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:
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 ...
Driving Sideways and Other Assets
As always, the MX-5 has rear-wheel drive with excellent front/rear weight
distribution. At roughly 52/48 (51/49 with the hardtop), its bias is toward
slight understeer, which keeps things safe. An ...
Liftgate
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 ...


