2016 Mazda Mazda3 I Sport

The Mazda3 is Mazda's compact car, sold as a sedan or a hatchback, and it's the one that gives the Civic and Corolla a run for their money. It's genuinely fun to drive, with sharp steering and a chassis that loves a twisty road, though the ride is on the firm side. The interior feels upscale for the class, but rear legroom is tight, so it's better for two than for a full car of adults. A backup camera and a touchscreen infotainment system are standard, and higher trims add blind-spot monitoring and a head-up display. The I Sport is the base sedan, with 16-inch steel wheels and cloth seats, and it skips the I Touring's blind-spot monitoring and sunroof. The standard rearview camera and push-button start are nice touches at this price, but you'll want to budget for alloy wheels if the steel covers bother you.