Mazda’s reputation for blending engaging driving dynamics with thoughtful design has never been clearer than in one specific 2026 trim that bridges two worlds many drivers assume must be separate. The 2.5 S Premium version pairs a true enthusiast’s feature, a six-speed manual transmission, with a cabin that feels plush and refined, offering luxury-leaning touches you rarely see in cars at this price.
What makes this trim so compelling is how naturally it balances engagement and everyday comfort. The manual gearbox gives drivers direct control and connection, something increasingly rare in compact cars, while the interior surrounds you with high-grade materials, supportive seats, and tech that elevates the daily drive. It’s a car that feels as rewarding on twisty back roads as it does on your commute, without making you sacrifice comfort for fun.
For buyers who want a sporty experience and a comfortable, well-appointed cabin, this Mazda 3 trim delivers both, proving that driving enjoyment and refinement can coexist in one complete package.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA.
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The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Premium is one of the best value compact cars out there
Plush without breaking the bank
If you value an upscale experience but you don’t have the budget to shop for something with a traditional luxury badge, we think that Mazda is one of the best options out there. In terms of looks, the Mazda 3 already outshines most things in its segment. The closer you look, the better things get, with the small compact car loaded with high-end features and an enthusiast-focused feature that some much more expensive sports cars forgo.
Why the 2.5 S Premium trim
Credit: Mazda
Some people would assume that if you’re looking for a sporty Mazda 3, you should opt for the turbocharged engine. However, there is a good reason to stick with the non-turbo Premium model.
Mazda’s compact car is built to be fun, offering engagement that no other car at this price point can match. Something that takes this engagement a step further is the fact that the 2.5 S Premium trim comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission. Not everyone will see the appeal of rowing their own gears, but enthusiasts know that there is no better way to enjoy a perky little car than with a six-speed.
How much is it?
Model
Starting MSRP
2.5 S Premium
$31,450
The Mazda 3 has a pretty reasonable starting price of $25,550, putting it on the more affordable side of the segment. The 2.5 S Premium is the highest trim level you get without opting for the turbocharged models. The turbo models are great, but they all only offer the six-speed automatic transmission.
This trim justifies its higher price tag quite easily. Along with its more enthusiast-focused setup, it comes with a ton of plush features that you’d expect from a luxury brand rather than a mainstream one. It is worth noting, though, that while the Mazda 3 can be had as a sedan or a hatchback, this trim is only offered in the hatchback body style.
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Mazda’s compact hatchback is exceptionally fun to drive
It has no rivals at this price point
Credit: Mazda
If you’re on a budget and shopping in the compact segment, chances are that you have already resigned yourself to getting something a little mundane. The Mazda 3 proves that affordable cars don’t have to be boring. The non-turbocharged model may not be the quickest off the line, but it delivers levels of engagement that far surpasses its rivals.
Mazda 3 2.5 S Premium performance
Engine
2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four
Transmission
6-speed manual
Horsepower
186 HP
Torque
186 LB-FT
Driveline
FWD
0-60 MPH
7 seconds
Top Speed
125 MPH
Under the hood sits a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-pot. In most trims, this engine pairs with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, but the 2.5 S Premium only comes equipped with the manual. All-wheel drive isn’t an option on this trim level.
In today’s world, filled with super quick electric cars, a seven second zero to 60 time isn’t all that quick. However, if you aren’t obsessed with spec sheets, you’ll know it’s plenty quick enough for a car to feel fun. Even more important than acceleration is how well a car handles, and this is where the Mazda 3 really excels. It is responsive, agile, and features steering that feels impressively natural. Combine this with the slick and satisfying six-speed manual, and you have a recipe for success.
If you’re not all that concerned with having the six-speed manual, the turbocharged models are quite a bit faster. They make 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque and are capable of getting up to 60 miles per hour in as little as 5.6 seconds.
Fuel economy
Model
City
Highway
Combined
2.5 S Premium
25 MPG
34 MPG
28 MPG
While the Mazda 3 isn’t the most efficient car in its segment, we feel that the trade-off of better performance is well worth the few miles per gallon you miss out on. Models equipped with the automatic transmission are slightly more efficient, but the margin is near negligble.
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The 2.5 S Premium feels like an affordable luxury car
Built to rival Lexus rather than Toyota
Credit: Mazda
We feel like if you are looking for an upscale experience at a mainstream price, there is no better choice right now than Mazda. Their build quality is excellent and the interior design of the vehicles is top class. The Mazda 3 is the perfect demonstration of this. The 2.5 S Premium trim also adds a ton of high-end features that make the hatchback feel like it is a real rival to affordable luxury cars like the Lexus IS or the Acura Integra.
2026 Mazda 3 interior dimensions and comfort
Front row headroom
38 inches
Front row legroom
42.3 inches
Second row headroom
36.5 inches
Second row Legroom
35.1 inches
Cargo capacity
20.1 feet
In the compact segment, there are a few options that offer a little more space on the inside than the Mazda 3. While the front seats are comfortable, anyone relegated to the back seats is going to feel somewhat cramped. Cargo capacity is pretty generous for a car in this segment, though, with the hatch offering enough space for a big grocery haul or a couple of weekend bags.
When it comes to the overall feel of the cabin, the Mazda 3 stands leagues above its rivals. It is incredibly attractive on the inside and every surface is covered in high-quality materials. The 2.5 S Premium trim kicks things up a notch with super desirable features, including dual-zone automatic climate control, well-bolstered leather sports seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with a memory function, and heating in the front row.
Infotainment and technology
Mazda’s take on screen layouts in the Mazda 3 is excellent. While most models come with an eight-inch infotainment screen, the S Premium model gets a 10.3-inch unit instead. It sits on top of the dashboard, slightly slanted towards the driver, following the flow of the dashboard. This system comes standard with wireless capability for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Every model comes with two USB-C ports up front, but this top trim also features a wireless smartphone charging pad. Alex is also built-in to the system, integrating with your at home setup. While most models come with a reasonable eight-speaker sound system, but the Premium model gets a 12-speaker Bose system instead.
