2027 Mazda3 Adds Manual Hatchback at $31,950 in US Market

Mazda's 2027 Mazda3 goes on sale in the United States with a single manual-equipped trim, a notable detail in a year when several rivals have pared back stick-shift options. According to Mircea Panait's report published 3 November 2026, the only manual offering is the front-wheel-drive 2.5 S Premium Plus 6MT hatchback.

The only manual 2027 Mazda3 is the front-wheel-drive 2.5 S Premium Plus 6MT hatchback, priced at $31,950 before destination. That price does not include the destination charge, which adds $1,315 to the final cost.

The 2.5 S Premium Plus 6MT FWD sits between the 2.5 S Preferred AWD, listed at $29,990 at launch, and the 2.5 S Premium Plus, which is $33,350 before destination and options. The range-topping 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is priced at $38,190 for the hatchback or $37,040 for the sedan, both figures before destination. All other grades, whether hatchback or sedan, are offered with a six-speed automatic transmission.

With Volkswagen discontinuing the manual in the Jetta GLI and Honda pausing Civic Si production in 2026, Mazda's decision to keep a three-pedal Mazda3 is unusual. The catch is clear: if you want a manual you must choose the hatchback and accept front-wheel drive.

Equipment and powertrains

The manual-equipped model is powered by Mazda's 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline four making 186 horsepower on 87-octane regular unleaded. The Premium Plus grade dresses the manual hatchback for daily use with LED headlights and taillights, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a heated steering wheel, the Active Driving Display, and adaptive front lighting that swivels through corners.

The 2.5 S sedan with the six-speed automatic is priced at $24,750 for 2027, presenting a more economical choice. There are also lower-cost alternatives in the segment, such as the Kia K4 K4 trim priced at $22,390; Kia says its 2027 K4 brings a fresher design and claims segment-leading rear-seat legroom.

Preferred-spec features aim at comfort and convenience. The Preferred hatchback starts at $28,040 in the US and adds an eight-way power driver seat with memory, heated front seats, a power moonroof, wireless phone charging, and a passenger-side mirror that tilts down when reversing. All-wheel drive is available on the Preferred hatchback from $29,990, or $31,305 after destination.

The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus with all-wheel drive is quoted at up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque when fueled with 93-octane premium gasoline, which Mazda lists as 434 Newton-meters. Using 87-octane regular reduces the numbers to 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet, or about 420 Newton-meters. Mazda notes the turbocharged engine is not available with the six-speed manual.

For 2027, Mazda has also concentrated changes on everyday equipment. Cordless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard from the Select Sport trim upward, joining Alexa built-in, 18-inch black alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, leatherette upholstery, and rain-sensing wipers. Preferred adds Qi wireless charging and additional comfort features.