The introduction of the Skyactiv-G 2.5T turbocharged engine is the Mazda3’s main update for the 2021 model year but not the only one.
Besides the new 250 HP range-topping powertrain, Mazda has announced several updates for its compact hatchback and sedan in the United States, highlighted by another new engine. Kicking off the range is a Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline unit rated at 155 HP and 150 lb-ft (203 Nm) of torque.
Offered exclusively on the 2021 Mazda3 sedan, this engine comes with front-wheel drive and standard G-Vectoring Control Plus.
The Skyactiv-G 2.5 engine carries over on both the 2021 Mazda3 hatchback and sedan in S grade, offering 186 HP and 186 lb-ft (252 Nm) of torque with standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive.
Besides the new powertrains, the 2021 Mazda3 offers a standard three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services, which brings in-car Wi-Fi hot spot with six-months or 2GB trial as well as the ability to monitor or control certain features of the car through the MyMazda app. Standard exterior features include LED DRLs, automatic on/off LED headlights, LED taillights, 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, matte finish front grille, rearview camera and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Inside, all 2021 Mazda3 models are equipped with an 8.8-inch center display, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio, two USB inputs, AM/FM eight-speaker sound system with HD RadioTM, push button start, electronic parking brake and black cloth seats. In addition to all the features on the base Mazda3 2.0, the 2.5S adds standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The i-Activsense safety suite comes standard too and includes Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go function, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert and High Beam Control.
Also new for 2021 is the Mazda3 2.5S with Select Package which becomes available for the hatchback for the first time, while continuing to be offered on the sedan. The Mazda3 2.5S with Preferred Package now adds a power moonroof, while the Premium Package gains navigation, Bose 12-speaker premium audio with aluminum speaker grilles, SiriusXM that includes a three-month trial subscription, and a shark fin antenna.
More importantly, the front-wheel-drive Mazda3 2.5 hatchback with the Premium Package will be the only one offering the Skyactiv-MT six-speed manual transmission. The 2021 Mazda3 will go on sale in the fall of 2020, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.
Note: 2020 Mazda3 pictured