and a three-month trial to Sirius satellite radio.

As for the rest of the interior features, the Mazda3 Carbon Edition has the same configuration as the Preferred package trim level. The most notable features in that trim include a power moonroof, leatherette seats, heated front seats with power adjustability, and a gloss black front grille.

Does the Carbon Edition mean more power?

Sadly, no. You find a special turbocharged engine in the Carbon Edition trim level. However, you will find a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter engine under the hood. It’s one of the three engines offered on the 2022 Mazda3 and it produces 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, that powerplant is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission that routes power solely to the front wheels.

The 2022 Mazda3 Carbon Edition will be available in sedan or hatchback form. Pricing for this special trim level starts at $26,400 for the sedan and $27,400 for the hatchback, and if you want that Polymetal Gray paint job, then you’ll have to shell out an additional $395.

Are there any other changes to the 2022 Mazda3?

Not really, save for a new Platinum Quartz Metallic paint job, which Motor1 reports is not a premium color that costs extra. Otherwise, prospective Mazda3 buyers can expect the same type of equipment and trim configurations as last year.

Also, if you’re wondering what the other two engine choices are, the entry-level Mazda3 is equipped with a 2.0-liter engine that pushes out 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque, and the higher trims are powered by a turbo 2.5-liter mill. That engine caters to those who crave a little more gusto out their daily drive by serving up a healthy 250 hp and pavement-pounding 320 lb-ft of torque. What’s even better is that the turbo engine can be connected to a six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drivetrain.

According to Mazda, the 2022 Mazda3 and its new Carbon Edition should appear in dealer showrooms “this winter.”