Mazda 3 2024: A New Suna Special Edition

Although it may not be a luxury and prestige car, the Mazda 3 possesses all the qualities required to belong to that category. Its overall average is higher than that of its rivals in almost all versions. It also exudes great elegance and finesse commonly found in major brands. Not to mention its driving experience, which is significantly more dynamic than that of other mainstream cars, even without considering the sport versions. The Mazda 3 is one of the most comprehensive and enjoyable cars on the market. It has everything needed to please, nothing less.

The Mazda 3 is among the models set to receive a Suna special edition for 2024. This new version draws inspiration from trends in muted and natural colors. By the way, if you didn't know, "Suna" literally translates to "sand." This is what inspired the new Metallic Zircon color that will be exclusive to the Suna versions. It's far from camouflage, and I would even say that the 2024 Mazda 3 Suna is likely to turn quite a few heads in my opinion.

Range and Prices

It's said that the price of everything has been continuously rising since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis, and that's partly true. However, the price of the 2024 Mazda 3 remains quite reasonable. We're talking about an increase of a few hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on the chosen version. The compact car from the Japanese manufacturer remains one of the most affordable vehicles in its category currently available on the market. It's simply astonishing when you consider that the Mazda 3 is such a complete and high-end car.

Mazda 3 Sedans

GX – $24,200

GS – $26,700

GT – $33,000

Mazda 3 Sport

GX – $24,950

GS – $27,450

GT – $32,450

Suna – $38,900

Category and Competition

Even though SUVs are more popular, there are certain car categories that still hold strong appeal, especially compact cars. The models in this category are appreciated for their affordability and fuel efficiency. To be a strong contender in this segment, one must also offer dynamic driving, advanced technologies, and eye-catching design. Fortunately, all of these are features that the 2024 Mazda 3 offers, which is why it's one of the most recommended cars in its category.

Rivals: Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta.

Design and Interior

Whether one prefers the look of a classic sedan or the more adventurous appeal of a hatchback, the 2024 Mazda 3 has something to satisfy. Both variants of the Japanese manufacturer's compact car are very stylish and even exhibit a certain character. The 2024 Mazda 3 is a car that stands out on the road and easily captures attention.

As for its interior, the manufacturer has focused on simplicity. Nevertheless, the assembly quality is impeccable, and the materials are of high quality. This results in a surprisingly high-end interior for a mainstream car.

Technologies

The multimedia system of the Mazda 3 remains complex for someone unaccustomed, but this is the major drawback of the Japanese compact in terms of technology. For everything else, the Mazda 3 doesn't lack anything, both in terms of entertainment and safety. Certain versions feature a 10.25-inch screen that integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technologies.

Performance

The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine has been eliminated from the 2024 Mazda 3 lineup, which means that the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine now serves as the entry-level powertrain. This engine produces a power of 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, a significant improvement over the 2.0-liter engine. Additionally, according to Natural Resources Canada, the average fuel consumption for this engine is 8.4 L/100 km in the city and 6.3 L/100 km on the highway, which is excellent. This engine can be paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission depending on the chosen version. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are also available depending on the version.

Moving on to the second engine option, there's a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine produces 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque with an 87 octane rating. However, if you add premium gasoline with a 93 octane rating, the power increases to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, making the Japanese compact particularly enjoyable to drive. Unlike the other engine, the turbocharged engine is only available with the automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Weak Points

Not surprisingly, my biggest critique is directed towards the multimedia system of the 2024 Mazda 3. Even though the performance of the GT version is breathtaking, there's clearly a lack of a true sporty version in the 2024 Mazda 3 lineup.

Strengths

The Mazda 3 doesn't lack anything in terms of equipment and remains among the most affordable cars in its category. It's a charming and refined model. The new Suna version will undoubtedly turn heads wherever it goes.

Signature Element

The Mazda 3 is practically a luxury car at the price of a mainstream vehicle. If that's not enough to convince you, I don't know what else to say.

Closing Remarks

The Mazda 3 has had a journey filled with challenges, which prevented it from becoming the best-selling car in its category at one point. Today, the Mazda 3 has matured and is one of the best cars you can get.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier