If you want a car that is efficient, easy to park and genuinely enjoyable on the drive along Highway 111, the Mazda3 deserves a close look. At Palm Springs Mazda, located at 69200 E Palm Canyon Dr in Cathedral City, you can compare the Mazda3 Sedan and Mazda3 Hatchback side by side, along with the CX-30 crossover for drivers who want a similar size with a higher seating position.
Browse the sedan and hatchback inventory above, then use the comparison table, model overviews and tips below to decide which body style, drivetrain and engine fit how you drive in the Coachella Valley.
All three share Mazda’s Skyactiv-G 2.5 engine and an available 2.5 Turbo, so the choice comes down to body style, cargo flexibility and drivetrain. Click any model name to shop that model’s inventory.
| Model | Size / Type | Seating and Capability | Best For | Shop Inventory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda3 Sedan | Compact sedan | 5 seats, 13.2 cu ft trunk, up to 30 mpg combined (EPA est., FWD) | Commuters who want the best fuel economy in the lineup | Shop Mazda3 Sedan |
| Mazda3 Hatchback | Compact hatchback | 5 seats, 20.1 cu ft cargo, available 6-speed manual | Drivers who want sporty style and a flexible cargo area | Shop Mazda3 Hatchback |
| CX-30 (alternative) | Subcompact crossover | 5 seats, standard AWD, 20.2 to 45.2 cu ft cargo | Car-like driving with a higher seat and standard AWD | Shop Mazda CX-30 |
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Drivetrain | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skyactiv-G 2.5 | 186 | 186 | FWD on most Mazda3 trims; AWD on Mazda3 Carbon Edition and every CX-30 | Efficient everyday driving on regular fuel |
| Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo | 250 (premium) / 227 (regular) | 320 (premium) / 310 (regular) | Standard i-Activ AWD | Strong passing power for I-10 and mountain grades |
The Mazda3 Sedan is the most fuel-efficient model on this page, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city, 36 highway and 30 combined in front-wheel-drive 2.5 S form. Trims range from the 2.5 S and Select Sport to the Preferred, the AWD Carbon Edition and the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. Every sedan uses a 6-speed automatic with manual-shift and Sport modes, and its 13.2 cubic-foot trunk keeps luggage and golf clubs out of sight.
The Mazda3 Hatchback adds a liftgate and 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which makes it easier to load a bike, beach chairs or a weekend’s worth of bags. It is the only body style here with an available 6-speed manual, offered on the 2.5 S Premium. The Carbon Edition adds standard AWD and red leather seats, and the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus brings up to 250 hp, standard AWD and a 360-degree View Monitor.
If you like the Mazda3 but want to sit a little higher, the CX-30 is a natural alternative. It shares the same engine choices, adds standard i-Activ AWD on every trim and offers 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 45.2 with the rear seats folded. The EPA estimates 27 mpg combined for the 2.5 S, so you give up very little efficiency for the extra versatility.
Want even more fun or more space? Explore the MX-5 Miata sports car, the full Mazda SUV and crossover lineup or our electrified Mazda models.
At Palm Springs Mazda, you can drive a Mazda3 Sedan, Mazda3 Hatchback and CX-30 back to back to feel the differences in seating position, cargo access and handling. We aim to keep the process simple, transparent and enjoyable, and you are welcome to relax in the exclusive, state-of-the-art Mazda Lounge upstairs while we prepare your test drive. Check current new Mazda specials, explore financing and lease options, and value your current vehicle with our Kelley Blue Book® Instant Cash Offer.
Our factory-trained service team keeps your Mazda running well in desert heat, and you can schedule service online anytime. Shopping on a tighter budget? Our pre-owned inventory and Mazda certified pre-owned vehicles often include the Mazda3 as well.
Both share the same engines and seat five. The Sedan has a 13.2 cubic-foot trunk and the highest fuel economy estimate, while the Hatchback offers a liftgate, 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space and the only available 6-speed manual in the Mazda3 lineup.
Yes. The front-wheel-drive Mazda3 Sedan 2.5 S earns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city, 36 highway and 30 combined, which makes it the most efficient gas-only model in Mazda’s current lineup. Actual mileage varies with driving habits and conditions.
Driving enjoyment is a core part of Mazda’s approach, and the Mazda3 delivers responsive steering and a well-balanced chassis. The available 2.5 Turbo adds up to 250 hp on premium fuel, and the Hatchback offers a 6-speed manual for drivers who want more involvement.
i-Activ AWD is standard on the Mazda3 Carbon Edition and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus in both body styles. Other Mazda3 trims are front-wheel drive. If you want AWD on every trim, the CX-30 includes it as standard.
Choose the Mazda3 if you want the lowest, sportiest driving position and the best fuel economy. Choose the CX-30 if you prefer a higher seat, standard AWD and more cargo room with the seats folded. Test-driving both on the same day is the quickest way to decide.
Mazda recommends premium fuel to get the full 250 hp and 320 lb-ft from the 2.5 Turbo. It can run on regular 87-octane fuel, with output rated at 227 hp and 310 lb-ft. The non-turbo Skyactiv-G 2.5 runs on regular fuel.
Your Mazda’s maintenance schedule depends on the model and how you drive, and the vehicle’s onboard maintenance monitor can remind you when service is due. Hot desert driving can be considered severe conditions, so ask our factory-trained service team for the right intervals for your car.
Buying usually suits drivers who keep their cars for many years, while leasing can fit drivers who like a newer vehicle every few years and drive predictable miles. Our finance team can walk you through both options so you can compare them side by side.
Palm Springs Mazda is proud to serve drivers from Cathedral City, Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, Thousand Palms, Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, Beaumont, Banning, and beyond.
Compare the Mazda3 Sedan, Mazda3 Hatchback and CX-30 with our team at 69200 E Palm Canyon Dr in Cathedral City.
69200 E Palm Canyon Dr
Cathedral City, CA 92234
Sales, Service & Parts: 760-328-2102
Body Shop: 760-699-6748
