2019 Mazda Mazda3 Preferred

The 2019 Mazda3 is Mazda's compact car, offered as both a sedan and a hatchback, and it's a natural rival to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Driving the Mazda3 feels more connected than most in this class, with sharp steering and a chassis that encourages a spirited pace. Inside, the cabin is a cut above the class norm, with high-quality materials and a clean, driver-focused layout. The hatchback offers more cargo flexibility than the sedan, though rear seat space is on the snug side for taller passengers. The Preferred is the mid-level trim, sitting between the Select and Premium, and adds leatherette upholstery, a power driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. It uses the 2.5L I4 producing 186 horsepower paired with the automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, which gives it confident traction in rain or light snow.