Interior

Up to five people can fit inside the Mazda3. The steering column tilts and telescopes, and the instruments sit in a trio of round, recessed nacelles. A ratchet-type mechanism permits seat adjustment, allowing the cushion and seatback to move up and down together. Placing the rear-suspension coil springs beneath the floor increases the hatchback's rear storage space.

The s Grand Touring model includes heated leather seats, automatic headlights, automatic rain-sensing wipers and a trip computer. A moonroof, a custom-tuned Bose audio system and Sirius Satellite Radio are optional.

    See also:

    How the Air BagsWork
    How the Front Air BagsWork When air bag crash sensors detect a frontal impact of greater than moderate force, an electrical current is sent to the inflators. Gases are produced to inflate the fro ...

    Manual Transmission Operation
    Manual Transmission Shift Pattern The vehicle is equipped with either a 5- speed or 6-speed manual transmission. The shift pattern for each is shown above. Depress the clutch pedal all the way d ...

    Tire Labeling
    Federal law requires tire manufacturers to place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of the tire and ...