The redesign of the Mazda3 hatchback was partly about ensuring ride comfort. One has to admit, this 5-door iteration of the Mazda3 sedan is a great looking vehicle. Our test car came in Soulful Red metallic (an extra $300); a real stunner teamed with cream-color perforated leather-trimmed sport seats.
The Mazda3 cabin is equipped with several new advanced features, choices of trim levels and some slight body panel changes.
The base engine in the Mazda3 is 2.0-liter, 155 horsepower, with an optional 2.5-liter with 185 horsepower. Our Grand Touring model came equipped with the 2.5-liter and we can’t imagine anything less powerful.
Fuel economy was over the reported 31 mpg. by a little, but impressive. Our driving included mostly around town, with a few short highway driving trips. The liftback is smooth and agile, and makes one think, if ever so slightly, that they might be driving the MX5 Miata.
We found the navigation system to be a tad annoying. Most often this writer can figure out the way each system works, and they are somewhat different in operation. The one in the Mazda3 was not as easily operated as some.
One other complaint is the road noise. I found myself reaching over to the driver’s side window several times thinking the window was ajar. Not so. It’s just that you can hear the road more than expected.
All-in-all, though, we really enjoyed our time in the Mazda3 liftback. A versatile wagon, we found the 2.5-liter, 4-banger adequate for most driving conditions, appreciated the fuel economy and resonated with its agility and sportiness.
One of the best all-around compact cars/hatchbacks, the Mazda3 gets a ‘5’ in crash test scores, offers fairly quick acceleration and probably rides a little softer on the 16-inch standard tires. The 18-inch tires, however, provide better handling.
Our test Grand Touring model came equipped with the 18-inch tires making for a little more of a choppy ride. We preferred them though, and would probably go for that option if ordering.
Trim levels include the 3i Sport trim, which is now the base model. The SV has been dropped, and the 3i Touring and Grand Touring and 3S Touring and Grand Touring added. Transmission choices include the standard six-speed manual and optional six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. A manual transmission is no longer available on the Sport trim level.
Optional equipment on our Mazda3 S Grand Touring included cargo mat ($70), cargo net ($60), Soul Red Metallic paint ($300), Mazda mobile start ($550), door scuff plates/door sill trim plates ($125), rear bumper guard ($100), and appearance package (front air dam, door mirror caps, rear hatch spoiler, $1,750).
This newly designed 2016 Mazda3 hatchback is a looker, fun to drive and so Mazda-ish. We really enjoyed driving the Grand Touring edition and at a little over $30,000 would definitely consider it when thinking about a practical purchase.
More features have been added to the 2016 Mazda3. For one, a rearview camera, automatic headlights, automatic wipers and a sunroof are standard trim on the Sport trim level.
Competition for the Mazda3 hatchback includes the 2016 Ford Focus, 2016 Kia Forte and 2016 Honda Civic.
SPECS
MSRP: $26,495; total vehicle price $30,270; destination $820
Engine: 2.5-liter, DOHC 4-cylinder, SKYACTIV, 185 horsepower
Transmission: six-speed automatic, SKYACTIV, sport-mode, paddle shifters
Wheelbase: 106.3 in.
Length: 175.6 in.
Width: 70.7 in.
Height: 57. 3in.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 in.
EPA Fuel Economy: 29/40 mpg.
Tires: P215/45 R18 all-season
Wheels: 18-inch alloy
Curb weight: 2,865 lbs.
Warranty: 3 yr./36,000-mile Basic; 3 yr/36,000-mile roadside assistance; 5 yr/60,000-mile Drivetrain
Style: 5-door hatchback (sedan also available)
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