Outside of the new power choices, the Mazda 3 5-door sedan has some other new items. The instrument panel lighting is different, and the displays are in an easy to read blue color. The airdams have also be fixed, there are more body trims and there is a reduced front look that doesn't look too odd. The cockpit is nice but the hard plastic is an issue to some.
The hatchback and sedan versions of the Mazda 3 both have the same interior designs that are highlighted by a series of stylish instruments along with some comfortable surfaces. A 3-zone philosophy for the items places all the key controls in a way that helps to get the to driver focus on the road as the key controls are being managed. The great thing that that Mazda has done with the vehicles instruments and dash is to keep things managed well. However, the HVAC and audio screen is not well laid out and has way too many functions stuck in a small spot. The optional navigation device is tough to manage, but that probably won't be an issue for navigational needs. S trim choices have an adjustable steering wheel with a series of controls to use for audio and navigation controls and Bluetooth access. There is also an optional Bose audio system that sounds fantastic. The Mazdaspeed3 will go along with some bolstered front seats and even an LED turbo gauge.
When compared to others, the inside isn't too strong but it is still a popula vehicle. It has soft surfaces as the Grand Touring models had plenty of special features. Some find the controls to be a challenge though. The small stereo screen and its wheel-mounted buttons are tough to handle even though they are cheap.
The Mazda 3 5-door sedan is also not as roomy and can be a challenge to manage. The available adjustable power driver seat helps but the sunroof that is optional will not work well. The hatchback is the best bit because it uses all the big things in a sedan but is more practical. The luggage capacity (as the rear seats are up will be 17 cubic feet, a number better than the 11.8 in a sedan.
The 2012 Mazda 3 has a better looking grille and has a four door or five door build. The sedan is four doors adn the hatchback is five doors. The SkyActiv 2.0L package works well on the road with great transmissions and controls and even gets 40 mpg highway.