2018 Mazda Mazda3 Grand Touring

The 2018 Mazda3 is Mazda's compact car, available as a sedan or hatchback, and it's a natural rival to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Its light, responsive steering and eager chassis make it one of the most fun-to-drive cars in its class, with a ride that's firm but controlled. The cabin feels upscale for the price, with comfortable front seats and a clean, driver-focused layout, though rear legroom is tight for adults. Some owners report the infotainment screen can overheat and shut off in extreme heat, but a software update usually fixes it. Stepping up to the Grand Touring adds leather upholstery, a head-up display, and the larger 2.5L engine over the Touring trim. The 2.5L I4 makes 184 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic, getting 30 mpg combined in the hatchback. Only the Grand Touring offers the available adaptive front lighting system, which swivels the headlights into turns.