Test complete: Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback
The Mazda3 has been one of our top-scoring small cars for several years, distinguished by agile handling and a high-quality, well-laid-out interior. The freshened 2010 model brought modest changes, including transmission upgrades and a new 168-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for higher-level models. The 2.0-liter got an optional five-speed automatic and the 2.5-liter now has either the five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. Stability control is standard on all but the lowest two trim lines of the sedan.
We tested three Mazda3s: a pair of 2.0-liter Touring sedans—an automatic and a manual—and a Sport hatchback with its standard 2.5-liter. Prices ranged from $18,170 for the stick-shift sedan to $20,700 for the Sport hatchback.
While the Mazda3 rated well, it doesn’t quite take the top spot. The Hyundai Elantra is quieter; the Toyota Corolla gets better fuel economy; and most small cars these days have more room for rear-seat passengers.
Where the Mazda3 stands out from the pack is how it feels to drive. The 3 is almost like a good sports car, especially when equipped with one of the slick-shifting manuals. In fact, it’s vastly more fun to drive than some traditional “sporty cars” like the Scion tC or the Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Learn more about the Mazda3 line, with road tests, pricing, and more, in the model overview (available to online subscribers).
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Posted by: JIMI | Jul 27, 2009 3:35:04 PM
I love hatchbacks, but the re-design was terrible: now the body looks bloated and nearly indistinguishable from a Matrix. If I had the money right now, I'd actually go for a used 2009 rather be seen driving this thing.
Posted by: Ash | Jul 27, 2009 10:47:31 PM
Well the new 2010 Mazda 3 is so popular it has been Mazda Japan's Largest pre-order model in their History.
Record sales in Australia and Europe.
In reality (rather than pictures) the car looks actually great...like ALL Mazda Models.
It appears people like the look of "Happy" cars and want to own them, and so what is really wrong with that.
Would you rather own the "sad" and IMO ugly look of the 370Z, the Whale look of the GTR or Audi's, the tadpole look of Jaguars.
CARS are not Biological living things, why we align them with "animal matter" is amusing...
Kudos to Mazda for designing FUN to drive and own cars, cars that really move you, cars that actually handle, cars that actually last longer than 3 years before they fall apart.