Mazda 3 is the smallest sedan/hatchback from Japanese automaker Mazda, yet one of the most popular. In fact, it's now Mazda's best-selling vehicle worldwide. First introduced in 2003 as a replacement for the long-running compact Protégé, Mazda 3 has done an impressive job of standing out from a crowded field of sometimes better known and competent rivals. The four-cylinder, front-wheel drive Mazda 3 sets itself apart with a reputation as not just a sporty-looking compact, but one of the most fun-to-drive of the bunch. It's the athletic alternative.
In the 2007 model year, an even higher performance turbocharged Mazdaspeed3 four cylinders entered the fray for those thirsting for more thrust in their compacts. The next progression for Mazda3 is the second-generation version debuting in the 2010 model year. With a bold new front grille and larger 2.5-liter engine leading the way, this next effort does not disappoint Mazda 3 loyalists or those counting on a bit more "Zoom Zoom" in their driving experience. Generation II remains evolutionary, rather than revolutionary; it retains many of the fun-to-drive underpinnings while sprinkling in upgraded interior and exterior nuances.
In 2010 as in years past, the Japan-built Mazda 3 is available in sedan and five-door hatchback body styles. Sedan trims include Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and a budget-minded SV with an exclusive five-speed manual transmission. A 2.0-liter four cylinder (delivering 149 horsepower) or new 2.5-liter four cylinder is available depending on the sedan trim selected. One aspect remains unchanged from Gen 1; wheelbase (distance between front and rear axle) measures 103.9 inches.
In the versatile five-door hatchback, two trim levels are available: Sport and Grand Touring. The new, larger 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing comes standard in both trims. This engine replaces a 2.3-liter version from the previous generation. This 2.5-liter is similar to what's available in the mid-size Mazda 6 sedan and cranks out a more-than-generous 167 horses (versus 156 in the outgoing 2.3 liter). A six-speed manual transmission comes standard with 2.5-liter engines (five-speed manual in the 2.0-liter) while a five-speed automatic is available in both trims.
The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 five-door features a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline four cylinder (with standard manual transmission) delivering 263 horses.
A five-door Sport trim with manual transmission, checks in at $19,230. A five-door Grand Touring hatchback with manual transmission checks in at $21,500. Add $800 if desiring the five-speed automatic transmission.
For ease-of transaction, most options in the five-door hatchback are available in two packages: a moonroof-Bose radio package (six-disc in-dash CD changer, one-touch moonroof, 10 speakers) for $1,395 and Tech package (navigation, satellite radio and push-start ignition) for $1,195. The moonroof package is a prerequisite to get the Tech. Sirius Satellite radio ($430 includes first six-months of free subscription) and six-disc CD changer with MP3 player ($500) are the most notable options sold separately. Add $750 for destination charge. Standard equipment in the five-door includes cruise control, air conditioning, rear defogger and power windows, locks and side mirrors (Grand Touring comes with heated side mirrors standard). Cloth seating comes standard in Sport while leather graces the Grand Touring.
Mazda supplied us with one of the most opulent Grand Touring five-doors available with both option packages, manual transmission and a bottom line of $24,760.
Exterior wise, the five-door hatchback resembles a slightly scaled down Toyota Matrix or its soon-to-be-discontinued twin, the Pontiac Vibe; which is not necessarily bad. All three have eye-catching looks considering the five doors. Remember, however, of the three, Mazda3 is the most fun to drive. In Mazda 3's front, the lower portion borrows the look of stretched black fish netting; forming a sort of Cheshire Cat grin. Elongated cat's-eye headlight housing on each side and circular Mazda winged logo adorning sloping sheet metal up front creates a "happy face." The compact Dodge/Plymouth Neons, popular in the 1990s, had the same type of "smile." Split dual exhausts give the hatch area (with standard rear wiper) a sporty touch. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels comes standard in the five-door.
Inside, the handsome instrument panel has two large, deep-set circular analog gauges (speedometer and tachometer). Positioned behind is a long, narrow, half-moon multi-information panel/screen which houses an optional, compact navigation screen. This is a departure from most set ups where the four-color Nav window takes center stage in the center column of the dash. Controls are backlit at night with bright red backlighting and just a hint of blue hues. The dash is not flat, but extends out from the corners coming to a near point in the center. Circular vents flank the sides while two square-shaped ones adorn center. Fan speed and temperatures are controlled via two large dials with blower direction changes monitored by a push button. Brushed aluminum accents are dotted across the standard black interior. Dual zone climate controls are now a staple in Mazda 3.
The glove box is decent size. The fuel release lever is on the floor left of the driver's seat. Five door hatchbacks generally minimize blind spots and Mazda3 is no exception. Front doors have large brushed aluminum grab bars making it a bit easier to close the light-weight doors. All four doors have molded cup holders. In addition, front drivers have inline cup holders in between the bucket seats and back seat riders have two more beverage catchers built into the fold down arm rest. |