Why The Mazda3 Hatchback is The Best 2024 Hatchback Available

In a class as competitive as the Hatchback segment, it’s hard to stand out. Today, we’ll compare three top-selling and top-rated hatchbacks on the market to see which makes the most sense for you. We’ll look at Toyota’s GR Corolla, Honda’s Civic Type R, and Mazda’s Mazda3 Hatchback. We’ll start our comparison with the starting MSRPs to see what it takes to get an entry-level model:

Right off the bat, we see significant variation in prices across the three models. The Corolla is over $10,000 more expensive than the Mazda3, while the Civic is nearly $20,000 more expensive! Do they offer enough features to justify the higher price tag? Let’s take a look. 

Hatchback Performance Comparison

Starting with the powertrains, we begin to see how Honda and Toyota justify the higher price tag. The Civic Type R features a turbo 2-cylinder that provides 315 horses and 310 lb-ft of torque. The GR Corolla’s turbo three nips at the Civic’s heels, offering 300 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The Mazda3 lags behind the pack in power but offers two powertrains to choose from. The first is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 191 hp, and the second is a turbocharged 2.5-liter that gets 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. It should be noted that the more powerful Mazda3 powertrain starts at $32,950. The Civic or Corolla should be your choice if you prioritize speed and power. If you’re looking for an excellent everyday commuter at a lower price point, the Mazda3 Hatchback is for you.

Hatchback Design & Storage Comparison

In keeping with their more powerful engines, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla and 2024 Honda Civic Type R adopts a more racing aesthetic. The Civic Type R’s spoiler, aggressive stance, and 19-inch wheels help it command attention on the road. The GR Corolla follows suit, offering 18-inch wheels, an aggressive stance, and a faux spoiler. The Mazda3 doesn’t lean into the racing aesthetic, instead opting for a more practical approach. You’ll find an elegant body supported by 18-inch wheels, but you won’t find the spirit of a street racer. The interior of the Mazda3 Hatchback also differs from the Civic and Corolla, offering a large, well-crafted four-dorr cabin with plenty of room for five. The Corolla and Civic also sport four-door cabins and seating for up to five but lean into the racing theme on the interior as well. Behind the rear row, each of the hatchbacks offers extra storage space. The Honda provides 24.5 cubic feet, the Mazda 20.1 cubic feet, and the Corolla 17.8 cubic feet. For those looking for flash and thrills, the Type R and GR Corolla still offer compelling value! Consumers looking to save on their purchases should still find plenty of value in the Mazda3 Hatchback.

Technology & Safety Differences

Each model features their brand’s suite of safety features. The Civic Type R has Honda Sensing, the GR Corolla has Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and the Mazda3 has I-Activsense Safety Technology. All have similar features like lane keeping, automatic braking, and pedestrian detection. Only the Mazda3 Hatchback has earned both the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and an NHTS five-star safety rating. While perhaps not as sporty as its counterparts, the Mazda3 emphasizes safety, making it the hatchback of choice for families and conscientious drivers. Visit Bob Moore Mazda, serving Edmond, Norman, and the Oklahoma City metro area, to test drive the 2024 Mazda3 Hatchback today.

Test Drive the 2024 Mazda3 Hatchback at Bob Moore Mazda Dealership

At the end of the day, the Honda Civic Type R, Toyota GR Corolla, and Mazda3 Hatchback are all worthy of earning the best hatchback in 2024 monicker. For speed and sporty demeanor, the Civic Type R wins the prize, but for an extra $20k. For those looking for hatchback versatility at a reasonable price, you aren’t going to beat the Mazda3 Hatchback. While there may be flashier, sportier cars, the Mazda3 offers incredible value for the practical consumer. Test drive the 2024 Mazda3 Hatchback for sale at Bob Moore Mazda today!