A Compact Car That’s Still in the Game
With the Mazda6 gone for years, the Mazda3 has remained one of the few compact sedans and hatchbacks still sold in the US, a segment that has seen shrinking competition as crossovers take over the market. Mazda continues to offer it mainly because of its balance of premium feel and approachable pricing.
For buyers, it has meant a new-car option that doesn’t push too far into entry-level luxury territory while still feeling a step above typical compact sedans.
Now, the 2026 model year has arrived with a modest bump in pricing. The increase is not dramatic, but it does raise the question of whether buyers should consider paying slightly more for the refreshed 2026 version, or instead look at 2025 inventory currently on dealer lots.
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Discounted 2025 Models Are Available
The base 2026 Mazda3 2.5 S sedan now starts at $24,550, representing only $400 increase from the outgoing 2025 model’s MSRP of $24,150. Meanwhile, the Mazda3 Hatchback also employs the same price hike, while higher trims follow the same pattern. The most expensive Mazda3 is the Turbo Premium Plus hatchback, priced at $37,890. Of note, these prices don’t include a $1,235 destination charge.
Dealer listings for 2025 models on Cars.com show that inventory units are often discounted. For instance, a 2025 Mazda3 2.5 S Select Sport with a listed MSRP of $27,120 was being sold for $22,999 after a dealer discount. A Select Sport models are discounted based on inventory listings, while the base 2.5 S shows a discount of around $1,000.
Buyers who value the absolute lowest cost may find opportunities in inventory listings, but going for inventory units means skipping the updates that come with the new model year.
Are the 2026 Updates Worth it?
The 2026 Mazda3 introduces a few updates to justify its higher sticker price. Chief among them is the standardization of the Mazda Harmonic Acoustics eight-speaker audio system, replacing the old six-speaker setup. Upper trims continue to offer a 12-speaker Bose system, while the Turbo Premium Plus gains a larger 10.25-inch display with limited touchscreen functionality. Amazon Alexa Built-in is added from the Select Sport trim upward, enhancing convenience for tech-focused buyers.
From a value perspective, the changes make sense, especially considering the $400 hike. Buyers who want the latest tech and upgraded base audio will find the 2026 model more appealing, while those indifferent to such updates may see little downside in choosing a 2025 car.
The price gap on paper is small, but local inventory pricing suggests the choice will depend less on MSRP and more on the deals offered by individual dealers. Mazda said the 2026 Mazda3 will arrive at dealerships later this year.
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