Under the Hood

Mazda3 models now offer a choice of engines:  

  • Standard  148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that teams with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission
  • Optional 167-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic
  • Automatic transmission models include a clutchless-manual mode that lets the driver control gear changes by nudging the console gear selector up or down.
    See also:

    Driving Sideways and Other Assets
    As always, the MX-5 has rear-wheel drive with excellent front/rear weight distribution. At roughly 52/48 (51/49 with the hardtop), its bias is toward slight understeer, which keeps things safe. An ...

    Driving In Flooded Area
    WARNING: Dry wet brakes by driving very slowly and applying the brakes lightly until brake performance returns to normal: Driving with wet brakes is dangerous. Increased stopping distance or the ...

    Vent Operation
    Adjusting the Vents Directing airflow You can direct air flow by rotating the vent. Opening/closing vents The two outside vents can be opened and closed with center button. NOTE: When using th ...