2017 Mazda3
All the right stuff in just the right-size package
Honda and Chevrolet can brag all they want about their respective new Civic and Cruze hatchbacks, but as far as the Mazda3 is concerned, that news is so very yesterday.
The automaker’s small-car stalwart has been consistently dealing in hatchbacks and quasi-wagons (a.k.a. five-door models) alongside the standard sedan variant for several years, as have a number of other competing compact-class brands.
The current-generation “3” hatch and sedan arrived for the 2014 model year and are now receiving a freshening. There’s a mildly redesigned front end, including a new grille, headlight pods and running lights plus a new rear bumper for the hatchback. These subtle updates merely enhance what is arguably one of the best smallcar designs available.
For the passenger compartment, the most obvious change is an electronic parking brake for all trim levels, replacing the traditional handbrake. This allowed the designers to fit a larger floor console that complements the increased doorpanel stowage (replacing the previous space-limiting door pockets).
Mazda has also injected more cabin insulation to, as the company claims, significantly reduce the decibel level when traveling over rough roads.
Increasing driver enjoyment was a major goal in the Mazda3’s development, highlighted by G-vectoring Control (GVC). The system, which is standard, monitors steering inputs and at just the right time while cornering, while slightly reducing engine torque. That shifts a bit of weight over the front axle and preloads the steering and suspension, thus making them more responsive. Mazda says there’s more tire contact with the road and increased stability when turning and that GVC actually works best in rough or uneven conditions.
Left untouched are the Mazda3’s available engines. The starting point 2.0-litre fourcylinder produces 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. Optional is a 184-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 185 pound-feet.
Either can be harnessed to a six-speed manual transmission or available six-speed automatic. At a time when manual transmissions seem to be falling out of favour, Mazda has actually expanded availability to include stick shifts with the top-end trims, as well as the more basic models.
Of course the smaller engine is also the most thrifty, but not by much. The 2.0’s best numbers are 8.4 l/100 km in the city and 6.4 on the highway with the automatic, while the 2.5 with the same transmission is rated at 8.8/6.6.
The 2.5/automatic combo can be ordered with what Mazda calls the ieloop capacitor that stores electricity generated under braking. The system then provides power for the 3’s various electrical operations for extended periods while disengaging the alternator, which reduces drag on the engine. With it, the 2.5’s fuel-economy rating improves slightly in both the city and highway cycles. It’s up to the buyer to decide if the ieloop option is worth the extra cost.
Basic Mazda3 models ring in at $17,600 for the G sedan and $21,400 for the Sport GX hatchback. Both are decently equipped with the usual features as well as push-button start, a 17.7-centimetre touchscreen and a six-speaker audio/infotainment system with voice command.
The mid-range GS adds climate control, heated front seats with six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, rainsensing wipers and heated outside mirrors. The GS package also includes blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert that warns of rear approaching traffic in left- or right-hand lanes and when you’re backing up.
Along with the 2.5 engine, the GT comes with dual-zone climate control, automatic headlight leveling and 18-inch alloy wheels (16-inch steel wheels are standard). The GT can also be topped up with perforated-leather seats, navigation, and a number of dynamic safety items.
The sharp-looking Mazda3 already enjoys a stellar reputation as a driver’s car and the 2017 model should increase its desirability among buyers seeking more than just basic transportation.