I’ve been reviewing cars for 15 years, and Mazda has always had a way of sneaking in a little extra personality compared to its competitors. Their engines aren’t the fastest in the class, and they don’t market themselves as raw performance machines, but they consistently deliver more pep and engagement than you’d expect. The 2025 Mazda3 Turbo Premium Plus is a perfect example of that formula—blending sharp design, refined interiors, and genuine driving enjoyment in a compact package.
This week, I did something a little different. I handed the keys to my wife. She’s lived with a Toyota Corolla Hybrid in our driveway, and she’s no stranger to Honda Civics and other compact sedans. I wanted her take on how the Mazda3 stacks up in the real world, beyond my usual journalist’s lens.
First Impressions from the Passenger Seat… and the Driver’s Seat
She immediately liked the acceleration and the overall fun factor. The turbocharged 2.5-liter delivers 250 horsepower (on premium fuel) and 320 lb-ft of torque—plenty for a compact hatchback. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, and for those who miss traditional gear changes, it’s a refreshing alternative to the CVTs found in many rivals.
That said, she felt the Mazda3 sits a little too low to the ground for a mature driver, and she called the back seat “tight” — likely a byproduct of the sloped roofline and hatchback design.
Her verdict: great for singles, couples, or as a first car for a young driver… though she’d be hesitant to hand a new driver this much turbo power.
Fuel economy, at 25 mpg combined, didn’t wow her, especially compared to our daughter’s Corolla Hybrid.
Where We Agree and Where We Don’t
One area we see differently is the interior. My wife thought it was on par with Honda and Toyota. I see it as a clear step up. Mazda’s “mid-century modern” design philosophy works beautifully here—clean lines, upscale textures, and an elegant simplicity that’s refreshing in an age of overcomplicated cabins.
The leather in the Turbo Premium Plus rivals some luxury brands I’ve tested lately, and the padded dash adds a near-luxury touch. The infotainment knob—often criticized by other journalists—is ideally placed for my hand. After a few days, I could navigate without taking my eyes off the road. My only trade-off? The cupholders are a bit of a stretch, but we’re here to drive, not sip lattes.
Exterior and Driving Dynamics
Mazda’s Kodo design language shines here—minimalist yet expressive, with a sleek profile and athletic stance. The Turbo Premium Plus model adds gloss black aero accents, a rear spoiler, and subtle details that elevate the hatchback’s sporty image.
On the road, the Mazda3 continues to deliver on the brand’s “Jinba-ittai” philosophy—car and driver in perfect harmony. The steering feels precise, the chassis stays composed in corners, and the turbo power makes passing easy without drama.
Practicality
The hatchback offers a decent cargo area—enough for groceries, weekend luggage, or sports gear—without stepping into SUV territory. Rear-seat space is still a weak point for taller passengers, but for kids or short trips, it’s manageable.
Safety
Mazda continues to make strides in safety, with the Mazda3 now earning IIHS Top Safety Pick+ honors. The Turbo Premium Plus trim comes well-equipped with Traffic Jam Assist, 360° View Monitor, Smart Brake Support in multiple directions, Adaptive Front Lighting, and more.
Buyer’s Guide: 2025 Mazda3
Who It’s For
• Drivers who value sharp handling and a traditional gas-powered driving experience
• Buyers who appreciate upscale interiors without a luxury-brand price tag
• Singles, couples, or small families who prioritize style and driving enjoyment over maximum rear-seat space
Who Should Look Elsewhere
• Buyers needing roomy rear seating for adults
• Drivers prioritizing maximum fuel economy (Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla Hybrids will be better fits)
• Those wanting the latest in EV or hybrid technology (Mazda currently offers no hybrid in the Mazda3 lineup)
Key Specs – Turbo Premium Plus Hatchback
• Engine: 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 (250 hp on premium fuel / 227 hp on regular)
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Torque: 320 lb-ft (on premium fuel)
• Drivetrain: AWD available (depending on package)
• Fuel Economy: ~25 mpg combined
• Starting MSRP (base 2.5 S sedan): $24,150 + $1,235 destination
• Premium Plus MSRP (Turbo Hatch): Mid-to-upper $30k range depending on options
Top Features on Premium Plus
• Bose 12-speaker premium audio
• 10.25-inch infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (touchscreen when connected)
• Leather seating (black/red on hatch)
• Adaptive Front Lighting
• Traffic Jam Assist & 360° View Monitor
• Smart Brake Support in multiple directions
Competitive Set
• Honda Civic Hatchback (more rear space, hybrid option)
• Toyota Corolla Hatchback (better MPG, hybrid option in sedan)
• Volkswagen Golf GTI (more performance-focused, higher price)
• Subaru Impreza (standard AWD, lower horsepower)
AutoNsider’s Take
The 2025 Mazda3 Turbo Premium Plus is a compact hatchback that still delivers the joy of driving in a market obsessed with efficiency and crossovers. If you can live with modest rear-seat space and average fuel economy, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most engaging and refined compact cars out there—one that feels more “premium” than its price suggests.