The Mazda3, which has been on sale in North America for more than 7 years, saw sales surge in September 2026. September sales totaled 3,704 units, approximately 2.5 times the year-earlier figure, while the CX-30 sold 3,706 units, leaving virtually no gap between the two.
Mazda3 sales in North America totaled 3,704 units in September, up 146.9% from 1,500 units a year earlier, or approximately 2.5 times as many. The CX-30 sold 3,706 units, putting the two models on virtually equal footing, but the Mazda3's growth stands out. Sales have continued to run above the previous year's level since the summer, and the January–September total reached 32,486 units, up 42.3% year on year.
The CX-30, meanwhile, sold 3,706 units in September, up 13.3% year on year, but its January–September total fell 27.1% to 34,386 units. The CX-30 remains ahead on a cumulative basis, but there is a clear difference in growth rates.
In terms of pricing and specifications, the 2026 Mazda3 is priced from $24,650 in the US, compared with $26,375 for the CX-30, a difference of approximately ¥260,000. The CX-30 comes with all-wheel drive as standard on more grades, while the Mazda3 offers a high-performance grade with a 2.5-liter turbo engine in addition to the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, as well as a 6-speed manual transmission. Its driving performance and interior quality are cited as key features.
Against the backdrop of continued SUV popularity in the US market, the price and product differences may be influencing purchasing decisions. Vehicle characteristics, rather than simple price competition alone, may be driving consumers to choose between the models.