Jan 8, 2021

Hatchback or sedan? Some people are diehard devotees to one or the other and won’t be moved from their position, but for the rest of us, it’s worth taking time to note the differences in the new Mazda3 sedan and hatchback options. One might just be a better fit for you than the other.

Sedan or Hatchback?

Looks and Performance

In the US, sedans blend in while hatchbacks tend to stand out. Either one could be right for you, depending on what you want in a car. Maybe you prefer to stand out a bit, but maybe you’d rather go with a tried-and-true, classic look. Either way, Mazda has you covered in this model.

The only real difference you’ll notice in driving is that the hatchback has a bit larger blindspot. Some people will have a problem with that while others won’t care at all (but see “pricing and performance” below, because the hatchback base model comes with blindspot monitoring you don’t get on the base model of the sedan.)

Storage

Mazda’s hatchback version of this car gives you more space–almost seven cubic feet more of it. At the same time, a sedan allows you to actually put everything away in the trunk, out of sight a bit more readily than with a hatchback.

Why might this matter? Well, if you’re hauling the kids and all their junk, a hatchback gives you more space and easier access to what’s behind that second row of seats. If you’re normally using your car to transport shopping or essential work items you’d rather not have out for everyone to see when parked for extended periods, the sedan could be the best choice.

Pricing and Performance

The hatchback comes with a manual transmission option that you don’t get with the sedan, but if you want all-wheel-drive, you have to go with the automatic transmission no matter which style you choose.

The sedan is offered in a base and Select trim that the hatchback is not. The entry-level hatchback-style starts at a higher trim level and comes with certain features standard, like keyless entry. Those features are great, but remember that also means you can get the basic sedan version for about $2,100 cheaper.

Why the Mazda3?

Whichever style you choose, you’re getting a great vehicle in this Mazda. It offers great performance and value. It’s fun to drive, gets excellent mileage, and has a sports car-esque handling that drivers love. Even the standard trims come with some special features you wouldn’t expect on cars in this class, and there are plenty of goodies to add on, like zoned climate control, bigger wheels, a rear-seat armrest, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more.

Plus, this Mazda simply looks good. The styling is remarkable and not at all what you’d expect for the price. Most manufacturers putting that much thought into making you a great-looking car want you to pay from $5,000 to $10,000 more for the privilege.

If you can’t decide whether the Mazda sedan or hatchback versions are right for you, come down to Rochester Mazda and test drive them both!