About a month ago, Mazda launched the all-new Mazda 3 and like its predecessors, the vehicle arrived in two different styles- sports wagon and compact sedan. Despite that fact, the Mazda 3 is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor.
There is no wrong with the Mazda 3’s design. In fact, it looks so much better now thanks to the bigger measurements. The sports wagon, for example, has better proportions thanks to the cabin which is pushed back further behind.
The Mazda 3 came with three different trims and they are GX, GS and GT. Under the hood, one might think that it is the same set of SkyActiv engines but actually, they are improved mills from the previous versions.
The GX and GS are powered by the same 2L 4-cylinder mills that produce 155hp and 150ft-lbs of torque. This particular engine is mated to a 6-spped automatic transmission with an options for a –speed manual. The top of the line GT model is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder SkyActiv engine that offers 184hp and 185lb-fts of torque. Unfortunately this variant is only offered with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
This is the problem with the Mazda 3. As great as the vehicle is, there is a lot of limitations to it. The GT should at least have a manual transmission option.
Inside the cabin, the Mazda 3 exhibits one of the best comforts in its class. Everything is built with premium materials and they gauges are positioned in a neat manner. The seats and dashboard are all finished in leather. The overall interior Mazda 3 can be compared to luxury compact sedans like the Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4.
Driving the Mazda 3 is a splendid experience as it the vehicle feels superlight yet remains solid on the road. Furthermore, it is able to take on the turns swiftly and with ease. Mazda did a splendid job in ensuring that body rolls are kept to the minimum.
All in all, the new Mazda 3 can be said as something identical to its predecessor. On the figure, the car is obviously an improvement from the previous model. Of course, it could have been better if the Mazda offered more variety with the Mazda 3.
