2021 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo AWD Test: Still Not the Car We Hoped For When Mazda announced the 2.5-liter turbocharged Skyactiv-G engine was coming to the 3, a lot of us had the same thought: Mazdaspeed!

Despite being the base engine, this 2.5-liter hustles the Mazda 3 from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, proving that even entry-level performance can be plenty spirited.

The Mazda 3 is loads of fun to drive, particularly when you switch it into Sport mode. Acceleration is quick thanks to a 2.5-liter, turbocharged engine rated at 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet ...

By adding all-wheel drive. The standard Mazda 3 that we drove a month ago was a FWD car, but for the snowy states Mazda has added its own i-Activ AWD system.

You know, the cars Mazda says the 3 Turbo isn't meant to compete with. Suspension tuning concerns aside, this is a great car, and a credible alternative to the entry-level German models.

Japan's finest compact hatchbacks go head-to-head! See how the premium-feeling Mazda 3 Hatchback stacks up against the reliable and efficient Toyota Corolla Hatchback to find your ideal ride.