Mazda3 PROS and CONS
Pros:
- Fuel-Efficient
- Great throttle response
- Automatic with Sports mode
Cons:
- No rear AC vents
- Legroom is a bit cramped
- For the Philippine Market, it only comes in gasoline
Mazda 3 is the compact car to beat - Summary of Vehicle
Mazda has been gaining popularity with car buyers and car owners in the Philippines and other parts of the world. In fact, Mazda had a sales increase of 28% in 2017 compared to its previous year. Mazda Motor Corporation is a Japanese automobile manufacturer that has ranked as the 15th largest car manufacturer all over the globe.
The increase in Mazda's sales may be attributed to its new Mazda 3 model. The Mazda 3 is a compact car that is not only stylish and good to look at, but also comfortable to drive. Mazda has sold over 5,000 units in 2017 and has become the Philippines bestselling car of the same year. The new Mazda3 model appeals to the sedan and hatchback lovers because the Mazda 3 comes-in in both variants. The appeal for the Mazda 3 is because it was designed to be handled and driven smoothly. It is also ergonomic and fuel-efficient, the Mazda3 has a recorded return of 30/41 MPG.
A compact car packed with power - Features of vehicle/specs of the vehicle
The new Mazda 3 model comes in 4 variants, car buyers can choose from the 2.0L Premium Sportback, the 1.5L Elite Sportback, the 2.0L Premium Sedan, and the 1.5L Elite Sedan. All variants have 4 cylinders and 16 valves, they all run on gasoline. All four Mazda 3 variants are Four Wheel Drive (FWD) and have a 6-speed automatic transmission with Sports mode. Sports mode means this compact car has a better throttle response. When it comes to power the Mazda 3 is suitable for city driving with the Premium variants having 152 horsepower over 6000 revolutions per minute. The Elite variant has 109 horsepower over 6000 revolutions per minute, still a decent number. The Mazda3 Premium variants have a max torque of 200 and the Elite variants have a 146nm over 3500rpm. The Mazda 3 has a fuel capacity of 51 liters, that is across all variants. The engine under the hood of the Mazda3 is their own developed Skyactiv-G, known to increase fuel efficiency and power output.
The latest model of the Mazda 3 has a Wheel and Tyre measurement of R18 diameter, with a width of 215 and an aspect ratio of 45 for the Premium variants and R16 diameter, with a width of 205 and same aspect ratio for the elite variants. The new Mazda3 also comes in with the standard safety features every car need. It has the standard airbags for the driver and front passengers. The new Mazda3 also comes with side, curtain, and knee airbags. The Premium Variants of the new model Mazda3 comes equipped with Lane Departure Warning System, Blind Spot Detection, and Front Parking Sensor, it is a worthy add on for added safety and for added confidence in driving as well. All variants of the new Mazda3 comes with Security Alarm, Electronic Door Locks, Child Seat Anchor, and has keyless entry. The Mazda3 is a powerful car but it does not have Hill Start Assist, so the terrain and road should be considered when taking this car.
How does the Mazda3 look like?
The new Mazda3 has a smooth and sleek design. It is not overly complicated with accents and lines that do not serve a purpose. It is designed to be simple and elegant. The finish of the exterior gives a luxury vibe when hit by light. The Premium variant of the Mazda 3 has LED headlights and tail lights. It is a compact car that is 4660mm in length, 1795mm in width, and has a wheelbase of 2725mm. There is a difference in height when it comes to the Sportback and Sedan. The Sportback stands at 1435 and the Sedan at 1440mm. Otherwise, the exterior is made with the same concept design simple, stylish, and sleek.
The interior of Mazda3 mirrors its exterior, it is polished and stylish as well. It does have some plastic materials, but they are well designed to be unnoticeable. The Premium variant has a red leather covering while the other variants' interior is black but is broken by chrome accents. The pane, steering wheel, and other noticeable areas are covered with leather. The dome light of the Mazda3 is LED and adds a dramatic effect. The speaker has an aluminum finish which adds to its style. Speaking of speakers, the Premium variant of the Mazda3 is a 12-BOSE speaker. All variants of the new the Mazda3 comes with Mazda Connect as infotainment. The Premium Sportback variant has a touch screen LCD monitor while the other 3 variants have an LCD monitor. The new Mazda3 is also Apple carplay ready. You can also connect your smart devices through the infotainment. You can drive and enjoy music or ask Siri or navigate by accessing the infotainment tablet situated near the steering wheel. Some variants of the Mazda3 infotainment are not a touchscreen, but there is a knob in-between the passenger seat and the driver seat to control the infotainment. You and your passengers can enjoy the ride even when there is bad traffic by connecting through Bluetooth, USB, and smart mirroring.
There are some drawbacks when it comes to legroom at the rear passenger seat. It may be a bit cramped for your knees and feet. The headroom is okay for an average height passenger. The back seat also has no AC vent.
Other features of the new Mazda3 include; Power Steering, Power Windows, Power Outlet, and Steering Wheel Audio Control. Sun-roof is available for the Premium Sportback, Elite Sportback, and Premium Sedan. Electric Adjustable Seats are only available for the Premium variants of the new Mazda3. The Sedan has 419 liters of storage at the back and the hatchback has 364 liters. There is enough storage for a small haul but if needed, the back-passenger seat can be folded flat.
Should you consider buying the new Mazda3?
In conclusion, the Mazda3 is a powerful and sleek car. It may be a bit cramped for the rear passengers but keep in mind that the Mazda3 is a compact car. So, if you or any of your daily passengers are more than 6 feet tall maybe you need to reconsider. If we are talking about the design, fuel efficiency, and smooth driving, the Mazda3 should be on top of your list. The Mazda 3 sells for Php 1,295,000 to Php 1,510,000 in the Philippines.
