Mazda3 Saloon review - Interior & comfort
"A stylish, well built interior plus comfortable suspension means the Mazda3 Saloon feels luxurious"
The Mazda3 Saloon is a lot like the standard Mazda3 hatchback on the inside. It's basically identical, in fact, boasting the same high-end feel and abundance of pleasing finishes. All of the controls feel very robust and satisfying to use.
As with the hatchback version of the car, ride quality is brilliant. Bumpy roads are ironed out and even rough surfaces are made comfortable for driver and passengers alike. This doesn't detract from the handling at all, which is one of the main selling points of this car – enthusiastic drivers will appreciate its responsive feel.
Mazda3 Saloon dashboard
The Mazda3 has an understated, stylish dashboard that has been cleverly designed to make the driver's life easier. All controls are within easy reach, from the electric window buttons on the door handles to the slim-screened 8.8-inch infotainment system in the centre of the car. The door handles are mounted further forward than in most cars, but this too is practical – you can reach to open the door without twisting too much.
Equipment
The Mazda3 Saloon was originally available in a range of trim levels, but as of late 2024, these have been reduced to just one: Exclusive-Line. This model gets 18-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, a premium Bose sound system, front and rear parking sensors, tinted glass, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a tilt and slide sunroof, blind-spot monitoring, driver attention alert, lane-keep assist and departure warning, a reversing camera, 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, wireless smartphone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
While this is a good level of equipment for the price, it’s a shame there isn’t as much choice as that offered in the hatchback, which can be specified with leather or leather-look upholstery and a range of other more premium features.
GT Sport offers all the above, but adds leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, auto emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. Top-spec GT Sport Tech includes extra safety equipment like cross-traffic alerts and a 360-degree camera for easy manoeuvring.
