2026 Mazda3 Keeps Same Prices, Loses 5 Horsepower
As it turns out, the Mazda3 is exactly the same for the 2026 model year. The next generation will have to wait a little longer. While many fans will be disappointed, the executives at Mazda Canada won't complain, with sales of the compact car up 46% after the first three quarters of 2025 compared to the same period of the previous year.
The good news for shoppers considering the Mazda3 is that prices remain unchanged for 2026. The first units—still made in Mexico, remember—will arrive at dealerships this winter.
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Mazda says it has improved standard content and made some packaging adjustments. In reality, the changes are negligible. The lineup once again consists of three trim levels including GX, GS (with optional Luxury Package) and GT.
In the powertrain department, the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine is now rated at 186 horsepower (down from 191 horsepower in 2025), while torque remains at 186 lb-ft. The same is true for the 2026 CX-30 subcompact SUV, as announced earlier this week.
The turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine (227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft, or up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft with premium gasoline) continues to be an option with the top-of-the-line GT model exclusively.
Mazda's i-Activ all-wheel drive system is available on GS and GT models, while the six-speed manual transmission can only be specified with the five-door Mazda3 Sport GT. At least it sticks around for driving enthusiasts. All other Mazda3s use a six-speed automatic transmission.
Model |
Drivetrain |
Mazda3 |
Mazda3 Sport |
|
Mazda3 GX |
FWD |
$25,250 |
$26,000 |
|
Mazda3 GS |
FWD |
$27,850 |
$28,600 |
|
Mazda3 GS Luxury Package |
FWD |
$30,050 |
$30,800 |
|
Mazda3 GS Luxury Package |
AWD |
$32,050 |
$32,800 |
|
Mazda3 GT Sport (Manual) |
FWD |
- |
$34,800 |
|
Mazda3 GT |
FWD |
$34,050 |
$34,800 |
|
Mazda3 GT |
AWD |
$36,050 |
$36,800 |
|
Mazda3 GT Turbo |
AWD |
$38,450 |
$39,200 |
Unlike the CX-30, the 2026 Mazda3 doesn't add new Kuro editions. This clearly indicates that the car is nearing the end of its current cycle and a redesign is not far away. Will the next generation resemble the sensational Vision X-Coupé concept unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in late October? Stay tuned!