By Brian Normile
Related: 2021 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo: Low-Key Looks, High-Power Fun
For 2020, the most expensive Mazda3 to start was roughly $28,000 for the sedan version and $29,000 for a hatchback, and we did expect the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo to be, well, more than that. We were right, as the turbo sedan will start at $30,845, while the hatchback version costs an extra grand at $31,845 (all prices include a $945 destination fee). Premium Plus versions of both cost even more: $33,395 for the sedan and $34,695 for the hatch.
If you’d like to turn your Mazda3 2.5 Turbo into a slightly less subtle performance vehicle, Mazda will throw on black 18-inch BBS-brand wheels for an extra $918.95 per wheel. Hot-hatch enthusiasts can also add an aero kit to the hatchback for either $1,075 with the Premium Plus Package (which already includes a rear spoiler and front air dam) or $1,900 without it.
That isn’t to say that the 2.5 Turbo isn’t worth such a premium compared to the more affordable Mazda3s. We haven’t driven it yet, actually, so we can’t even tell you if we like it, but it does demonstrate the diversity of the Mazda3 range.
The 2.5 Turbo’s pricing puts it more in line with other performance-oriented cars, however. The FWD-only 2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI hatchback starts at $29,515 and can range up to more than $37,000 for the premium Autobahn trim. Sedan enthusiasts might consider the 2020 Subaru WRX’s 268 hp and standard AWD, priced from $28,395 up to $32,995. Both of those rivals offer manual transmissions, as well, unlike the Mazda. The manual-only 2020 Honda Civic Si is less powerful but also more affordable, with a maximum price just north of $26,000, with or without optional summer performance tires.