- the 2021 mazda 3 is newly available with a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine.
- offered only with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the 2.5 turbo model makes 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.
- this new engine choice will arrive at dealerships by the end of the year.
the 2021 mazda 3 sedan and hatchback will soon be available with the same turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine that's offered in the cx-5, cx-9, and 6. with 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, this engine will endow the 3 compact with a whole lot more grunt—but sadly for enthusiasts, the turbo 3 is not intended as a performance model. the 2.5t engine comes only with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, and it is pitched as a range-topping luxury trim level rather than a revival of the mazdaspeed 3 hot hatchback.
2.5 turbo models barely look different than naturally aspirated mazda 3 models, featuring only a turbo badge and larger exhaust tips. the sedan has a blacked-out grille and a different front bumper. there are no notable chassis upgrades to go along with the more powerful engine, either.
the turbo comes similarly equipped as the naturally aspirated premium trim but adds a heated steering wheel and a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror. an optional premium plus package for the turbo (pictured) includes a black spoiler and a subtle body kit, along with equipment including a 360-degree camera system, navigation, and leather upholstery.
we anticipate the 2021 mazda 3 2.5 turbo to start above $30,000 given that loaded awd versions of the 2020 model already sit around $29,000. the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four engine with 186 horsepower continues for 2021 in the renamed 2.5s models, while the 2021 3 sedan now offers a new base 2.0 model with a 155-hp naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four. a six-speed automatic transmission is standard across the board, except in the 2.5s hatchback premium model, which continues on as the only version of the 3 that offers a six-speed manual.
the naturally aspirated 2021 mazda 3 models will arrive at dealerships starting in august, mazda says, while the turbocharged version will go on sale by the end of the year.