If you’ve taken a Mazda 3 from your local Mazda dealer on a test drive and thought it could use a little more pick-up, you’re in luck. The base 2.0-liter engine will no longer be offered on this classy sedan. Instead, 2023 Mazda vehicles are moving towards the new Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for its base powertrain option. The 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four is still available on higher-level trims.

Read on to learn why Mazda made the jump to a bigger base-level engine.

Natural Aspiration Provides More Power

A naturally aspirated model’s most noticeable perk is a higher horsepower output. The previous version of this powertrain only produced 186 hp, and the new version throws up 191 hp. While an extra five hp may not seem like a lot, it creates a noticeable difference in how the Mazda 3 responds to your commands.

Increased Fuel Efficiency

The other significant benefit of the preferred 2.5-liter engine is fuel economy. The general rule of thumb is that a smaller engine will achieve better fuel economy numbers. The new Skyactiv-G engine seemingly defies physics. Even though this is a larger engine, it offers the same kind of numbers the previous 2.0-liter engine provided.

Your favorite Mazda dealer will brag about the Mazda’s fuel ratings with good reason. The new version of this popular car earned an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. That is an extra mile per gallon on the highway compared to the discontinued powertrain.

Less Road Noise

While some drivers are excited about the available 191 hp on a base-level sedan (with regular 87 octane fuel), others are focusing on how quiet Skyactiv-G motors run. Less road noise means higher quality music and conversations during your commute.

With More Power Comes a Higher Price

Dropping the older 2.0 engine for a more robust and efficient option may feel like a gift, but it comes with a bit of a price raise. The FWD sedan version of the Mazda 3 will see a $450 price jump, making this ride starts at $23,615, and Hatchback models throw another $1,000 on the price. An extra $450 seems like a drop in the bucket, considering the fuel savings and extra pick-up you’ll get on every drive.

Shoppers will find slightly higher prices on all Mazda 3 models for sale at their local Mazda dealer locations. Most models, like the Select, Preferred, and Carbon Edition, only see a price hike between $450 and $550. However, the Premium and Premium Plus models will cost an
additional $1,700. Of course, the Premium Plus comes with Mazda’s infamous 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. This rig starts at $34,000 for the sedan; $35,300 for the hatchback.

See It in Action in the 2023 Mazda Vehicles

If you’re curious about how the move towards the 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine looks, feels, and sounds, stop by your local Mazda dealer for a test drive. Make sure to call ahead, as everyone will be looking to take this ride for a spin.