2024 Mazda 3 boasts 36-hp power bump, new bespoke trim

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Did you know Mazda is now one of the few mainstream automakers to still offer a manual gearbox? What better way, then, to run through the company’s 2024-model-year changes to its Canadian-market Mazda 3 (sedan) and Mazda 3 Sport (hatchback) lineup than in a manual-based breakdown?

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First Gear: Base power bump

Yes, the base GX trim of the 3 dumps the 2.0L four-pot engine with 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque in favour of the automaker’s 2.5L four-pot, with 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. That means output is up by 36 units in both metrics! Now, there are only two engine options in the lineup: the aforementioned 2.5L, in the GX, GS, and GT; and the wickedly powerful 2.5 Turbo. But, hey, streamlining for the win! (Plus that 2.0L was way underpowered—)

Second Gear: New Suna Edition

This new special trim will be the most expensive Mazda 3 Sport (hatchback) for 2024, with an MSRP of $38,900—$750 more than the GT Turbo. It’ll have a Zircon Sand Metallic (beige) exterior; 18-inch black metallic finish wheels; gloss black door mirrors; and a black-terracotta interior with matching stitching.

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Third Gear: Added safety

Two key updates, here. First, Mazda’s Automatic Emergency Breaking feature has been updated across the board for 2024 to enhance night-time performance. Secondly, rear side airbags have been added to all models. Good work, Mazda, seeing as the 3 is already an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

Fourth Gear: Cool connections

The GT trim for 2024 will now come standard with wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto, plus two Type-C USB ports. Also, the GS Luxury Package brings a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with part-time touchscreen functionality when paired to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Reverse

Despite my pleas to bring back the MazdaSpeed 3, the performance variant is simply not going to happen. But if Subaru can rock a manual with all-wheel-drive, maybe Mazda can manual-ize its GT Turbo trim—

This new crop of 2024 Mazda 3s will hit Canadian showrooms this summer.