Smooth, cool, slick – pick your adjective.
Any of these three words apply to the new 2019 Mazda3 Sedan with optional all-wheel-drive, a mass-market compact car that comes audaciously close to matching luxury models such as the Audi 3 or Mercedes-Benz A-class in quality and performance.
FAST FACTS
* Model: Mazda3 Sedan AWD Premium* Exterior color: Soul Red Crystal Metallic* Interior color: White* Engine: 2.5-liter, four-cylinder* Horsepower: 186 horsepower* Transmission: six-speed automatic* Fuel economy: 33 mpg highway, 25 mpg city* Local Dealer: Tim Short Mazda* Price (as tested): $30,840
The real news here is the first-ever all-wheel-drive option, which makes the Mazda3 one of the few compact cars with the performance-enhancing feature. For those who live at altitude or in snowy climates (and who don’t fancy SUVs), the Mazda3 with all-season or snow tires may be the best small-car option this side of a Subaru store.
All-wheel-drive is the cherry on top of an already tasty ride. The Mazda3 epitomizes the Japanese brand’s light-weight, nimble-handling, pleasantly styled automobiles. Mazda leaders say their guiding light is the maxim: “addition by subtraction.” In a complicated world, this is a comfort.