The 2021 Mazda 3 is a standout compact car, offering a blend of sporty performance, premium styling, and advanced technology at an accessible price point. Available as both a sedan and a hatchback, this model caters to a wide range of drivers, from those seeking affordability to those craving turbocharged power. With seven distinct trim levels for the sedan and additional options for the hatchback, choosing the right 2021 Mazda 3 can feel overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll break down each trim level, highlighting their features, performance, and value to help you find the perfect fit for your driving needs. Let’s explore the 2021 Mazda 3 trims and discover which one is right for you!
Overview of the 2021 Mazda 3 Trim Levels
The 2021 Mazda 3 comes in seven sedan trims—2.0 Sedan, 2.5 S Sedan, Select, Preferred, Premium, 2.5 Turbo, and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus—and multiple hatchback configurations, as detailed by Kelley Blue Book. Each trim offers unique features, engine options, and price points, ranging from the budget-friendly 2.0 Sedan at $20,500 MSRP to the top-tier 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus at $33,750 for the hatchback, according to Sam Leman Mazda. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, luxury, or performance, there’s a Mazda 3 trim for you.
2021 Mazda 3 Sedan Trim Levels
2.0 Sedan
Starting at $20,500 MSRP, the 2.0 Sedan is the entry-level trim, ideal for budget-conscious buyers. It features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD). Standard features include an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, keyless entry, push-button start, and safety tech like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, as noted by Edmunds. This trim is sedan-only and perfect for those seeking value without sacrificing style.
2.5 S Sedan
Priced at $21,500 MSRP, the 2.5 S Sedan upgrades to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It retains FWD and adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, making it a great step up for tech-savvy drivers. The 8-speaker audio system and rain-sensing wipers enhance its appeal, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Select
Starting at $22,700 MSRP, the Select trim introduces 18-inch alloy wheels, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Available in both sedan and hatchback forms, it offers the 2.5-liter non-turbo engine with optional all-wheel drive (AWD), as highlighted by phmazda.com. This trim balances affordability and premium features.
Preferred
The Preferred trim, starting at $24,350 MSRP for the sedan and $25,350 for the hatchback, adds luxury touches like a power-sliding glass moonroof, heated front seats, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings. Its sophisticated style makes it a popular choice for comfort-focused buyers, per Sam Leman Mazda.
Premium
Priced at $26,850 MSRP for the sedan and $27,850 for the hatchback, the Premium trim elevates the Mazda 3 with leather-trimmed seats, a Bose 12-speaker audio system, and an adaptive front-lighting system. It’s the only trim offering a manual transmission (hatchback, FWD only), appealing to driving enthusiasts, as noted in Edmunds consumer reviews.
2.5 Turbo
Starting at $29,900 MSRP for the sedan and $30,900 for the hatchback, the 2.5 Turbo trim introduces a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivering 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Standard AWD and a six-speed automatic ensure robust performance, making it ideal for those seeking a sporty drive, according to Kelley Blue Book.
2.5 Turbo Premium Plus
The top-tier 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, starting at $32,450 MSRP for the sedan and $33,750 for the hatchback, combines luxury and performance. It includes navigation, a 360-degree camera system, front and rear parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. This trim, detailed by MotorTrend, offers a near-luxury experience at a competitive price.
2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback Trim Levels
The 2021 Mazda 3 hatchback shares most trims with the sedan (2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Premium, 2.5 Turbo, and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus) but skips the 2.0 Sedan trim. Starting at $22,500 MSRP for the 2.5 S hatchback, it offers 20 cubic feet of cargo space compared to the sedan’s 13 cubic feet, making it more practical for families or those needing extra storage, as per Kelley Blue Book. The hatchback’s sporty design and available manual transmission in the Premium trim appeal to enthusiasts.
Key Features Across Trims
Every 2021 Mazda 3 trim comes with Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite, including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims add premium touches like leather upholstery, a head-up display, and a Bose audio system. The interior, praised by Edmunds for its upscale feel, features soft-touch materials and a rotary dial-controlled infotainment system, though some editors note the lack of touchscreen functionality can be less intuitive.
Performance and Engine Options
The 2021 Mazda 3 offers three engine choices: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder (155 hp, sedan only), a 2.5-liter non-turbo four-cylinder (186 hp), and a 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder (250 hp with premium fuel). All trims use a six-speed automatic, except the Premium hatchback’s manual option. AWD is available on most trims except the 2.0 Sedan and Premium manual, enhancing traction for diverse conditions, as detailed by Kelley Blue Book.
Which 2021 Mazda 3 Trim Is Right for You?
Choosing the right trim depends on your priorities. The 2.0 Sedan offers the best value for budget buyers, while the Preferred trim, recommended by Kelley Blue Book, balances features and price. Performance enthusiasts will love the 2.5 Turbo or Premium with its manual option, while the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus caters to those seeking luxury. Test-driving at a dealership, as suggested by Sam Leman Mazda, can help you decide.
Why Choose the 2021 Mazda 3?
The 2021 Mazda 3 stands out for its premium interior, engaging handling, and strong safety ratings, earning a 5-star NHTSA score, per Kelley Blue Book. Its competitive pricing and sporty dynamics make it a compelling alternative to rivals like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. Whether you choose the sedan for sleek style or the hatchback for practicality, the Mazda 3 delivers a driving experience that punches above its class.
On 2021 Mazda 3 Trims
The 2021 Mazda 3 offers a trim for every driver, from the affordable 2.0 Sedan to the high-performance 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. With its stylish design, advanced safety features, and versatile engine options, it’s a top choice in the compact car segment. Visit your local Mazda dealer, as recommended by phmazda.com, to explore these trims in person and find your ideal Mazda 3. Which trim catches your eye? Share your thoughts in the comments!