On the hunt for a compact car that punches above its weight class with sleek styling, athletic handling, and near-luxury appointments? The 2024 Mazda3 delivers driving verve and upscale accommodations that rival premium brand offerings, all at a friendly price point. Available as a sedan or hatchback, the latest Mazda3 remains one of the most enjoyable ways to scoot around Las Cruces from San Ysidro to University Park.

What’s New for 2024 on the Mazda3?

Mazda adds a special Carbon Edition exclusively for the Turbo hatchback this year. It brings a stylish look via bronze paint, gloss black accents, and terracotta leather inside. Elsewhere in the lineup, a larger 10.3-inch infotainment display newly available, but only on Turbo trims. Otherwise, the 2024 Mazda3 carries over with athletic moves and rich interior materials that belie its affordable compact status.

2024 Mazda3 Sport Power & Performance

The Mazda3 offers two proven engine choices under the hood:

- 2.5L 4-cylinder putting out 191 horsepower, connected to either a 6-speed manual (fwd models) or a 6-speed automatic

- Optional turbo 2.5L 4-cylinder generating a brawny 250 horsepower, paired solely to the automatic

That muscular turbo engine provides a thrill when jumping on the throttle to merge onto I-10 west or when overtaking slower traffic on US70 east. The standard engine pulls authoritatively off the line but runs out of steam at higher speeds. Either powertrain returns crisp steering and composed handling - a signature of Mazda vehicles. Opting for all-wheel drive further enhances grip and control when navigating slippery streets.

EPA ratings check in at 28 mpg city/37 highway for the base sedan with FWD, which makes it not only fun to drive but also a long-term value at the local Circle K. The turbo hatchback sees estimates of 23/31 mpg.

2024 Mazda3 Interior & Technology

The Mazda3 cabin punches way above its weight with premium materials and workmanship usually found in pricier compact vehicles. Plush leather, aluminum trim and soft-touch surfaces adorn higher trims to truly elevate the experience. The sedan bests the hatchback for rear visibility, but both body styles cater to the driver with perfectly positioned controls and supportive front seats.

Lively screens perch atop the dashboard on all models, starting at 8.8 inches. Turbo variants level up to a 10.3-inch display with snappy response. The console-mounted controller quickly accesses audio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, and available navigation. Upgraded Bose audio takes sound quality to new heights while you’re commuting or just picking up lunch at La Nueva Casita Café.

2024 Mazda3 Safety

The latest Mazda3 sees added protection from newly standard traffic jam assistance, plus blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert on certain trims. Of course, it also inherits the brand’s i-Activsense suite of advanced safety technologies, including lane-keeping assist, smart brake support, and pedestrian detection functions. Mazda engineers the Mazda3 to meet high crashworthiness targets as well.

Why Choose the Mazda3? See for Yourself at Casa Mazda Las Cruces

This sharp-handling compact punches way above its weight with a premium vibe and driving joy usually reserved for pricier competitors. Value meets verve in the 2024 Mazda3 - the total package for compact car enthusiasts. Schedule your test drive at Casa Mazda Las Cruces today. Here for You, Home of the Nice Guys!