Exterior

The 2007 redesign was as substantial as the 1999 reworking, which did away with the pop-up headlights in favor of fixed units and a more curvaceous body. The current generation retains the fixed headlights but returns somewhat to the original shape, with fewer curves — except for the accentuated wheel arches that recall the Mazda RX-8.

The folding soft-top incorporates a Z-fold design that uses a single, centrally positioned latch handle. The top fits flush in its lowered position, so a detachable boot cover isn't necessary. Standard wheels measure 16 inches in diameter, but 17-inchers are available.

    See also:

    Break-In Period
    No special break-in is necessary, but a few precautions in the first 1,000 km (600 miles) may add to the performance, economy, and life of your Mazda. - Don't race the engine. - Don't maintain on ...

    Operating Tips for Audio System
    WARNING: Do not adjust the audio control switches while driving the vehicle: Adjusting the audio while driving the vehicle is dangerous as it could distract your attention from the vehicle opera ...

    Design: inheriting the Mazda 3's established identity while making it more expressive
    The design concept for the new Mazda 3 was "remaining faithful to an inherited identity while evolving the design to make it more expressive." While retaining some of the original model' ...