2017 Mazda Mazda3 Touring

The Mazda3 is Mazda's compact car, offered as a sedan or hatchback, and it goes up against the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. It's one of the most fun-to-drive cars in its class, with sharp steering and a willing chassis that makes everyday commutes feel engaging. The cabin feels upscale for the price, with quality materials and a clean layout, though rear legroom is tight for taller passengers. Some owners note that road noise is noticeable on the highway, and the low-profile tires on larger wheels can be prone to damage from potholes. The Touring is the sweet spot for most buyers, adding leatherette seats and blind-spot monitoring over the Sport without the 2.5L engine you get in the Grand Touring. Its 2.0L I4 makes 155 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic, which delivers 32 mpg combined and feels eager around town. Standard 18-inch wheels look sharp but the low-profile tires mean you'll feel bumps more than on the Sport's 16s.