“This is my second Mazda 3 I've been very happy with the performance very good gas mileage no problems with the engine service has been excellent”
2016 Mazda MAZDA3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Mazda3 is a standard rearview camera on every trim. This is otherwise a light equipment and trim-lineup update, not a redesign.
About the 2016 Mazda MAZDA3
3rd generation (2014-2018), packaging update year before the 2017 refresh.
Mazda positions the Mazda3 as a compact car that feels more engaging and more polished than the usual economy-focused competition. In Mazda’s own materials, the emphasis is on sharp handling, strong fuel economy, distinctive styling, and an interior and tech layout that feel a step above many mainstream compact sedans and hatchbacks. For most buyers, it is the practical everyday small car for people who still care how the car looks and feels to drive.
The i Sport is the straightforward entry model, with a 155-hp 2.0-liter engine, a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and push-button start. The i Grand Touring adds features such as navigation, Bose audio, and heated seats, while the s models use a stronger 184-hp 2.5-liter engine. At the top, the s Grand Touring has leather seating, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, and a pop-up driving display.
What changed, by category
Trim lineup
The base i SV trim was dropped, making i Sport the entry point for 2016.
Safety
A rearview camera became standard on every trim. Touring and Grand Touring models also gained standard automatic headlights and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Tech and convenience
The i Touring's power moonroof changed from optional to standard. It also gained illuminated vanity mirrors and an overhead sunglasses holder, while i Grand Touring and s Touring gained a standard auto-dimming rearview mirror.
2016 Mazda MAZDA3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.0L | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.0L | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.5L | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.0L | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, 2.5L |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drv / Manual, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-MT | Manual, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-MT / Auto, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drv | Auto, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drv | Auto, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drv | Auto, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drv |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 27–28 mpg | 30 mpg | 27–28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 40–41 mpg | 40–41 mpg | 37–39 mpg | 40–41 mpg | 37–39 mpg |
| Horsepower | 155 hp | 155 hp | 184 hp | 155 hp | 184 hp |
| Torque | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 185 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 185 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.4–47.1 cu-ft | 12.4–47.1 cu-ft | 12.4–47.1 cu-ft | 12.4–47.1 cu-ft | 12.4–47.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.8 in | 35.8 in | 35.8 in | 35.8 in | 35.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | |||||
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic Headlights | |||||
| Automatic High Beams | |||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | |||||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| HID Headlights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | |||||
| LED Tail Lights | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Head-Up Display | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Driver Seat | |||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Mazda3?
The biggest change is that every 2016 Mazda3 has a standard rearview camera. Touring and Grand Touring versions also received more standard convenience equipment.
Is the 2016 Mazda3 a redesign?
No, the 2016 Mazda3 is not a redesign. It remains part of the third generation introduced for 2014, with the same basic body and engines; the updates focus on trim packaging and standard equipment.
Which 2016 Mazda3 trims gained more standard equipment?
The i Touring, i Grand Touring, and s Touring gained notable standard equipment. The i Touring added a standard moonroof, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers, while i Grand Touring and s Touring added automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Was a Mazda3 trim dropped for 2016?
Yes, the base i SV trim was dropped for 2016. The i Sport became the entry point in the Mazda3 lineup.
Did the Mazda3 engines change for 2016?
No, the Mazda3's core engines carried over for 2016. The i trims use a 155-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the s trims use a 184-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder.
2016 Mazda MAZDA3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Mazda MAZDA3.
4.2
2016 Mazda MAZDA3
(462 reviews)
“The vehicle is fun to drive and somewhat sporty. The engine is nice and powerful when needed. The Seats are comfortable and the interior is overall nicely laid out. The door handle buttons for lock/unlock and the window switches are not illuminated which is really challenging to use in the dark. And there is no Apple CarPlay integrated into the sound system.”
“I purchased this car for my wife. She loves her Mazda. This is the 4th new Mazda she had since we married about 29 years ago. Reliable car she feels safe in these cars.”
Sources
- news.mazdausa.com — 2016 Mazda3 Fact Sheet
- news.mazdausa.com — 2015 08 06 2016 Mazda Lineup
- mazdausa.com — 2016 / 2016 Mazda3 5 Door / 2016 Mazda3 4Dr Brochure
- news.mazdausa.com — 2016 Mazda3 Spec Deck
- news.mazdausa.com — Vehicles 2015 Mazda3
- news.mazdausa.com — 2015 Mazda3 Specifications
- news.mazdausa.com — 2016 08 09 2017 Mazda3 Raises the Standard With G Vectoring Control Refined Performance
- news.mazdausa.com — 2016 09 19 Compact Car Large Scale Updates 2017 Mazda3