The 2026 Mazda3 has arrived with minor changes. Every model now comes standard with an eight-speaker Mazda Harmonic Acoustics audio system. The other big change? Mazda discontinued the Carbon Turbo Edition for both the sedan and hatchback. That means if you want the turbocharged engine, it’s only available on the Premium Plus model now.
Every 2026 Mazda3 comes standard with the i-ActivSense driver assistance suite. That includes automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. Blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert also comes standard. On the infotainment side, an 8.8-inch display with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, too. The Carbon Edition trim and up include wireless smartphone integration.
Meanwhile, the Turbo Premium Plus adds a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, front and rear parking sensors, a surround view camera, and paddle shifters. To further distinguish Turbo models, it receives a rear roof spoiler, black aerodynamic accents, and a black front air dam on the hatchback. It also receives additional driver assistance technologies like Cruising and Traffic Support, and rear automatic emergency braking.
2026 Mazda3: Familiar Power
Under the hood, every Mazda3 comes standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The S models feature a naturally aspirated version with 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. Interestingly, that’s down 5 hp compared to the 2025 model, but we doubt anyone would notice the difference. Turbo Premium Plus models have a turbocharged variant with 250 hp and 320 lb-ft. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard, while a six-speed manual transmission is available only on the hatchback’s 2.5 S Premium trim. AWD is available on all trims except the manual model, which is front-drive only. On the other hand, the Carbon Edition and Turbo Premium Plus come standard with AWD.
The 2026 Mazda3 is now on sale, and you can configure the hatchback now on Mazda’s consumer site.
Source: Mazda
