2021 Mazda Mazda3 Preferred

The 2021 Mazda3 is Mazda's compact car, sold as both a sedan and a hatchback, and it competes with the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. It drives with a sporty feel that's rare in this class, with sharp steering and a willing character that makes even a commute fun. The cabin is a cut above the competition, with high-quality materials and a clean design that makes it feel more expensive than it is. Back-seat space is tight, so it's best for two adults or a small family, but the hatchback's folding seats add real cargo flexibility. The Preferred adds leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, and a sunroof over the Select, making it the comfort-focused trim in the front-wheel-drive lineup. Its 2.5L I4 makes 186 horsepower and pairs with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, giving you confident traction in rain or snow without sacrificing the car's eager handling. The Preferred's standard 18-inch wheels and sport-tuned suspension sharpen the ride just enough to feel connected, but you'll notice the firmness on rough pavement.