Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a review of the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport. If you're in the market for a compact car that blends style, performance, and practicality, then you've probably already considered the Mazda 3. But does the 2016 model still hold up in today's competitive landscape? Let's find out!

Overview of the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport

The Mazda 3 has always been a favorite among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Known for its sleek design and engaging driving dynamics, it's a car that manages to be both fun and functional. The 2016 Mazda 3 Sport, in particular, aims to deliver a sporty experience without sacrificing fuel efficiency or comfort. It's a compact car that doesn't feel compact when you're behind the wheel, offering a surprising amount of interior space and a host of features that make it a great daily driver.

From the outside, the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport boasts Mazda's KODO “Soul of Motion” design language, which gives it a dynamic and sophisticated look. The flowing lines and aggressive stance make it stand out from the crowd. Inside, you'll find a well-designed cabin with quality materials and a driver-focused layout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. Plus, the infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, which is always a big plus.

Under the hood, the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport typically comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a good balance of power and fuel economy. It's not the fastest car on the road, but it's definitely peppy enough for most driving situations. The handling is sharp and responsive, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. And with its relatively compact size, it's easy to maneuver in tight city streets and parking spaces.

Overall, the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport is a well-rounded package that offers a lot of value for the money. But let's get into the specifics to see if it's the right car for you.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport doesn't disappoint. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces around 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might not sound earth-shattering, the Mazda 3 Sport feels surprisingly quick and responsive on the road. The engine is eager to rev, and the car's lightweight construction helps it accelerate with ease. Whether you're merging onto the highway or zipping through city traffic, the Mazda 3 Sport has enough power to get the job done.

One of the standout features of the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport is its handling. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback from the road. The suspension is firm enough to keep the car planted in corners, but not so stiff that it becomes uncomfortable on rough roads. This balance of agility and comfort makes the Mazda 3 Sport a joy to drive in a variety of conditions.

The car's Sport mode sharpens the throttle response and adjusts the transmission's shift points, making it even more engaging to drive. While it's not a sports car by any means, the Mazda 3 Sport offers a level of driving enjoyment that's rare in the compact car segment. It's a car that encourages you to take the long way home, just for the fun of it.

Another factor that contributes to the Mazda 3 Sport's excellent handling is its G-Vectoring Control (GVC) system. This technology subtly adjusts engine torque in response to steering inputs, which helps to smooth out weight transfer and improve stability. The result is a more confident and controlled driving experience, especially on winding roads or in slippery conditions. Most drivers won't even notice GVC working, but they'll definitely appreciate the improved handling and stability.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport, you'll be greeted by a well-designed and thoughtfully laid-out cabin. The materials are of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive trim pieces. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. And the driver-focused design puts all the essential controls within easy reach.

The infotainment system is one of the highlights of the interior. It features a user-friendly interface, a responsive touchscreen display, and a rotary control knob on the center console. This combination of touch and physical controls makes it easy to navigate the system while driving. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music and make hands-free phone calls.

Depending on the trim level, the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport may also come with features like a rearview camera, a blind-spot monitoring system, and rear cross-traffic alert. These safety features can help to improve your awareness of your surroundings and make driving safer and more convenient.

The 2016 Mazda 3 Sport also offers a decent amount of cargo space for a compact car. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more room for larger items. And with its hatchback design, the Mazda 3 Sport offers more versatility than a traditional sedan. You can easily load and unload bulky items, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

One potential downside of the interior is the rear seat legroom, which can be a bit tight for taller passengers. However, for most people, the rear seats are comfortable enough for short to medium-length trips. And with its overall combination of comfort, features, and practicality, the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport is a great choice for anyone looking for a well-rounded compact car.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport delivers respectable numbers in this area. With its efficient four-cylinder engine and lightweight design, the Mazda 3 Sport can achieve up to 29 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive with other compact cars in its class, making it a great choice for those who want to save money at the pump.

Of course, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and the conditions in which you drive. If you spend most of your time driving in stop-and-go traffic, you're likely to see lower fuel economy numbers. And if you have a heavy foot on the accelerator, you'll also use more gas. However, with a little bit of effort, you can easily achieve the EPA-estimated fuel economy numbers.

The Mazda 3 Sport's fuel-efficient engine is just one of the many reasons why it's such a popular choice among car buyers. It's a car that's fun to drive, comfortable, and practical, all while being relatively easy on the wallet. And with its excellent fuel economy, it's a car that you can feel good about driving every day.

Potential Issues and Reliability

While the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport is generally considered to be a reliable car, there are a few potential issues that you should be aware of. Some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system, such as glitches, freezing, and connectivity issues. Others have reported issues with the car's paint, which can be prone to chipping and scratching.

It's important to note that these issues are not widespread, and many owners have had no problems with their 2016 Mazda 3 Sports. However, it's always a good idea to do your research and be aware of any potential issues before buying a used car. You can check online forums and owner reviews to see if other owners have reported any problems with their Mazda 3 Sports.

Overall, the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport is a reliable car that offers a great combination of performance, features, and fuel economy. With proper maintenance and care, it should provide you with many years of trouble-free driving.

Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport Still a Good Choice?

So, after taking a comprehensive look at the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport, the question remains: is it still a good choice in today's market? The answer is a resounding yes! The Mazda 3 Sport continues to impress with its blend of stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and practical features. While it may have a few minor shortcomings, its overall strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

If you're looking for a compact car that's fun to drive, comfortable, and fuel-efficient, the 2016 Mazda 3 Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a car that can handle daily commutes, weekend road trips, and everything in between. And with its affordable price point, it offers a lot of value for the money.

Of course, it's always a good idea to test drive a few different cars before making a final decision. But if you're looking for a compact car that's a cut above the rest, the Mazda 3 Sport should definitely be on your list.