Interior Design
The facelift interior has undergone a further refinement in materials for a higher quality feel. These include new chrome detailing with piano-black panelling, and chrome plating is newly added to knobs and switches that passengers use on a daily basis - for the climate control and audio dials, parking brake knob and the inner door handles. New piano-black is introduced for the audio and climate control panelling, the centre stack frame, around the shift gate and for the panel containing the steering wheel buttons.
There is also new surface finishing on all decorative panels - matte-silver coating for the standard model, and a silver-hairline finish in full-gloss look for the Sports Grade model. Completing the facelift interior updates are new line patterns in the upholstery of the seats, and newly-available brown leather for those looking for a premium feel.
See also:
Manual Transaxle Operation
Manual Transaxle Shift Pattern
The vehicle is equipped with either a 5-
speed or 6-speed manual transaxle. The
shift pattern for each is shown above.
Depress the clutch pedal all the way down
w ...
Traction Control System (TCS)
* Some models.
The Traction Control System (TCS)
enhances traction and safety by
controlling engine torque and braking*.
When the TCS detects driving wheel
slippage, it lowers engine torque and
...
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, ...


