Vehicle Overview

The Mazda3 has been a sporty alternative for compact-car buyers since it debuted for the 2004 model year. It undergoes its first redesign for the 2010 model year and is still offered in sedan and four-door hatchback forms. The 2010 Mazda3 has all-new exterior and interior styling and is now available with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that offers more power than the four-cylinder it replaces. Competitors include the Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Nissan Sentra.

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    Under the Hood
    The 2.3-liter four-cylinder develops 156 horsepower (146 hp for PZEV-emissions-compliant models) while the 3.0-liter V-6 turns out 212 hp. Both engines can team with a five-speed manual transmissi ...

    Meters and Gauges
    (Black-out meter) When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the dashboard gauges illuminate. 1. Speedometer 2. Odometer, Trip Meter and Trip Meter Selector 3. Tachometer 4. Engine Coola ...

    After Getting In
    - Are all doors closed and locked? - Is the seat adjusted properly? - Are the inside and outside mirrors adjusted? - Is the steering wheel adjusted properly? - Is each occupant's seat belt fasten ...