Driving Impressions
The easy-to-drive Mazda3 handles more adeptly than most rivals. The automatic transmission delivers quick, smooth responses. Performance with the larger engine falls short of some sporty compacts, but it will satisfy most drivers. That engine is generally quiet, but it emits a fair amount of blare when pushed. With an easy-shifting manual gearbox and a well-behaved clutch, even the Mazda3 i with the smaller engine feels more spirited than an upper-level model with the automatic.
Although the front seats are nicely shaped, their seatbacks are on the hard side. Rear legroom is limited, but foot space is good. Headroom is average in the rear but meager in the center position. Visibility is good. The Mazda3 instruments are difficult to see on dark days but are lit nicely at night.
See also:
Battery
WARNING:
Wash hands after handling the battery and related accessories:
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds,
chemicals known to the State of Californi ...
Interior design - sophisticated, sporty, and high quality
Inside the all-new Mazda 3 is a sporty yet highly refined cabin. The
dashboard sweeps out from the center toward both sides with dynamic flair as
though it is flexing powerful muscles. The large c ...
Safety
Standard features include antilock brakes, side-impact airbags for the front
seats, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. An electronic
stability system is standard on the iTourin ...


