Mazda3 a great car that just got better for 2014
VANCOUVER —The Mazda 3 has ranked as the compactsegment leader for as long as it has been around. The 2014 model amps up the 3’s basics in all areas, which means it is destined to remain the benchmark.
The third-generation Mazda3, offered in GX, GS and GT sedan and hatch, has a sharper style, a richer content list and a full suite of Mazda’s SkyActiv technology.
The SkyActiv strategy sees all facets — engine, transmission, platform and suspension — developed simultaneously. For example, to accommodate the new header-style exhaust manifold, the firewall had to be rejigged, which, in turn, meant redesigning the HVAC system behind it.
The new Mazda3’s 30 per cent stiffer platform is also lighter thanks to extensive use of high-strength steel. This gives the suspension a great base and delightful handling — for both sedan and hatchback.
The same cannot be said of the Ford Focus and Kia Forte; in both cases, the sedans lack the crispness of the hatchbacks. This will stand Mazda in good stead with buyers, as the sedan accounts for 68 per cent of Mazda3 sales.
During the drive, I was impressed by the best-in-class feel and feedback from the steering, and the way both versions responded to input. The GT, with its P215/45R18 tires, was sharper than the GS and the P205/60R16s it wears, though both run rings around the competition.
The Mazda3 is offered with two engines and a choice of transmission. The GXand GS team a 2.0-litre, four with a six-speed manual. This engine makes 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque and works very nicely with the manual. It has ample power across the entire operating range and is a delight to shift. A six-speed automatic is optional.
The 2.5 Lengine and its 184hp and 185 lb.-ft. of torque is much quicker to respond and features a Sport mode. When engaged, the throttle’s tip-in is faster and each of the automatic’s gears is held longer, and when the mood strikes, the driver can use the GT’s paddle shifts. Sadly, the larger engine is not available with the manual transmission.
Stylistically, the new Mazda3 — sedan and hatch — is sharper looking.
If I were able to make a change, it would be to see the exposed twin tailpipes that give the hatch some sporting flare carried over to the sedan, whose tailpipes are hidden to give it a more “upscale” look.
Cabin materials are decidedly upscale and would not be out of place in a car well above Mazda3’s price point. In fact, when driving the GT I had to remind myself it was a Mazda3 and not a Mazda6, such is the quality and refinement.
The layout is sensible and driver-centric. All of the important information is presented clearly and, on the GT tested, there was a windshield head-up display that shows speed and other relevant information (direction when the nav is active).
Atop the centre stack sits a new seven-inch, stand-alone (MazdaConnect) infotainment screen. It allows access to the phone, audio settings and when equipped, navigation functions, but goes one further — the screen is both touch-sensitive and capacitive. Throw in the voice activation and Mazda Connect is one of the easiest to understand and, more importantly, use.
Both sedan and hatch deliver roomy rear seats — thanks to a 60-millimetre stretch to the wheelbase — and plenty of cargo space. The sedan has 350 litres of cargo area and features fold-flat seats that do, for once, deliver a flat floor minus the usual ridge. The hatch brings 572 litres with the seats up and 1,334 litres when folded.
There was very little wrong with the outgoing Mazda3. To many — yours truly included — it sat at the top of the compact class. The latest version — whether sedan or hatchback — is better in every respect.
The one thing I did not expect, however, was the improvement in overall refinement. Simply put, it is good enough to challenge some more expensive rides.
Pricing for the sedan ranges from $15,995 for the base GX manual and tops out at $25,855 for the GT (plus options). The hatchback adds $1,000 to all variants.