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If you're shopping for a compact car and keep coming back to the Mazda3 Hatchback vs. Honda Civic comparison, you're not alone. Both vehicles are well-regarded, but they appeal to different kinds of drivers. This breakdown can help you figure out which one fits your lifestyle. Design and Style When it comes to design, the Mazda3 Hatchback stands out with its sculpted bodywork and refined interior that feels closer to a luxury vehicle than a typical compact. The cabin materials, layout, and attention to detail reflect Mazda's commitment to craftsmanship. The Civic hatchback has a sportier, more expressive look that appeals to drivers who want a bold appearance. Both are attractive options, but the Mazda3 Hatchback vs. Honda Civic comparison often tips toward Mazda for those who prefer a more upscale feel. Safety and Awards Safety is one area where the comparison between Mazda3 Hatchback and the Honda Civic becomes particularly interesting. The 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback earned an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, putting it among the best-performing vehicles in its class. Mazda was also named the Safest New-Car Brand by Consumer Reports, which shows how seriously the brand takes driver and passenger protection. Performance and Driving Feel One of the key differences between the Mazda 3 and the Civic is how each vehicle feels behind the wheel. The Mazda3 Hatchback is engineered around a driver-focused philosophy, offering a more responsive feel on the road. Mazda's chassis tuning and steering feedback tend to reward engaged drivers. The Civic is also a capable performer, but it leans more toward practicality than outright driving enjoyment. If the driving experience matters to you, the Mazda3 Hatchback often earns the edge. Technology and Features Both vehicles come equipped with modern technology, but there is a difference in how those features are implemented. The Mazda3 Hatchback offers a clean, intuitive interior with a standard touchscreen and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features built in. Mazda's approach keeps distractions minimal while keeping you informed and in control. The Civic also offers solid tech, including a touchscreen and driver-assistance features, so this category comes down to personal preference in interface and layout. Efficiency The 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback delivers an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined, a competitive figure for the segment. The Civic is close, and both vehicles are reasonable choices for drivers looking to keep fuel costs manageable. If you're after even greater efficiency, Mazda also offers electrified options across its broader lineup worth exploring. Visit Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon If you're near Shiloh, IL, and ready to experience the Mazda3 Hatchback for yourself, the team at Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon can help. Stop by, ask questions, and take it for a test drive. You can also explore the full lineup at auffenbergmazda.com.

If you've been researching a new Mazda, you've probably come across the term Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE. It sounds technical, but the idea behind it is straightforward - it's a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to help protect you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. So, if you're driving through town or heading out on a longer drive, these features work in the background to help prevent accidents before they happen. What Is Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE? Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE is an umbrella term for a collection of driver-assist and safety technologies that Mazda has built into its vehicles. Rather than offering these features as expensive add-ons, Mazda has worked to make many of them standard across the lineup. The goal is simple - give drivers more awareness and more time to react in potentially dangerous situations. This commitment to safety is a big reason why Mazda has been named the Safest New-Car Brand by Consumer Reports. How Does Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE Work? So, what does Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE do exactly? The system uses a combination of cameras, radar, and sensors to monitor the vehicle's surroundings in real time. These tools feed information to the car's onboard systems, which can alert the driver, apply brakes, or make small steering adjustments when needed. It's not about taking control away from the driver - it's about giving you an extra layer of awareness. Key Technologies Included in Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE covers a wide range of features that work together across different driving scenarios. Some of the most common technologies you'll find include: Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking helps detect vehicles or pedestrians ahead and can apply the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time. Lane-keep assist monitors lane markings and gently guides the steering wheel if the car begins to drift without signaling. Blind spot monitoring uses sensors to alert you when a vehicle enters your blind spot, and rear cross-traffic alert warns of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. Driver attention alert watches for signs of drowsy or inattentive driving and prompts you to take a break when needed. These technologies represent the core of what Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE does for everyday drivers, and many are standard on models throughout the 2026 Mazda lineup. Which Mazda Models Come With i -ACTIVSENSE? Mazda has made i -ACTIVSENSE a priority across nearly the entire lineup. Models like the Mazda CX-5, CX-50, CX-70, CX-90, Mazda3 Sedan, and Mazda3 Hatchback all benefit from these safety technologies. The 2026 Mazda CX-30, CX-50, CX-50 Hybrid, CX-70, CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid, CX-90, CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid, Mazda3 Hatchback, and Mazda3 Sedan have all earned 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards - a validation of Mazda's safety engineering. Why Mazda's Safety Approach Stands Out What separates Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE from other safety systems is how seamlessly it integrates into the driving experience. These features are designed to support the driver without feeling intrusive or overly automated. Mazda believes that a confident, engaged driver is a safer driver, and i -ACTIVSENSE is built around that philosophy. Find Your Safe and Connected Mazda Today Mazda i -ACTIVSENSE is one of the most compelling reasons to consider a new Mazda. From the compact CX-30 to the three-row CX-90, safety technology is woven into the entire experience. Come in and talk with the experts at Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon or visit us online at auffenbergmazda.com to explore the full 2026 Mazda lineup and find the model that's right for you.

When you're ready to upgrade your ride, getting rid of your current car can be a headache. Taking photographs and making a private listing takes time and effort, with no guarantee of a sale. In contrast, trading in your vehicle at your local Mazda dealership is fast, simple, and convenient. Discover more trade-in benefits by talking to your local dealership today. Five Benefits of Trading in Your Vehicle at Your Mazda Dealership 1: Competitive Valuation When you trade your car in at Mazda, you'll always get a fair and transparent valuation. We use Kelley Blue Book to calculate the value of your car, which takes into account the condition of your car, market demand, and any regional differences. The result is a very competitive trade-in value that is guaranteed for seven days, with no catches or hidden costs. more 2: Convenient Transfer Selling your car privately can be a lot of hard work, which can be frustrating when you're keen to purchase your new one. Trading in your car makes the process simple, with all the admin taken care of by the dealership. Everything from the initial valuation to the transfer of title is handled on-site, leaving you free to get on with choosing your new car right away. 3: No Risk of Fraud Putting your details online can be risky, and there are no guarantees of a secure transaction. Some scammers target private car sellers, fraudulently claiming their money back once they have your car. Trading your car in carries none of these risks. Simply visit your local dealership and complete the sale with a simple, secure transaction that's guaranteed. 4: Tax Advantages Some states, including here in Illinois, provide a tax advantage when you offset your trade-in valuation against the cost of a new car. The sales tax only applies to the purchase price after the trade-in value has been deducted. For example, if you trade your car in for $12,000 and your new car costs $35,000, you'll only pay tax on the difference of $23,000. This can save you a substantial amount in tax and makes a trade-in even more valuable. 5: All Cars Accepted When you trade your car in, you don't need to worry about local demand or whether your car is looking its best. You can trade your car in even if it needs a little bit of work, cosmetically or mechanically. This can save you time and money in the long run, freeing you up to focus on your new purchase. Discover More Trade-In Benefits at Your Local Dealership There are even more benefits to discover when you visit your local dealership. Start the process online with an instant offer and visit the dealership to complete the trade-in. If you're ready to trade in your existing car and look for a new one, our friendly team can help. Contact us today at Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon in Shiloh, IL to find out more.

There are plenty of reasons why financing your new car at a dealership is a good idea. Flexible financing options and an effortless, time-saving process are some of the reasons to get an auto loan at your Mazda dealership. Here's a ​rundown of the main advantages you could benefit from when you choose to finance your new Mazda direct when you buy. more 4 Reasons to Finance Your 2025 Mazda at Your Mazda Dealership Convenient, Time-Saving Solution Taking out a car loan from a bank or credit union is usually a time-consuming process, as you'll have to browse the various loan options yourself and file an application to each potential lender. If your application is rejected, you have to repeat the process from scratch. When getting a loan at your Mazda dealer, you only have to complete one application form that will be submitted to a wide range of local and national providers. The dealership's in-house financial team will take time to select the best rates and advise you on the various terms of each financing offer, helping you settle on the best solution based on your financial situation. Multiple Financing Options One of the biggest perks of financing your new Mazda through your dealership is the access to multiple lenders at once, including Mazda's financial services. Getting a car loan directly from the automaker comes with advantages you wouldn't get elsewhere, such as flexible terms, low or waived interest rates, and special deals on select vehicles. Mazda also offers competitive rates and exclusive discounts to certain buyers, such as college graduates, military personnel, and loyal customers. To speed up the application process, you can opt to get pre-approved with Capital One with no impact on your credit score. Added-Value Services Financing your new Mazda at the dealership also allows you to customize your loan with added-value services, such as extended warranties or theft and accident protection. These services provide peace of mind knowing you won't have to pay for a damaged or stolen vehicle. Extended warranties typically include additional services as well, such as roadside and emergency assistance. Options for All Credit Scores Getting a loan if you have an excellent credit score is easy, but if your score is average or below average, our in-house financial team can help you rebuild your credit while enjoying your brand-new Mazda. Your chances of getting an auto loan are also higher at your dealership if you have a lower income. For instance, you could be offered a lower interest rate or longer term. As a leading dealership in the area, we also accept trade-ins from our customers, helping you cover the down payment costs or reduce the amount you have to borrow. Our convenient payment calculator can help you determine your buying power, and we also partner with KBB Instant Cash Offer so you can value your trade-in instantly. To find out whether you ​pre-qualify for low-interest ​Mazda financing and to ​discover all dealership financing solutions, contact us at Auffenberg Mazda in Shiloh, IL to schedule an appointment.

Trying to decide whether to pay outright, go through a bank/credit union, or check out financing options at your Mazda dealership? Of course, it's something worth thinking through. While the first two may have some appeal, don't overlook what your dealership can offer. more 3 Reasons To Explore Financing Options at Your Mazda Dealership 1. Potential for More Savings When shopping for an auto loan, you'll likely be locked into the rate your bank or credit union offers, but that might not be the best deal. Since they set their terms, you're limited to what they provide. Your dealership, on the other hand, works with dozens of financial institutions, ranging from major national lenders to specialized auto financing companies to Mazda's own financing arm. More options mean better rates and potential incentives that your bank can't simply match, such as 0% APR offers and cashback deals. Already have a good rate? Bring it over to the dealership. We might just beat it or offer perks that make financing with us an even better deal. 2. More Options if You Have Bad Credit If you have a poor or no credit score, getting approved for a loan through traditional channels can be challenging. But that does not mean you are out of options. Among the many lenders your dealerships work with, some specialize in helping buyers with less-than-perfect credit. They look beyond the numbers to help you secure a loan that fits your situation. So, instead of hitting a dead end, you could be driving off in the car you need while improving your credit along the way. 3. Convenience Financing through a dealership keeps the entire process simple and stress-free. No need to visit multiple banks, compare endless rates on your own, or juggle extra paperwork. There's also no need to try to move your old car on your own. Many dealerships accept trade-ins, making it easy to apply your vehicle's current value toward your next purchase. Plus, the process moves quickly. With lenders on hand and everything handled in one place, approvals can happen the same day. Getting Pre-Qualified Want to see your loan options without hurting your credit score? Dealerships offer pre-qualification, letting you check estimated monthly payments, APRs, and offer summaries with a soft credit pull, meaning your score stays untouched. Even better, you can get pre-qualified for both used and new cars, giving you more flexibility while you shop. As you can see, dealership financing can be a smarter way to secure a loan. So, if you're ready to make your next car happen, contact Auffenberg Mazda of O'fallon in Shiloh, IL. We've been helping drivers secure great financing deals, and we're certain we can do the same for you.

Leasing benefits a vast number of drivers and is often better than buying a car for some. It's a really great option if you're a fan of convenience, cost savings, and cars with all the latest features. When you head to the Mazda dealership, it's important to weigh all of your financing options, and that includes leasing instead of buying. Check out four benefits of leasing a 2025 Mazda from your local dealership. more 1. Leasing Benefits You Financially There are lots of ways you may save money when leasing a car instead of buying one. First, there's no big down payment to make. Instead, you pay a few fees and the first month's payment in most cases. Then you save money each month, as the monthly cost of leasing is typically lower than the monthly cost of paying back a car loan. Finally, you'll likely save money on repairs. You'll always be driving a newer car when you lease, meaning you'll get the car during its most trouble-free years. That means less money spent repairing problems that crop up. If you lease several cars in a 10-year period, then you'll probably spend a lot less on repairs than someone who buys a car and drives it for a decade. 2. Leasing Lets You Experience New Things Often If you love experiencing all the latest technology and safety innovations that cars have to offer, then leasing is a great way to do that. Many leases only last two or three years, and some people choose to lease a new car annually. That means you'll always be in one of the newest Mazda models, giving you access to all the technological advancements and new, exciting features regularly. 3. Leasing Is Highly Convenient Selling a car and then buying a new one often comes with a lot of hassle, especially if you sell your old car privately. When you're leasing, you can get a new car with no hassle at all. You head to the dealer when your lease ends, give back the car, and then it's off your hands. If you lease your next car, then you'll fill out a little paperwork and drive off in your new ride. There's no need to worry about arranging financing before you get behind the wheel of your new vehicle. 4. Leasing May Let You Drive Fancier Cars Because leasing costs less than buying most of the time, you may be able to drive a fancier car than you would if you were purchasing a vehicle. You may get more packages, upgrades, or a higher trim for the same price you'd pay for a simpler model when purchasing a new Mazda. Come to Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon in Shiloh, IL to lease your next Mazda. Come by between 9 AM and 8 PM Monday to Friday or 8:30 AM to 6 PM on Saturdays to check out our range.

If you're in the market for a reliable SUV, head down to your local Mazda dealership. Mazda produces a number of family SUV options, from the compact CX-30 to the eight-seater CX-90. With so many great family SUV options available at your local Mazda dealership, it can be really tough to determine which one is best for your needs. With that in mind, let’s explore three popular sport utility vehicle options for your family adventures. more 1. Mazda CX-30 For a compact SUV, look no further than the CX-30. With a 250-horsepower 2.5-liter turbo engine at its heart, Mazda's smallest crossover SUV delivers a nippy performance and is perfect for driving around busy city streets. Helping enhance the safety of yourself and other road users is a suite of driver-assist features, including smart brake assist, lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, and a rearview camera. The beautifully crafted interior is deceptively spacious, offering plenty of room for all five passengers to stretch out. Front passengers receive 41.7-inches of legroom while those in the rear enjoy 36.3 inches. Cargo space is not a problem as the CX-30 boasts a 20.2 cubic foot trunk which expands to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded. 2. Mazda CX-50 Family adventures are on the cards with the Mazda CX-50. This off-road capable two-row SUV comes with i-Activ all-wheel drive as standard and has up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance to help you negotiate every trail. Power is delivered by a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. You also have multiple drive modes, including an off-road mode, to adapt the vehicle to the terrain. A 31.4 cubic-foot trunk and high strength roof rails let you securely carry everything you need for camping trips and weekend getaways. And, if you need additional cargo space, a properly equipped CX-50 allows you to hitch a 3,500 pound trailer. 3. Mazda CX-90 Large and growing families should consider the CX-90, Mazda's large three-row SUV for up to eight passengers. Getting everyone aboard is a breeze thanks to the tilting second row which gives you easy access to the third row. Drivers can adjust the cockpit to suit their stature by adjusting the eight-way power driver's seat and the tilt and telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel. Keeping the family entertained is not a problem, as the CX-90 comes with the latest in infotainment systems. At its center is a 10.25-inch full-color touchscreen with voice recognition and smartphone integration. And, USB ports positioned around the cabin ensure devices don't run out of power when on long journeys. The best way to find out which Mazda SUV is the one for you is to check out the full range for yourself. Contact us or visit Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon in Shiloh, IL today, and let our knowledgeable team help you pick out your brand-new Mazda.

You're excited to head to the Mazda dealership and pick out a new car, but there's one problem: you haven't sold your old one yet. Instead of selling it, you should seriously consider trading it in. There are lots of trade-in benefits that you'll enjoy, ranging from convenience to cost savings, so let's examine in detail four major benefits of trading in your vehicle at your local Mazda dealership. more 1. You Can Reduce Your Car Loan Many buyers need to seek financing when buying a new vehicle. When you trade in your old car, you can potentially reduce the amount you need to borrow to purchase your new one. This is because we'll give you a trade-in credit to add to your down payment, reducing what you have to pay for your new car. If your car is only a few years old and in great condition, then the cost savings when buying a new vehicle can be significant. This is especially true if you're buying a highly affordable model next. 2. You Can Avoid Hassle Selling your car yourself can take a lot of work. You have to put up ads, vet buyers, potentially allow people to test drive the car, and then find a secure way to accept payment. There's none of that when trading in. You just have to drive to the dealership, get your car evaluated, sign a little paperwork, and then you're done. 3. You Can Save Time Selling your car to someone often takes a lot more time than trading in your car at the dealership. It may take you days or weeks to find an interested buyer who can pay up. Since you may need the sales money from your old car to help with your down payment on your new car, this can delay you getting a new vehicle. Plus, supervising test drives and meeting with prospective buyers can take time away from more important areas of your life. If you choose to trade in your vehicle, then you can visit the dealer, trade in your old car, and buy a new one on the same day. The process may be even quicker if you finance your new car through the dealership, too. 4. You Can Save Money On Repairs You can potentially save money by trading in your car rather than selling it. Before selling your car, you need to schedule repairs to get it in top shape and increase your chances of selling it for a great price. Dealerships are sometimes less picky and are often happy to accept a trade-in that isn't in pristine condition. After all, dealerships can very easily repair your car after buying it from you before selling it to the next interested buyer. If you're ready to trade in your car, then we're ready to help you. Come by Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon in Shiloh, IL today.

With a capable powertrain and upscale styling inside out, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 offers a premium driving experience in a crossover SUV, here at your local Mazda dealership in Shiloh. Let’s take a look at the features, luxury touches, power, performance, and technology to expect in the new 2025 Mazda CX-30. more Luxurious Cabin and Infotainment The 5-seater cabin of the 2025 Mazda CX-30 is spacious with 41.7 inches of legroom in the front row, and you can comfortably seat three six-foot passengers in the back thanks to the rear row's 36.3 inches. The base model offers ergonomically designed cloth-trimmed sport seats, but the 2.5 S Preferred trim level comes with leather-trimmed seats and a heated 8-way power driver seat with memory settings. You also get a leather-wrapped steering wheel with the 2.5 S Select Sport trim level and above. A modern 8.8-inch infotainment screen extends from the center of the dashboard and comes with Mazda Connect. The higher trim levels offer a 10.25-inch touchscreen and have an integrated Mazda online navigation system, alongside offline navigation. The standard 6-speaker audio system provides exceptional sound quality for playing music via Bluetooth, USB input, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or built-in Alexa. The 2.5 S Carbon Edition trim levels and above also feature a wireless charger to keep your devices powered. Ultramodern Technology The CX-30 is among the safest crossover SUVs on the road with a vast suite of standard safety features, including emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and dynamic stability control. Higher trim levels add more of the industry's best safety features, such as traffic sign recognition and an adaptive front lighting system. The crossover SUV also comes with Mazda Radar Cruise Control, lane-keep assist, and an available 360-view camera to help drivers on long road trips. With a focus on luxury, the technology aboard the CX-30 cabin offers intuitive conveniences like a 7-inch LCD meter to display speed between two analog meters, keyless ignition, a power moonroof, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim level also comes with auto-dimming rearview mirrors with HomeLink and auto-dimming driver's exterior side mirror. Impressive Powertrain Under the hood, the CX-30 houses a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, which produces 191 hp – more than enough power to serve as a reliable daily driver. If you seek high-end performance from the crossover SUV, all trim levels above the 2.5 Carbon Turbo are powered by a turbocharged engine that cranks out 250 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. All trim levels come with all-wheel drive (AWD), and a Skyactiv-G six-speed electronically controlled sport automatic transmission. The Mazda CX-30 is extremely fuel efficient, achieving an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined with its standard engine. The powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. Ready to explore everything the crossover SUV has to offer? Visit us today at Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon in Shiloh, IL to browse our inventory and find the perfect Mazda CX-30 trim level for you.

Are you looking for the best place to get car financing for a new Mazda vehicle? Your Mazda dealer is the best place to go. Dealership financing is beneficial for people with busy schedules, low credit scores, and picky natures. Let's examine in more detail the benefits of financing through your Mazda dealer in Shiloh, IL. more 3 Benefits of Getting Car Financing through Your Mazda Dealer 1. Online Application and One-Stop-Shopping Do you have an extremely busy schedule? Dealership financing can help. Not every bank and credit union allows you to apply for a loan online, but the vast majority of dealerships, including ours, do. Once your credit pre-approval comes in, you can come down to the dealership and get everything done all in one place, fast and easy. Once you're here, you can get an appraisal for your old vehicle, sell it to us, and pick out a new or used Mazda from our lot. You can use the value of your trade-in to lower the asking price of your new vehicle, and then you can fill out the paperwork to make that car yours. Once you're done, you can drive straight home behind the wheel of your brand-new ride. The entire process requires a single trip. 2. No Limits on Picking Your New Car Are you picky about what you want? If so, going to a dealer first is a very good idea. People who are very specific about what features and options they like in a car, or people who have their heart set on a particular model, should find a dealer that has the car model they desire in stock. From there, you should apply for financing through that dealer. This is because there's no guarantee you'll get a car that meets your wants and needs when you apply for financing through a traditional financial institution. Banks and credit unions often have networks of dealers they require their customers to pick their new car from. You can never guarantee that one of these dealers will have a car that you're 100% happy with. As a new car is such a huge investment, it's important to be completely satisfied. 3. Loan Approval for Low Credit Scores Is your credit score a little less than perfect? Imperfect credit is common but may make it difficult to qualify for a loan through traditional financial institutions, but you'll most likely get approved when you apply through a dealer instead. Dealerships don't have the same strict financial requirements as traditional financial institutions when it comes to applying for a car loan. If you can't get a loan anywhere else, then a dealer may still approve your application. Come to Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon in Shiloh, IL to apply for financing today. You can also complete your pre-approval online through our website.