Interior space is above average among compact sedans; front-seat accommodations are beyond reproach. As for rear-seat legroom, though, the published measurements are deceiving. The rear doors open far behind the footwells, so climbing in is fairly easy, but getting out isn't.
Unfortunately, trunk space in the Mazda3 sedan isn't as great. With a volume of 335 litres, it's fractionally smaller than those of the Civic and Toyota Corolla, and significantly smaller than in the Suzuki SX4, Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra. To make matters worse, the short deck means a small trunk opening, so bigger objects which would normally fit in the trunk can't.
Lively chassis
GX and GS models are equipped with a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 148 hp and 135 lb.-ft of torque. Connected to the optional 5-speed automatic gearbox, the Mazda3 scoots to 100 km/h in 9.9 seconds and dashes through a quarter mile in 17.1 seconds at 133 km/h.
That's a bit slower than the new Civic, and we assume that part of the blame is the relaxed throttle response at launch; probably for fuel economy purposes. The GX definitely feels lethargic off the line.
Speaking of fuel economy, our tester (with the 2.0L engine) obtained a better result than the 3 Sport GS we drove several months ago. Our average of 8.0L/100km is more than respectable. At 100 km/h the engine spins at 2,100 rpm, which helps.
Once you get up to speed, the Mazda3 rewards its driver with sharp reflexes and a composed and lively chassis, as well as a fun-to-drive attitude. Drive a Civic, a Corolla and a Mazda3 back-to-back, and you'll immediately notice which one is the most engaging behind the wheel.
What about SKYACTIV?
If you've been reading recent news about the Mazda3, you're probably aware that new powertrains will be added in the next couple of years. This fall, the 2012 Mazda3 will offer a SKYACTIV 2.0-litre engine that will benefit from much improved fuel economy. Should you hold off your purchase for the 2012 model? It depends.
Unfortunately, trunk space in the Mazda3 sedan isn't as great. With a volume of 335 litres, it's fractionally smaller than those of the Civic and Toyota Corolla, and significantly smaller than in the Suzuki SX4, Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra. To make matters worse, the short deck means a small trunk opening, so bigger objects which would normally fit in the trunk can't.
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| The 2.0-litre engine develops 148 horsepower and 135 lb.-ft of torque. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
Lively chassis
GX and GS models are equipped with a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 148 hp and 135 lb.-ft of torque. Connected to the optional 5-speed automatic gearbox, the Mazda3 scoots to 100 km/h in 9.9 seconds and dashes through a quarter mile in 17.1 seconds at 133 km/h.
That's a bit slower than the new Civic, and we assume that part of the blame is the relaxed throttle response at launch; probably for fuel economy purposes. The GX definitely feels lethargic off the line.
Speaking of fuel economy, our tester (with the 2.0L engine) obtained a better result than the 3 Sport GS we drove several months ago. Our average of 8.0L/100km is more than respectable. At 100 km/h the engine spins at 2,100 rpm, which helps.
Once you get up to speed, the Mazda3 rewards its driver with sharp reflexes and a composed and lively chassis, as well as a fun-to-drive attitude. Drive a Civic, a Corolla and a Mazda3 back-to-back, and you'll immediately notice which one is the most engaging behind the wheel.
What about SKYACTIV?
If you've been reading recent news about the Mazda3, you're probably aware that new powertrains will be added in the next couple of years. This fall, the 2012 Mazda3 will offer a SKYACTIV 2.0-litre engine that will benefit from much improved fuel economy. Should you hold off your purchase for the 2012 model? It depends.
 |
| The Mazda3 is more engaging to drive than its main rivals the Civic and Corolla. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |