On the face of things, it can seem a little complicated at first when you’re trying to decide which version of the Mazda 3 is the right one for you. If you remember how the Mazda 3 used to be configured or how it is across the border in the U.S., you might expect it to now be the 2018 Mazda 3 Sport, 2018 Mazda 3 Touring and 2018 Mazda 3 Grand Touring. However, here in Canada the range is split into the Mazda 3 which is the sedan and the Mazda 3 Sport that’s the hatch, and then they both have trim levels of GS, GX, 50 and GT. Here’s a look at them in a little more detail.
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Mazda 3 and Mazda 3 Sport GX
The GX is the entry level trim to the Mazda 3 family and it comes standard with the Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that puts out 155 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque. Standard features on the outside include: body coloured mirrors, door handles and a rear roof spoiler. On the inside there’s Mazda Connect infotainment with a seven-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth phone connectivity, steering-wheel mounted Bluetooth and audio controls, HD radio, USB and auxiliary audio inputs, SMS text message audio delivery and reply, air conditioning, push-button start and keyless entry. The GX is available with a choice between a six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission.
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Mazda 3 and Mazda 3 Sport GS
The GS is the next level up and gets the same engine and transmission options. A glass roof is an available option that can’t be had with a GX, as is the iActivsense Pack that includes the likes of LED headlights and tail lights. Standard features add to the GX trim with heated door mirrors with integrated side turn signals, rain-sensing wipers, a heated steering wheel and premium cloth upholstery. The GS also gets you advanced safety features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
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Mazda 3 and Mazda 3 Sport 50
It’s a $2,600 uplift to get to the 50 trim level, although the 2.0-litre engine and six-speed transmissions are still standard. The majority of extra features are found inside the cabin though, such as an AM/FM radio and CD player with MP3 functionality, a nine-speaker premium Bose audio system, automatic climate control, advanced keyless entry (proximity and ignition) and leather upholstery.
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Mazda 3 and Mazda 3 Sport GT
Only a small increase in price gets you into the top GT trim level, and straight from the off it comes with the more powerful 2.5-litre engine that boasts 184 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque. Once again, there’s a choice between a six-speed manual and this time a more advanced automatic transmission. Other notable upgrades include 18-inch alloys wheels instead of 16-inch examples, a standard moonroof, advanced automatic LED lights all around, dual zone climate control, and remote keyless entry with trunk release.
To find out more about the Mazda 3 trim levels and the pricing and availability of the entire 2018 Mazda 3 range, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today here at Moffatt’s Mazda.
