The 2022 Mazda3 Turbo Is a Modern Sleeper

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below."

The Mazdaspeed3 is one of the coolest hatchbacks to ever roll out of a Mazda factory. It had all the attitude you’d want from a sporty hot hatch and more than enough power for its six-year run that ended in 2013. Unfortunately, the Mazdaspeed banner is gone now, but Mazda’s hatchbacks are still kicking. The fourth-generation Mazda3 made its way to the streets in 2019 and has gone the last few years with few major changes.

But in 2021 the Japanese brand's 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder found a home under the hood of the Mazda3 and turned this sensible five-door into a sleeper hot hatch. This engine has the same power as we’ve seen in its other products: 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers shrink when using non-premium fuel to a still peppy 227 hp and 310 lb-ft. Managing all that power is a six-speed automatic, which sends power to all four wheels.

On this episode of Quick Spin, host Wesley Wren hops behind the wheel of the Mazda3 to put it through its paces. Wren walks around the 2022 Mazda3 Turbo and highlights its styling and exterior features before climbing inside to discuss its interior. Later, he takes you along for a real-time drive review, then chats with West Coast Editor Mark Vaughn about Mazda’s hatchback history and the current market for five-doors. The two discuss the Mazda3’s dynamics and what makes it special.

Tune in below, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever podcasts are played.