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:
Highly rigid body
The basic development concept for the body shell of the all-new Mazda 3 was
to improve the overall balance of the body's rigidity and ensure it firmly
absorbs the reaction force of the dampers. To ...
Types of the Climate Control System
Manual type and fully automatic type climate control systems are explained
separately.
Check your vehicle's climate control type and read the appropriate pages.
Manual Type
Fully Automatic Ty ...
Exterior Care
Follow all label and container directions
when using a chemical cleaner or polish.
Read all warnings and cautions.
Maintaining the Finish
Washing
CAUTION:
When the wiper lever is in the AUTO
po ...