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:
Going & Stopping
Mazda reportedly may offer a more fuel-efficient, normally aspirated
four-cylinder engine in the CX-7 down the line, but until then, the only
available drivetrain is a 244-horsepower, turbocharged ...
Lighting Control
Headlights
Type A (Without AUTO position)
Turn the headlight switch to turn the
headlights, other exterior lights and
dashboard illumination on or off.
NOTE:
- If the light switch is left on ...
SeatWarmer
The driver and passenger seats can be
warmed by rotating the applicable seat
warmer dial while the ignition is switched
ON.
The seat temperature increases as the
number on the dial increases. W ...


