Mazda 3 Hatchback vs Sedan: Style, Space, and Performance Compared
Mazda3 Hatchback vs Sedan: A Comprehensive Comparison
The Mazda3 is a compact car that has been in production since 2003. It is available in both hatchback and sedan body styles, and it offers a variety of trim levels and powertrains. The Mazda3 is known for its sporty handling, stylish design, and fuel-efficient engines. In this article, we will compare the hatchback and sedan versions of the Mazda3 to help you decide which one is right for you.
Styling
The Mazda3 hatchback and sedan have different styling cues that give them unique personalities. The hatchback has a more youthful and sporty look, while the sedan has a more sophisticated and elegant appearance. The hatchback's rear end is shorter and features a sloping roofline, while the sedan's rear end is longer and has a more traditional trunk. Both body styles have a sleek and aerodynamic design that is sure to turn heads.
Interior
The interiors of the Mazda3 hatchback and sedan are very similar, but there are a few key differences. The hatchback has a slightly smaller cargo area than the sedan, but it also has a more versatile cargo space. The hatchback's rear seats can be folded down to create a flat load floor, which makes it easy to transport large items. The sedan has a more traditional trunk, which is more secure but less versatile. Both body styles have a well-appointed interior with high-quality materials and comfortable seats.
Performance
The Mazda3 hatchback and sedan are both available with a variety of powertrains. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. The hatchback and sedan are also available with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Both engines offer good fuel economy, with the 2.0-liter engine getting up to 36 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, and the 2.5-liter engine getting up to 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.
Handling
The Mazda3 is known for its sporty handling, and both the hatchback and sedan offer a fun and engaging driving experience. The hatchback is slightly lighter than the sedan, which gives it a slight edge in agility. However, both body styles have a well-tuned suspension that provides a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. The Mazda3 is also very responsive to steering inputs, and it feels confident and composed around corners.
Safety
The Mazda3 hatchback and sedan have both received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both body styles come standard with a variety of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Mazda3 also offers a number of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Price
The Mazda3 hatchback and sedan have similar pricing. The base hatchback starts at $21,500, while the base sedan starts at $22,000. The price of both body styles increases as you move up the trim levels and add options. The top-of-the-line hatchback costs $31,000, while the top-of-the-line sedan costs $32,000.
Conclusion
The Mazda3 hatchback and sedan are both excellent choices for compact car shoppers. They offer a sporty driving experience, stylish design, and a variety of features. The hatchback is a good choice for drivers who want a more versatile cargo space, while the sedan is a good choice for drivers who want a more traditional trunk. Ultimately, the best body style for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
