Mazda3

A Cut Above: Mazda’s Mazda3

September 17, 2020 by admin Leave a Comment

Upscale Mazda3 is offered as a sedan or hatchback.

Small car models are dwindling in numbers as consumers continue to move to crossovers. For the remaining players, including the Mazda Mazda3, offering distinct features is important if customers are to be won to the segment, let alone the marque. The 2020 Mazda3 does just that with its sharp styling, upscale interior, and available all-wheel drive.

2020 Mazda3 Review

Mazda offers the 2020 Mazda3 in four trims: base ($21,500), Select ($22,700), Preferred ($24,200), and Premium ($26,500).

On all but the base trim, all-wheel drive is a $1,400 option. Add $995 for the destination charge.

Exterior

Mazda has one of our favorite car designs — period. Its “soul of motion” or KODO design language never gets tiring – it looks sporty, refined, and interesting. We do think the hatchback has the better styling, but the sedan has its own beauty found in its gaping grille, slender headlamps, dynamic character lines, and tucked in rear. It shares nearly everything with the hatchback, but it is 9 inches longer overall.

The list of standard features is impressive as it includes LED lighting all around – headlights, daytime running lights, and rear combination lights. Power-folding side mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels, and rain-sensing wipers are standard. Yes, some of these features are upmarket items, more common to top trims or luxury models.

Move up to the Select trim and this one gains side mirror integrated turn signals and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Preferred trim has a shark-fin antenna while the Premium adds an adaptive front-lighting system, better LED lighting, a power sliding moonroof, and upmarket 18-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

Once again, the Mazda3 pulls out all the stops with the interior. Yes, you’ll find some plastics, but you’ll also find soft-touch materials galore. We especially like the two-tone dashboard design.

The front seats are quite comfortable; the rear seat is manageable for mostly anyone of average size. The look and feel of the cabin is upscale and pleasing to the eye.

Mazda outfits the “3” with full power accessories, push-button start, an electronic parking brake, air conditioning, and pretty cloth-trimmed seats.

Move up to the Select trim and imitation leather seats come in. Mazda also wraps the steering wheel and gear selector in leather. The rear bench seat gains a center armrest with cup holders.

At the Preferred level, an overhead console with sunglasses holder comes in. Other features include an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support. The Premium trim features perforated leather-trimmed seats and steering wheel-mounted paddles shifters.

Tech

We like the standard tech offerings with the Mazda3. In fact, with an 8-speaker audio system offered from the onset, that’s at least two more speakers than what most competitors supply.

Mazda equips its compact sedan with an 8.8-inch touch-screen display, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. At the Select level, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration are added.

Move up to the Preferred and satellite radio appears. You’ll also find a 12-speaker Bose audio system – yes, Bose.

Is there anything we don’t like about Mazda’s tech features? Yes, the infotainment interface with its big dial takes time to get used to. We’re not sure we ever did either – we like competing systems that are far more intuitive and simpler to use. And much less distracting.

Safety

The list of standard safety features includes high beam control, driver attention alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keep assist. Move up to the Select trim and this one brings in blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

You’ll also find adaptive cruise control with full stop and go (automatics only), while models with the manual transmission also offer adaptive cruise control, but with the stop and go feature.

Performance

Mazda supplies one engine choice and it’s the largest one in its class. With a displacement of 2.5 liters, this naturally aspirated engine matches the size of what midsize sedans have. Indeed, the Mazda6 is powered by the same engine or by the optional turbo version.

With an even 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, the Mazda3’s engine has more than sufficient power to move this little sedan (or hatchback). And as is increasingly difficult to find, you can still get a 6-speed manual gearbox or opt for the 6-speed automatic transmission. One more point: you’ll find available all-wheel drive, a feature uncommon to this segment. Only Subaru offers it as standard equipment. High-performance models such as the Ford Focus RS had it, but that model is no longer offered stateside.

Our test model came with all-wheel drive, but we weren’t able to enjoy its full benefits as the roads were clear on the days we drove it. Ideally, all-wheel drive is useful on slick roads, especially where snow and ice are prevalent. Notably, this part-time system kicks in when rear-wheel slippage is detected, then shuttles some of the power rearward to stabilize the vehicle. We recommend upgrading for anyone living in a wintry climate – just ensure that all four wheels are shod with winter tires for enhanced grip.

When driving the Mazda3, we were satisfied with the amount of power offered – from step-off to passing performance. Its straightaway performance is good, but the way it behaves on twisty roads is even better thanks to accurate steering and sharp handling. The suspension system performs admirably by absorbing most road imperfections with ease.

We think the estimated 35/36 highway mpg is attainable. Our average was just under 30 mpg due to an even mix of local and highway driving. You’ll lose a few mpg with all-wheel drive, but that’s the trade-off for a car designed to offer superior grip throughout the winter.

Competitive Set

The Mazda3 finds fewer competitors these days as Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford are no longer selling compact cars in the U.S. The remaining players, though, are formidable and include the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Nissan Sentra.

Other models in this segment include the Kia Forte, Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Jetta, and the Subaru Impreza. All models come with front-wheel drive. The Subaru is the exception with its standard all-wheel drive.

Our Recommendation

Start your search with the Select trim, then decide if the available upgrades are worth the extra cost. Pricey on the top end, the Mazda3 with the Preferred trim will cost you just over $25,000. And that’s a decent price for this stylish sedan that punches above its weight.

2020 Mazda3 Sedan Specifications

Mazda	2020 Mazda3 Sedan
Segment	Compact Car
Price Range	$21,500 to $26,500
Destination Charge	$995
Standard Engine	2.5-liter, I4
Horsepower	186 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	186 @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission	6-speed manual; 6-speed automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,022 to 3,255
Wheelbase (inches)	107.3
Length (inches)	183.5
Width (inches)	70.7
Height (inches)	56.9
Headroom (f,r…inches)	38.0, 37.3
Legroom (f,r…inches)	42.3, 35.1
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	55.7, 53.5
Hip room (f,r…inches)	54.6, 50.9
Storage (cubic feet)	13.2
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	13.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	27/36/30 (FWD); 24/32/27 (AWD)
Manufacturing Plant	Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan

See Also — On the Road With a 2020 Mazda CX-5

Premium Utility: 2020 Mazda CX-30

March 17, 2020 by admin 4 Comments

This 2020 CX-30 slots between the CX-3 and CX-5, and is one of four Mazda utility vehicles.

Utility vehicles are not the utilitarian conveyances they once were with nondescript front fascias, slab sides, and dreary interiors. These days, customers can find several models that incorporate car styling cues, while remaining faithful to their mission.

2020 Mazda CX-30 Review

The 2020 Mazda CX-30, which is an all-new model, is an excellent example of a vehicle that’s handsome, practical, and worth exploring. Mazda offers the 2020 CX30 from $23,000, including a $1,100 destination charge.

Instead of offering trims, the CX-30 comes with packages: Select ($25,000), Preferred ($27,300), and Premium ($29,300); each package builds on the previous one. You’ll find standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive, the latter a $1,400 option.

Exterior

How does Mazda make its vehicles so beautiful? It starts with a leading-edge design philosophy, known as KODO or “soul of motion.” What this represents is a fluidic canvas marked by flowing lines, sweeping curves, and tight corners.

In particular, the CX-30’s front fascia features a gaping maw, slim headlamps, and a narrow lower intake. In other words, it has a sportscar persona upfront. From the rear, the little Mazda offers round taillamps within wing-like rear lights. Carefully placed curves supply the liftgate with distinction that’s almost haunch-like at first glance.

Chiseled looks and a sportscar stance mark this Mazda.

Mazda outfits the CX-30 with standard LED headlights and daytime running lights, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and power-controlled side mirrors. With the Select Package, the upgrades include 18-inch wheels and keyless entry.

Choose the Preferred Package and Mazda adds a shark fin antenna and exterior embellishments, including a front grille highlighted by gloss finish. With the top-level Premium Package, Mazda includes enhanced LED lighting, adaptive front lights, roof rails, a power-sliding moonroof, and a rear power liftgate.

Interior

Automakers have gone to great strides to make the interiors of even basic models look more lavish than before. Still, with nearly every model you’ll find an abundance of soft-touch materials, plastics, and brightwork trim. That’s no surprise as small budgets require basic materials.

The Mazda CX-30 offers its share of soft materials and cloth-trimmed seats, but immediately pivots beginning with the first package. Specifically, that package adds imitation leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a rear-seat armrest with center console and two cup holders.

Opt for the Preferred Package and an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, heated front seats, and an overhead console with sunglasses holder comes in. But it is with Premium Package where Mazda turns on the luxury spigot, which flows forth with perforated leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped dashboard, the latter unheard of in this class.

The CX-30’s cabin is comfortable and small. The best seats are upfront. Indeed, for some people, the only seats are upfront as the rear compartment is quite confining for adults. A lack of meaningful legroom means the rear compartment is most suitable for two children in booster seats or pre-teens. That said, we think the CX-30 appeals mostly to solo drivers or couples, people who value flair, distinction, and premium features within a small frame.

Tech

Mazda’s tech is a curious affair with its handsome 8.8-inch display panel. Oddly, it isn’t a touch-screen system. Instead, it is controlled by a dial, much like BMW. Bluetooth, HD Radio, two USB ports, and an 8-speaker audio system are standard.

To obtain smartphone compatibility – Android Auto and Apple CarPlay – you have to opt for the Select Package. That’s one of the few oddities of this Mazda as both are generally supplied as standard equipment in competing models. Satellite radio doesn’t appear until the Preferred Package, which includes a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Choose the Preferred Package and a head-up display is included.

Certainly, if you value specific features, you may find yourself opting for packages you’d otherwise prefer not to purchase.

Fully optioned, the leather interior matches some luxury models.

Safety

Beyond the requisite suite of airbags and rearview camera, the CX-30 comes with lane departure warning, lane keep assist, automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control with full stop and go. Blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert is included with the Select Package.

The CX-30’s safety bundle is what you’d expect with most any new vehicle these days. The one feature not available is semi-autonomous driving, which essentially drives the car while your hands remain on the wheel.

The IIHS awarded the 2020 CX-30 with its Top Safety Pick award. We’re awaiting a crash-test rating from the NHTSA. To sum up, the CX-30’s safety features and ratings are where we’d expect this model to be.

Performance

The CX-30 comes with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available. With an output of 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, this engine finds a middle ground between efficiency and performance.

Indeed, it is the same engine used in several other Mazda products, including the Mazda6 sedan and the Mazda CX-5 crossover. In the CX-30, it seems especially strong, thanks to this vehicle’s smaller footprint and lighter weight than larger Mazda models.

Under full throttle, the powertrain leaps into action, by delivering copious amounts of power. It’s steady off the start and quickly picks up speed when required. The transmission works unobtrusively in the background, serving up gears without drama. Switch to sport mode and the gear shifting stretches out, holding on longer than what seems necessary, but that’s a Mazda attribute.

The CX-30 crosses a one-lane bridge in Moore County, NC.

The CX-30 shares much of its running gear with the highly desirable Mazda3. Mazda utilizes shocks and springs up front with springs and a Torsen bar in the rear. Even with its higher profile, the CX-30 manages curves and corners with relative ease. It is about as performance-oriented a crossover you’ll find in this class or with anything else on tap. Spot-on steering and engaging handling make this small Mazda a fun drive, although not quite to the level of the Mazda3.

Lastly, this crossover isn’t designed for anything more than light off-road duty when equipped with all-wheel drive. It has nearly 8 inches of ground clearance, but it doesn’t come with the under armor protection and low transmission gearing required to pull this vehicle out of tough spots.

Competitive Set

The CX-30 slots between the CX-3 and CX-5 within Mazda’s four-model utility line. The CX-9 is the brand’s fourth crossover model. The CX-30 name seems odd, but there is a reason for it: CX-4 is used in China by another manufacturer.

Among the competing models in this class are the Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and the Nissan Rogue Sport. We also think shoppers of small luxury crossovers might consider the CX-30, especially when the Mazda comes fully loaded. In this case, the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Mercedes-Benz CLS are models to compare.

Our Recommendation

Choose a CX-30 with at least the Select Package and you’ll enjoy many of the features in a small crossover for under $25,000. We recommend all-wheel drive if you live in a snowy climate, otherwise, the standard front-wheel-drive layout is sufficient.

In all, the Mazda CX-30 is a great product in a highly competitive segment. Quite simply, it underscores why Mazda is a premium player in the mainstream market, with a modest boost in standard pricing over other models.

This all-wheel-drive CX-30 manages gravel roads just fine.

2020 Mazda CX-30 Specifications

Mazda	2020 CX-30
Segment	Compact SUV
Price Range	$21,900 to $29,600
Destination Charge	$1,100
Standard Engine	2.5-liter, I4
Horsepower	186 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	186 lb.-ft. @ 6,000 rpm
Transmission	6-speed automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,232 to 3,408
Wheelbase (inches)	104.5
Length (inches)	173.0
Width (inches)	70.7
Height (inches)	61.7
Headroom (f,r…inches)	38.1, 37.8
Legroom (f,r…inches)	NR, 36.3
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	55.6, 53.6
Hip room (f,r…inches)	54.6, 53.2
Storage (cubic feet)	20.2
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	13.5
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	25/33/28
Manufacturing Plant	Hiroshima, Japan

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — Drop-Top Delight: 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Hot Hatch: 2019 Mazda3

May 29, 2019 by admin 6 Comments

All-wheel drive comes to Mazda’s compact hatchback and sedan.

The Mazda3 hatchback adds available all-wheel drive, perhaps setting the framework for Mazdaspeed to return.

Mazda is a small player in a world of large car manufacturers, but its presence outstrips its size. The company is best known for mainstreaming the Wankel rotary engine and for giving the world the delicious MX-5 Miata roadster. We miss the enhanced Mazdaspeed line of performance models, although rumors persist that one or more models will return.

And that return may be based on the Mazda3 with its available all-wheel-drive system. Yes, all-wheel drive has come to Mazda’s compact model, joining the WRX and Impreza, which offer it as standard equipment and the Volkswagen Golf, where it is available. As for the Ford Focus, that model with its all-wheel-drive RS is no longer available in the U.S.

Sounds like a perfect opportunity for Mazda to jump in!

2019 Mazda Mazda3 Overview

You can purchase the Mazda3 as either a sedan or a hatchback. Both models share the same platform and wheelbase length, but the sedan is several inches longer overall. We’ll look at the hatchback primarily as that’s the model presented to us for review.

Mazda prices the 2019 Mazda3 hatchback from $23,600, which is $2,600 more than the sedan. Opting for all-wheel drive is a $1,400 upgrade available across the model line.

You’ll find one trim plus two packages with the 2019 Mazda3. Models with the Preferred Package (power side mirrors, 12-speaker Bose audio system. satellite radio, 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, and heated front seats) cost $25,200.

The Premium Package-equipped hatchback costs $27,500 and adds such features as LED headlights and taillights, adaptive front lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a power sliding moonroof, and radar cruise control on models equipped with the manual transmission. Yes, it is with this package only you can opt for a manual gearbox. Add $920 for the destination charge.

Highlights of the 2019 Mazda3

The following are the most noteworthy facts about the Mazda3:

1. Cutting edge styling all of its own.

Mazda uses the term “KODO” to describe its styling direction. This means “soul of motion,” which describes in part every model’s fluidic design. Here, you’ll find a gaping grille, raised flanks, a rising beltline, ample creases and body sculpting, and pulled in corners. On the hatchback, the look is all the more expressive as the rear quarter is high and short.

All models come with LED lights — headlights, combination lights, and daytime running lights. With the Premium Package, Mazda adds LED signature lighting front and back. Dual-folding side mirrors and a roofline spoiler are also included. Upgrades include designer wheels and a shark fin antenna. Overall, the look is sporty.

2. An interior on par with some premium models.

Just as the exterior has its styling credentials, the interior does likewise. In fact, Mazda pulled out all the stops when designing the cabin, amplified by the stacked and sculptured layout of the dashboard. The look is premium and rivals what we’ve seen on some costlier models, including the Audi A3.

The contrasting layered look on our fully loaded model was especially noteworthy. As shown, Mazda meticulously crafted every surface for maximum visual appeal. There’s plenty of storage compartments and pockets at the ready, and very little plastic. Again, the sophisticated design belies this model’s mainstream appeal. With the available leather seats, the look is truly luxurious.

3. Improved technologies for the taking.

One of the gripes we’ve had about Mazda is the small display screens in many of its models. The Mazda3 now features an 8.8-inch screen that’s wide and clear. On the other hand, it isn’t a touchscreen display and it does require using a Multifunction Commander control to manage. That’s unfortunate as the learning curve is long.

But we do like the standard Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto smartphone integration. You’ll also find HD Radio, Internet radio integration, connected apps, and USB ports. The Preferred Package brings in a lovely sounding 12-speaker Bose audio system and satellite radio. An “active driving display” or head-up display is included with the Premium Package.

4. Ample storage room for short and long trips.

Mazda published storage measurement with the rear seat in place, measuring a respectable 20.1 cubic feet. What they didn’t reveal was how much space is available with the rear seat folded. We estimate about 40 cubic feet, which supplies even room to bring a week’s worth of gear for two with you on your next vacation.

5. Performance that has us wanting more.

We won’t mislead you by saying the Mazda3 is a performance maven. It is not. Instead, it offers decent off-the-mark acceleration and passing power.

Mazda could have gone with a smaller engine, deteriorating the power level (186 hp) with it, but happily, they did not. And yet, we think a turbocharged four-cylinder engine would suit this model perfectly, along the lines of Mazdaspeed.

Rumors that Mazdaspeed might return (last produced in 2013) should gladden the hearts of enthusiasts. It would give the brand the bona fides its needs as well as fill the product gaps left with Mitsubishi and Ford no longer competing. We’d change the suspension system though to conform to what drivers expect, even if it means a loss in storage space.

6. Crisp steering and adroit handling.

We give Mazda credit for this hatchback’s crisp stewing and competent handling, the latter ideal for pulling out of corners with ease. Still, the torsion-beam rear suspension could have been exchanged for a multi-link arrangement for improved handling. On the other hand, the torsion-beam arrangement sits lower and therefore doesn’t intrude on the storage compartment.

7. Efficiency we appreciate.

So-so performance notwithstanding, we were quite impressed by how efficient the Mazda3 is. We knew that 30 mpg was within reach, even with the added weight of the all-wheel drive.

To our surprise, the Mazda3 averaged closer to 35 mpg for the week we had it. Impressive? You bet! A quick survey of competing models show lower numbers. Then again, the tradeoff is a significant power edge over the Mazda.

Auto Trends Recommends

Yes, you can buy the Mazda3 with front-wheel drive. In fact, we recommend this option for most buyers. The all-wheel-drive system is an interesting component, useful for people who live where wintry climate prevails. There is a handling advantage, especially when cornering, but it isn’t as tossable as the Focus RS or Golf R.

The package upgrades are certainly worth considering. You’ll come away with a vehicle that’s stylish, well equipped, and offers good value. Your out-the-door price comes in just above $29,000 and that’s before discounts. In effect, the Mazda3 splits the difference between mainstream and luxury models, delivering a premium package for a competitive price.

2019 Mazda3 Hatchback Specifications

Mazda	2019 Mazda3
Segment	Compact Car
Base Sticker Price	$24,520 ( includes $920 destination charge)
Price as tested	$29,820
Standard Engine	2.5-liter inline-four
Horsepower	186 @ 6,000 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.)	186 @ 4,000 RPMs
Transmission(s)	Six-speed manual or automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,022 to 3,255
Wheelbase (inches)	107.3
Length (inches)	175.6
Width (inches)	70.7
Height (inches)	56.7
Headroom (f,r…inches)	38.0; 37.2
Legroom (f,r…inches)	42.3; 35.1
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	55.7; 53.4
Hip room (f,r…inches)	54.6; 50.9
Storage (cubic feet)	20.1
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	13.2 (FWD), 12.7 (AWD)
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway)	26/35/30 (FWD); 24/32/27 (AWD) city/highway/combined
Manufacturing Plant	Hiroshima, Japan

See Also — Turbo Wonder: 2018 Mazda6

Zoom-Zoom: 2018 Mazda3 Hatchback

December 20, 2017 by admin 6 Comments

Mazda3: Fun-to-drive and affordable.

Small cars have been taking it on the chin these past few years as the market continues to shift to crossovers. Mazda is well represented in the SUV market with three distinct models in the subcompact, compact and midsize range.

Yet, this automaker hasn’t abandoned cars and shows no signs of doing so. Indeed, the delicious MX-5 Miata roadster/convertible is nearly new, while the handsome midsize Mazda 6 is refreshed for 2018. That leaves the compact Mazda3, available in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback.

2018 Mazda3 Sedan and Hatchback

Mazda offers it sedan/hatchback model in three trims: Sport ($18,970/$20,220), Touring ($20,965/$21,715) and Grand Touring ($24,020/$24,770). Prices include an $875 destination fee. Add $1,050 for an automatic transmission.

My test model was a Mazda3 Grand Touring hatchback. The sticker price came in at $27,920. At this trim, you have eight colors to choose from. Mine was an attractive Snowflake White Pearl Mica, costing $200. Two other paints incur an extra charge as well: Soul Red Metallic and Machine Gray Metallic ($300). Although I’m not especially a fan of white paint, I like how it looks on this hatchback. Besides, it helped make my photos look great!

Other significant upgrades included the automatic transmission and the Grand Touring Premium Equipment Package — bringing in high beam control, lane departure warning system, lane-keep assist, radar cruise control, smart brake support, and traffic sign recognition.

2018 Mazda3

Engines and Transmissions

Not every manufacturer offers multiple engine and transmission choices in this segment. Count Mazda among those that do.

The standard engine comes with the Sport model only: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, generating 155 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 150 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 RPM. Touring and Grand Touring models are motivated by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, making 184 horsepower at 5,700 RPM and 185 pound-feet of torque at 3,250 RPM. Yes, both engines bang out more power than certain equivalent models, thanks to the “SKYACTIV” technology, which supplies higher compression ratios and other advantages.

Credit Mazda with sticking with manual transmissions when so many manufacturers have dropped them or make them available on the base trim only. The front-wheel drive Mazda3 comes with a six-speed gearbox across the product line or a six-speed automatic transmission. Sadly, my tester came with the automatic and paddle shifters, but I managed somehow….

Trim-by-Trim Breakdown

With three trims to choose from and a handful of packages, there are several ways to build your Mazda3. However, take note of the base Sport trim and all that it has to offer. Indeed, this model comes equipped, not stripped.

1. Sport

2018 Mazda3 I’ve seen far more expensive car with standard features that aren’t much better than what the Mazda3 offers and that’s a credit to Mazda. Indeed, one of the standout features of this vehicle is its standard 16-inch alloy wheels. Again, that’s alloy — not steel wheels. And that’s an important consideration when shopping for a new car. The base or Sport trim also comes equipped with halogen headlights, daytime running lights, power-folding side mirrors and dual exhaust tips.

Inside, you’ll find power windows and door locks, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, push-button start, cruise control, cloth seats, air conditioning and a seven-inch color touchscreen display. That display is part of the MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system with a six-speaker audio package, HD Radio, two USB inputs, an auxiliary audio jack and such apps as Pandora, Stitcher and Aha.

The Sport is also the only model with the base 2.0-liter engine. On the safety front, you’ll find a rearview mirror and low-speed brake support. An available Appearance Package ($1,750) brings in an aero kit with a brilliant black front air dam, side sills, door mirror caps and a rear diffuser.

2. Touring

The main upgrade at the Touring level is the 2.5-liter engine. You’ll also find automatic headlights, heated side mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, Mazda adds keyless entry, a six-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support, imitation leather seats, dual-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and heated front seats. Among safety items, the Touring adds blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Besides the available Appearance Package, Mazda offers a Bose/Moonroof/Satellite Radio Package ($1,500) featuring, you guessed it, a nine-speaker audio system with a power moonroof and satellite radio.

2018 Mazda3

3. Grand Touring

The top-of-the-line Grand Touring model adds numerous high-end features, including Bi-LED headlights with automatic leveling, LED daytime running lights, LED fog lights, LED combination lamps and a shark fin antenna.

Mazda also adds all the items from the Bose/Moonroof/Satellite Radio Package, brings in an analog tachometer and speedometer along with perforated leather-trimmed seats.

Besides the Appearance Package, a Premium Equipment Package ($1,600) adds such items as high beam control, adaptive front lighting, a heated steering wheel, paddle shifters and navigation. You’ll also find a host of driver-assist features, including lane departure warning, lane keep assist, radar cruise control, brake support and traffic sign recognition.

On the Road

The Mazda3 has a reputation for being a driver’s car. That reputation was evident throughout my week with this little cruiser.

Personally, I’ve always preferred larger rear-wheel drive vehicles to take on my many romps through the central North Carolina countryside. Cars like the Ford Mustang, Jaguar F-TYPE and the BMW 4 Series have provided much enjoyment down through the years. That said, size matters when it comes to fun and several small cars such as the Subaru WRX, Volkswagen Golf R and the Ford Focus RS have also been a blast to drive.

2018 Mazda3

Still, all three are all-wheel-drive models and pricey ones too. Where can you get an inexpensive, yet fun-to-drive front-wheel-drive model? From Mazda, of course.

The Mazda3, especially in hatchback guise looks like a road maven with its tightly pulled together layout. And especially so from the rear where its “almost” fastback design hints at great things to come.

What I like best about the Mazda3 (or at least with my test model), is that this hot hatchback never fails to impress. The only drawback was my test model came with the automatic transmission. I cannot supply an honest assessment of how the manual operates (i.e., shifting, clutch uptake and the like). But I will say the 3 offers ample power, weighty steering and superior handling.

The twisty (and in places hilly) back roads about 50 miles south of me is where I put the Mazda3 through the paces. The chassis is firm and that promotes drivability, especially as you enter every curve and pull out again. The Mazda carves curves with precision; you won’t find yourself fighting with the steering wheel nor braking in an effort to maintain control. Give yourself some freedom by shifting into manual mode and fingering the paddle shifters. Take note of the engine throttle and find your sweet spot as you shift to your heart’s content. The Mazda complies, sending feedback through the steering wheel and to your hands.

2018 Mazda3

Parting Thoughts

Who said inexpensive transportation has to be boring? Not Mazda. And certainly not with the Mazda3. If pricing is a big concern to you, a sub-$20,000 ride is within reach. Usually, I recommend shoppers avoid the base trim, but in this case the Sport model comes with many amenities shoppers prize.

Still, my pick here is the Touring edition for the simple reason it has the most powerful engine. Combine a solid chassis with handsome looks, a potent engine and your choice of transmissions, and you’ll come away with a compact model that aces the fun factor.

2018 Mazda3 Grand Touring Hatchback

Sticker price from $24,770
Seats five
Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas
184 horsepower @ 5,700 RPM
185 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,250 RPM
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 106.3 inches
Length: 175.6 inches
Width: 70.7 inches
Height: 57.3 inches
Passenger volume: 96.4 cubic feet
Storage volume: 20.2/47.1 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 28/37 mpg city/highway (est.)
Regular gasoline
Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons
Curb weight: 3,098 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick
Limited vehicle warranty: 36 months/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 60 months/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 60 months/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Hiroshima, Japan

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Small Mazda is Big on its Future

January 4, 2013 by admin Leave a Comment

Among car manufacturers with a presence in the United States, Mazda is small and easily outsold by more than half the market players. In recent years the company has sought to separate itself from the Ford Motor Company while some of its closest rivals including Subaru, Isuzu and Daihatsu, are now partially owned by the Japanese mothership, Toyota.

Japanese Exit

Mazda CX-5 Isuzu and Daihatsu no longer sell cars in the US and Suzuki is the next player that is wrapping up its American dealer network. Mitsubishi continues to struggle and may make its exit next, leaving just Subaru and Mazda standing in addition to Toyota, Honda and Nissan.

That Mazda remains viable is a credit to its management team especially as it has seen Fords stake whittle from 33.4 percent in 2008 to just 3.5 percent today. The two companies previously collaborated on several models including cars and SUVs. That collaboration has ended with both companies now building separate platforms for previously related products.

US Sales

Mazda’s December US sales rose by 21.6 percent and finished up by 10.6 percent for 2012. Although the year-over-year gain is below the 13.4 percent market increase for the year, it is a good sign that Mazda is still being taken seriously by consumers. Mazdas gains were below Toyota, Honda and Subaru, but came in at a faster clip than Nissan, Ford and GM. In comparison, Mitsubishi’s sales tumbled by 26.9 percent.

2014 Mazda6 Mazda has long counted on the Mazda3 to provide about half of its sales. This compact car is quite easily one of the best in its segment, prized for its sporty looks, good handling and very good gas mileage. The Mazdaspeed3 is its halo, performance model, a five-door hatchback that features an all-aluminum 2.3-liter in-line four cylinder engine and a track-tuned suspension. For 2012, the Mazda3 made up 44 percent of its US sales.

SKYACTIV Technologies

Relying on one model especially a compact vehicle is not a plan for success. New technologies, including its SKYACTIV family of lightweight and efficient engines and transmissions, are beginning to roll out across the Mazda lineup, beginning with the CX-5 and soon extending to the 2014 Mazda6 midsize sedan. That sedan will be priced from $20,880 and is EPA-rated at 38 mpg on the highway, tying the segment-leading Nissan Altima. This vehicle is rated 26 mpg around town.

How long Mazda will maintain its mostly independent path is not known. However, with a bevy of exciting and fuel efficient models on tap including European models equipped with diesel engines, its short-term future should be good. Down the road as the industry continues to consolidate Mazda may find hooking up with a suitor or forming an alliance will be to its liking. In the meantime, concern that this Japanese brand might beat Mitsubishi to the exit door seem unfounded, an unlikely prospect at that.

See Also — Snazzy SUV: 2016 Mazda CX-5