Under the Hood

Mazda3 models now offer a choice of engines:  

  • Standard  148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that teams with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission
  • Optional 167-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic
  • Automatic transmission models include a clutchless-manual mode that lets the driver control gear changes by nudging the console gear selector up or down.
    See also:

    Recreational Towing
    An example of “recreational towing” is towing your vehicle behind a motorhome. The transaxle is not designed for towing this vehicle on all 4 wheels. When doing recreational towing refer to “Towi ...

    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 ...

    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, ...