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, but it will satisfy most drivers. That engine is generally quiet, but it emits a fair amount of blare when pushed. With an easy-shifting manual gearbox and a well-behaved clutch, even the Mazda3 i with the smaller engine feels more spirited than an upper-level model with the automatic.

Although the front seats are nicely shaped, their seatbacks are on the hard side. Rear legroom is limited, but foot space is good. Headroom is average in the rear but meager in the center position. Visibility is good. The Mazda3 instruments are difficult to see on dark days but are lit nicely at night.

    See also:

    Safety
    Standard features include antilock brakes, side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. An electronic stability system is standard on the iTourin ...

    Introduction
    Be extremely careful and prevent injury to yourself and others or damage to your vehicle when using this manual for inspection and maintenance. If you're unsure about any procedure it describes, w ...

    Exterior Design
    The Mazda MX-5 facelift expresses Mazda's next-generation design DNA, while retaining the friendly appeal the roadster is known for. A single front fascia bumper is introduced that is more aggress ...