The MAZDA3 gets a new trim lineup for 2024 but otherwise carries over with minimal changes.

For 2024, the MAZDA3 lineup gets a standard engine, 2.5L 4-cylinder SKYACTIV-G engine that makes 191 horsepower and 186-pound feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth and seamless gear changes and optional all-wheel drive that integrates well with Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus system that operates to ensure smooth driving outputs and predicable handling. A manual 6-speed gearbox is also optional but can only be paired with Premium equipped hatchback models.

The 2.5 Carbon Turbo and Turbo Premium Plus Package trims include a 2.5L SKYACTIV-G turbo engine which produces 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque with regular gasoline and 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque with premium.

The base model comes with keyless entry, push-button start, 8.8-inch screen infotainment system, 8-speaker audio system, two USB ports, 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, Bluetooth connectivity, and adaptive cruise control with traffic stop and go.

The S Preferred Package adds a sunroof, heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, 18-inch wheels, heated front seats, an 8-way power driver seat, driver seat memory, dual-zone climate control, and a leather steering wheel.

The Carbon Edition trim features 18-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, heated front seats, an 8-way power driver seat, leather upholstery, and an 8-speaker sound system.

The Turbo Premium Plus Package trim sits at the top of the lineup and adds steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, a rear lip spoiler, an auto-dimming driver side and rear view mirror, auto-leveling directional headlamps, satellite radio, a 12-speaker sound system, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and integrated navigation.

Features like automatic emergency braking that can prevent a frontal collision, active lane keep assist, and driver-attention system that monitors for drowsiness.

Standard safety systems for the MAZDA3 include anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control. Also front, seat side, curtain, and driver's knee air bags.

The MAZDA3 represents an excellent value. Competitors include compact car titans like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Volkswagen Golf and Subaru Impreza. The MAZDA3 undercuts many of its rivals with its impressive driving characteristics and premium interior quality, while still offering enough space, sophisticated manners and a sleek modern exterior.

The 2024 MAZDA3 includes newly enhanced safety technology and one of the most upscale interiors in its segment. It could be considered to compete not only with offerings from Honda, Toyota and Nissan, but also with some from European entries such as the BMW 2-Series and the Audi A3.

Good balance between luxury and sportiness; spirited handling; excellent fuel economy; premium interior materials; sharp exterior styling