Vehicle Overview

Mazda's larger, more powerful replacements for the departed Protege sedan and Protege5 hatchback went on sale in the 2004 model year. Built on the same platform as the Volvo S40, the compact, front-wheel-drive Mazda3 displayed entirely different styling. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine goes into the Mazda3 i sedan, while the Mazda3 s sedan and hatchback hold a more powerful 2.3-liter four-cylinder. Competitors include the Honda Civic and Volkswagen Jetta.

The Mazda3 received minor modifications for the 2007 model year. The front bumper was redesigned and fitted with square fog lamps, and the 16- and 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels also got a new look. The audio system has a standard auxiliary audio input for MP3 players. Both the sedan and hatchback have rear armrests with cupholders, and the i sedan has zebra-striped wood-finish dash trim. For 2008, s Sport models have standard side-impact and side curtain airbags.

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    Cruise Control
    With cruise control, you can set and automatically maintain any speed of more than about 32 km/h (20 mph). WARNING: Do not use the cruise control under the following conditions: Using the cruise ...

    Seats
    WARNING: Do not modify or replace the front seats: Modifying or replacing the front seats such as replacing the upholstery or loosening any bolts is dangerous. The front seats contain air bag c ...

    Sunvisors
    When you need a sunvisor, lower it for use in front. Vanity Mirrors To use the vanity mirror, lower the sunvisor. ...