A sporty cockpit that improves functional beauty

The new "zone layout" approach focuses on improving visibility and more intuitive controls which provide "a sense of the car and driver as one" and "a reassuring sense of confidence that frees the driver to concentrate on driving." First, the Mazda 3 development team integrated the information display and positioned it towards the front in the optimal "zone." This placed the information necessary while driving where it can be seen with the least amount of eye movement. Next, the engineers placed all the controls and switches within a single "zone" closer to the driver's hands. Designing the cockpit with controls and information display in separate zones frees the driver to concentrate on driving.

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    Ignition Switch
    Auxiliary key (with advanced key) NOTE: When starting the engine using the advanced key, refer to Starting the Engine. When starting the engine with the auxiliary key, perform the following proc ...

    Lighter
    The ignition switch must be in the ACC or ON position Press the lighter in and release it. When ready for use, it automatically pops out. CAUTION: Don't touch the metal part of the lighter, y ...

    Liftgate (5 Door)
    WARNING: Never allow a person to ride in the luggage compartment: Allowing a person to ride in the luggage compartment is dangerous. The person in the luggage compartment could be seriously inj ...