After adding another candle to an already overloaded birthday cake early this week, I’m especially delighted to still be able to sit up, take nourishment, and enjoy the “Zoom-Zoom” spirit that my drive of the 2010 Mazda3 offered.
Madza completely reengineered and restyled the already-successful sporty compact sedan to deliver improved appearance and performance, fresh features, and a new level of refinement in its second generation Mazda3. The first generation introduced in 2004 has already rocked the world for Mazda because one out of every three Mazdas sold worldwide is a Mazda3. And it’s no wonder so many Mazda3s are spotted around town because the Mazda3 represented 44 percent of Mazda North American sales volume with its first generation version.
The Mazda3’s new face begins with a happy-face grille, flared front fenders and a sculpted hood that help make the sporty sedan a leader in aero performance. Flat underbody panels and small deflectors located near the front tires also minimize drag coefficient. Mazda had given great attention to maximize fuel economy while hushing the wind noise. The quiet drive and excellent fuel economy make the Mazda 3 even more appealing.
Two engines are offered – a 2.0-liter with 16-valve 4-cylinder with variable timing rated at 148 hp and 135 lb.-ft. of torque, and a 2.5-liter 16-valve 4-cylinder with variable timing that produces 167 hp and 168 lb.-ft. of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard with the smaller powerplant, while a six-speed is standard with the larger. A five-speed sport automatic is available with either.
I drove the 2.0-liter, which is called the “i trim” with the five-speed sport automatic transmission. The Mazda3i was exhilarating to drive and I’ll admit I was impressed with the ability of the small sporty sedan to handle curves and hill climbing. I, however, would pick the standard transmission for this vehicle. Combined city and highway mileage during my drive was 30 mpg.
Inside the Mazda3 is comfortable seating up front that has been improved for 2010 by extending the seat cushion for thigh support and the seatback cushion has had 1.4 inches added for shoulder support. The rear seating is definitely for small people or short trips. The new instrument panel is perfectly illuminated and all controls are easily accessible. A Bose sound system enhances the drive.
Priced between $15,045 for the base model and $21,500 for Mazda3’s Grand Touring model, the Mazda3i Touring that I drove is $17,500.
Even though I do not fit the profile of a Mazda3 driver – due to my advanced years – I can certainly appreciate the appeal of the vehicle. It is fun to drive, affordable to purchase, and economical at the fuel pump. Expect to see even more Mazda3s on the road!
