Car Share -- Mazda 3 Sedan turbo

At the end of 2020, Mazda was finally encouraged to put a turbo engine in the Mazda3, although initially only in the hatchback version. After little more than a year of waiting, the Mazda 3 Sedan 2022 finally debuts this engine in Mexico, and it does so under the same formula as the five-door model: a fast and highly equipped compact, but is it capable of satisfying the appetite? Sports car of the most enthusiastic drivers? We had it to the test.

Most Mazda models vary very little in appearance between versions. The Mazda3 Signature Sedan - which is the official name of this turbocharged version - is no exception. With respect to the rest of the range, you will identify it only by the glossy black finish of its 18" wheels and mirror caps, as well as discreet side skirts.

Its appearance makes it clear that it does not pursue any racing spirit, but fits in with the concept of luxury and refinement that Mazda has aimed for in recent years. Its design fits perfectly with the aesthetic current that the brand calls KODO, that is, a long and low hood, sharp features at the front, clean sides and a rear with double exhaust outlet and turbine-shaped LED taillights.

The cabin does not present a radical transformation either. The interiors of the Signature version, in fact, without the same as the most equipped version of the Mazda3 without a turbo engine. This does not have to be a bad thing, when what we find is a very good impression of quality, thanks to the use of wholesale leather; we find it on the dashboard, in the doors and in the center console.

One of its strongest aspects is the equipment. The Mazda3 Sedan Signature includes a smart key, sunroof, steerable LED headlights, rain sensor, infotainment with 8" screen, head-up display, driver's seat with electric adjustment and position memories, electrochromic rearview mirror, electric parking brake and, as an exclusive element of this version, electrochromic left side mirror. The unit that arrived at our garage —which was already a Mexican spec— did have a Bose sound system, although the technical sheet did not specify it. Mazda had told us that the disappearance of the Bose sound from the catalog was temporary.

In general, the cabin of the Mazda3 Sedan leaves a very good taste in the mouth, although there are two aspects with room for improvement. One is the offer of driving assistance. Despite being the most luxurious version of the catalog, it only offers a blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert, but no autonomous emergency braking or adaptive cruise control, as is the case in most top-of-the-line compact sedans.

The other aspect to take into account is the interior space. At the front, it is very easy to accommodate, but tall passengers will travel somewhat cramped in the rear seats; Headroom is fair, as is legroom, compared to other sedans in the same category.

A sedan as comfortable as it is fast

As I have said on previous occasions, the Signature surname at Mazda is not synonymous with sports, although it is fast. This version adheres to the concept of comfort that Mazda has recently worked on, with handling that is capable of arousing joy at the wheel, but its priority is comfort.

Perhaps its numbers make us think of a sports sedan, although in reality we are facing a Mazda3 with the same chassis as any other version. If you've driven it, you'll agree that all of the car's reactions feel smooth and even silky, but at the same time it has very good steering weight, instant response, and suspension with a certain degree of firmness—and very good support. In general, the car conveys a great sense of connection with the driver.