Under the Hood
Mazda3 models now offer a choice of engines:
- Standard 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that teams with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission
- Optional 167-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic
- Automatic transmission models include a clutchless-manual mode that lets the driver control gear changes by nudging the console gear selector up or down.
See also:
Hazardous Driving
WARNING:
Be extremely careful if it is necessary to
downshift on slippery surfaces:
Downshifting into lower gear while
driving on slippery surfaces is
dangerous. The sudden change in tire
speed ...
Concentrated
Mazda pursued a concentrated, taut form for the body as a virtue in itself, not to simply reduce the car's body size. This creative background was advantageous in efforts to achieve maximum dynamic ...
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, ...