Features
When you test cars for a living, it's easy to fall for them from the driver's seat. Testing a new Mercedes or even a new Toyota can be great — until you see the price. Yes, we get sticker shock, too, especially because the test cars we get are often loaded with every option.
The i Touring Plus trim is interesting because it's not offered with any options. For $23,750, you get an automatic transmission, a moonroof, a power driver's seat, 17-inch wheels, Bluetooth, a backup camera, a USB port, and a blind spot monitoring system. That's a heavy dose of features, especially the blind spot system, which can be a $1,500-plus option on other cars — and they're usually of the luxury variety.
See also:
Under the Hood
The 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the Mazda3 i has variable valve timing and
develops 148 horsepower (144 hp in PZEV form). The Mazda3 s uses a 2.3-liter
four-cylinder that pumps out 156 hp. A five-s ...
Overheating
If the temperature gauge indicates
overheating, the vehicle loses power, or
you hear a loud knocking or pinging
noise, the engine is probably too hot.
WARNING
...
The Inside
The Mazda3's cabin is another aspect that shines, especially for a car in its
fifth year on the market without an update. Again, the Cobalt didn't compare in
2005, so it still doesn't, and I rate ...


