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:

    Light Bulbs
    LED type LED type * Some models. WARNING. Do not replace the xenon fusion bulbs yourself: Replacing the xenon fusion bulbs yourself is dangerous. Because the xenon fusion bulbs require hig ...

    Scheduled Maintenance (USA, Canada, and Puerto Rico)
    Follow Schedule 1 if the vehicle is operated mainly where none of the following conditions apply. - Repeated short-distance driving. - Driving in dusty conditions. - Driving with extended use of ...

    Horn
    To sound the horn, press the mark on the steering wheel. ...