Exterior

For 2009, designers ditched the previous design for what Mazda calls a "Japanese aesthetic" in the current car. The vehicle sports a long hood with pronounced front fender flares that flow through the headlamps and mold with the front bumper.

Exterior features include:

* Standard body-colored grille, front and rear bumpers, door handles and moldings
* 16-inch steel wheels with full covers * Optional 17-inch alloy wheels * Optional 18-inch alloy wheels * Optional LED taillamps * Single (four-cylinder models) or dual exhaust outlets (V-6 models)

    See also:

    Ignition Switch
    Ignition Switch Positions LOCK The steering wheel locks to protect against theft. Only in this position can the key be removed. Manual transaxle To turn the key from the ACC to the LOCK posit ...

    Interior
    Up to five people can fit inside the Mazda3. The steering column tilts and telescopes. Instruments sit in a trio of round, recessed nacelles. A ratchet-type mechanism permits seat adjustment allow ...

    Body Lubrication
    All moving points of the body, such as door and hood hinges and locks, should be lubricated each time the engine oil is changed. Use a nonfreezing lubricant on locks during cold weather. Make sur ...