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What's New for 2018
While the base Sport trim still boasts a 155-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the Touring model upgrades to the 188-horsepower 2.5-liter engine that was previously only found in Grand Touring models. Standard and Touring models also receive a new dark-colored aluminum wheel design; illuminated vanity mirror; and an overhead sunglasses holder is now offered as standard equipment. The top-tiered Grand Touring trim also features the optional Premium Equipment package, which includes Mazda's i-ACTIVSENSE® safety suite, high-beam headlights, lane departure warnings with lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. Emergency braking is now standard on all models.
Overview
There's just something about sumptuous styling that gets our motor revving here at Cutter Automotive Galleries, and the Mazda3 is a repeat offender when it comes to turning heads, ours included. But the Mazda3 isn't just a pleasure to stare at—its winning formula of sleek styling, a near-perfect interior, and incredible driving dynamics make it an entertaining, versatile, and classy car to drive. It's no wonder why the Mazda3 is a multi-time winner of Car and Driver's 10Best Cars award. Year after year, Mazda continues to update its award-winning compact sedan, making it clear that the Mazda3 isn't going anywhere anytime soon.
The Mazda3 is available in both sedan and hatchback styles, with one of two efficient inline engines and the choice between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Available in three trims, it has a starting MSRP of $18,095.*
The Perfect Ride for…
A daily driver. The Mazda3 is simply a blast to drive. Smooth controls and impressive driving dynamics help this model excel on winding curves and bending backroads. Add a near-premium leather interior and a timeless exterior design to the mix and you get a car that's practical, comfortable, and stylish. It succeeds—overachieves, in fact—in making driving a pleasure, and to us, that's an important virtue when it comes to deciding on the right vehicle.
Drive & Handling
The 2018 Mazda3 is powered by one of two engines, depending on the trim level selected. The base Sport's engine consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. Power is efficiently sent to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic.
The higher-trim Touring and Grand Touring models get a boost in power, courtesy of a larger 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. It too is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, the former of which is sure to please old-school driving purists.
Fuel economy is where the 2018 Mazda3 truly shines. Sedan models powered by the 2.0-liter engine return an EPA estimated 31 mpg combined (28 city/37 highway) with the automatic transmission.** When mated to the manual, sedan models earn an equally impressive 31 mpg combined (27 city/37 highway).**
EPA estimates for the 2.5-liter sit at 25 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and a remarkable 29 mpg combined when mated to the manual (in both hatchback and sedan form).** For the six-speed automatic, the 2.5-liter engine returns an estimated 30 mpg combined (27 city/36 highway).**
Key Features
9-Speaker Bose® Centerpoint® 2 Surround Sound
Driving wouldn't be the same without music. There's just something about it that we're attracted to; it's almost visceral. Whether it's rolling the windows down in the summer and cruising to your favorite tunes or enjoying instrumentals as you carve along winding, mountain roads, driving just wouldn't be the same without it. That's why the Mazda3 offers an available Bose® Centerpoint® 2 Surround Sound System. Delivering high-definition audio through nine speakers, the system offers a truly immersive listening experience. Does it get any better? Yes. The Bose® system has been fine-tuned to reproduce sound for the Mazda3's interior dimensions. You'll experience life-like sound from any seat in the house.
Performance Seats
The Mazda3 is a sporty car and it boasts sporty seats to match. They're contoured to mold to your body and offer the utmost in comfort. Available in cloth, leatherette, and dual-stitched leather, you'll be able to choose whatever style you fancy. The engineers at Mazda have also specially designed seat perforations to not only be soft and breathable, but they also absorb road noise for an enhanced music listening experience.
Alternative Options
The 2018 Mazda3 delivers when it comes to looks, fuel economy, and in-demand technologies, but it may not be for everyone. The Mazda6 is a great option for those who appreciate the aesthetic and performance of the Mazda3 but could use the added space of a mid-size sedan. It too offers sharp looks, responsive handling, and a luxurious interior, only in a bigger body. But if you're still looking for a larger vehicle, you can't go wrong with the Mazda CX-5. The compact Mazda CX-5 SUV positions itself between the smaller Mazda CX-3 and larger Mazda CX-7. Its award-winning resume includes outstanding performance, a smooth ride, an upscale cabin, and roomy, comfortable seats. It's perfect if you're in the market for a family car or a commuter with personality.
* Starting at $18,095 for 2018 Mazda3 4-Door Sport models with manual transmission. Excludes taxes, title, license fees, and $890 destination charge (Alaska $935). Actual dealer price will vary. See dealer for complete details.
** EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
Image Credit: Mazda
