2024 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus Review

Calling all driving enthusiasts!  This week I'm behind the wheel of the fun-to-drive 2024 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo.  The Mazda3 is the last sedan standing in Mazda's lineup - and for good reason - following the demise of the Mazda6 after the 2021 model year. Introduced as a 2004 model, the Mazda3 is the brand's best-selling vehicle in the world, with more than 5 million sold since its debut. With its distinctly Mazda driving dynamics,  the Mazda3 an inherently important part of the automaker's success. For 2024, it continues to be available as either a sedan and hatchback.  Year-to-date as of March, sedan sales have the hatchback beat by roughly 1,000.

Exterior

Mazda's current design aesthetic can pretty much be summed up in three words: sleek, sculpted and sophisticated. My test vehicle's Soul Red Crystal Metallic is complimented by my Premium Plus trim's 18-inch black alloy wheels. 

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The top-of-the-line model is also equipped with gloss black aerodynamic accents, LED signature front and rear lighting, black heated side mirrors,  and an adaptive front lighting system.  In back, large dual exhaust outlets and a black rear lip spoiler add to its allure. Note, the Mazda3's last redesign was in 2019 so a next-generation model is likely due soon.

Performance  

A base 2.5-liter engine delivers 191-horsepower. But the 2.5-Turbo engine is where it's at - delivering 227-horses and 310 pound-feet torque using regular gas.  It bumps up to 250-horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque using premium.   The only issue I have with the Turbo powertrain - the 6-speed automatic transmission. Sorry Mazda, it's time for it to go. It's just not smooth.

Despite that criticism, the Mazda's driving dynamics are made for driving enthusiasts. Its sharp handling, excellent acceleration and engaged steering are inarguable.  G Vectoring Control Plus and standard all-wheel drive add to its confident command of the road. Superbly comfy and supportive seats keep you in place.

Interior

The Mazda3 boasts perhaps the most refined cabin in class along with best-in-class near luxury. I'm talking about supremely comfortable leather seats and cushiony soft-touch materialsIs. The Premium Plus trim's available two-toned white interior gives off an upscale vibe along with it bright finish interior trim and aluminum Bose speakers adorning the door panels.

The supremely cushiony, yet supportive 8-way power Nappa leather driver seat is a highlight. Be forewarned, however, the front seats are on the slimmer side.  The heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel feels as great as it looks. Though I will say the paddle shifters could use some jazzing up.  Above the steering wheel you're greeted by a 7-inch digital driver display.

A slim glossy black center console houses two cupholders, the leather-wrapped gear shifter, the multi-media command and volume controls, drive mode select and parking brake and brake auto hold controls. You'll find two USB-C ports in the console bin.

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An available 10.25-inch infotainment display is new for 2024 - and the really big news here is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto touchscreen control.  However,  I continue to lament Mazda's infotainment system in general. I find it cumbersome to use via the multi-function command controller. Switching radio stations typically ends up being too much effort. Thankfully you can also use voice command. The Mazda3 Premium Plus is also equipped with navigation, and a 360-degree monitor with great real estate.  

The 60/40 split reclining second-row is equal to the first in terms of upscale materials. While leg-room isn't an issue, headroom could be for someone very tall. The seat backs are soft-touch along with the door-panels and a drop-down center console offers cup holders for passengers.  Window real estate isn't terribly impressive due to the high door panels.  

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This model is also equipped with dual-zone climate, three-level heated seats, a wireless charger, power sunroof,  and carpeted floor mats.

I found cargo space surprisingly roomy for a compact sedan. Mazda even made space for a temporary spare. Since there is no power trunk close, I was happy to see the convenient grab handle which aids in closing the trunk. A lever releases the 2nd-row seats if you need space for longer items.

Safety 

New for 2024:  The Premium Plus adds Rear Direction Base Safety, which includes Smart Brake Support-Reverse and Smart Brake Support-Rear Crossing, to its full list of i-Activsense suite of safety features. 

Other upgrades for the top-of-the-line trim include Traffic Jam Assist, 360° View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors, Homelink added to the frameless auto-dim rearview mirror along with an Active Driving Display and Traffic Sign Recognition.

Options and What You'll Pay

My test vehicle's single option is the premium paint hue for $595, bringing the total MSRP with destination to $37, 210.  

Verdict

Every time I get behind the wheel of a Mazda3 I'm always happy to be reminded of how truly fun to drive it is.  It's driving dynamics and well-crafted interior impress every time.