Mazda has always aimed higher than its status.

While not officially a competitor in the luxury class, it has long designed its vehicles to look and perform at a level that will make people think of Mazda as a luxury-level purchase, even if the price is lower.

That applies to their smallest vehicles too, including the 2023 Mazda3, which is available as both a sedan and a hatchback.

There have been some updates to the engine lineup for 2023 to further improve drive quality, more tech features are standard, and there is an attractive new trim level offered called Carbon Edition — which I was recently able to test.

When you’re going against major players like the Honda Civic, Volkswagen Jetta, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Nissan Sentra and more, you have to come strong.

And to put it simply, Mazda’s compact sedan and hatchback options continue to deliver performance over and above their competition, while also maintaining a distinct looks advantage.

As someone who loves to drive, I’ve never truly understood why the sales charts are the way they are when it comes to nonluxury family sedans.

Far too often, vehicles that are actually fun to drive are left behind by the sedan buyer in favor of more humdrum experiences behind the wheel.

Whatever the reason, I’m happy to report that for people who are focused on stronger performance from their sedan, options still exist. 

One such option is the 2021 Mazda6, a sedan that both looks sharp and drives impressively. I recently spent some time in a Mazda6 and I’m back with a full report.