The 2014 Mazda hatchback model is reckoned amongst one of the best in its class. The sleek look and spacious interior coupled with the most fuel-efficient SkyActiv engine, this car is a sensation to drive! Although it isn’t expected to come off the assembly line any sooner than late 2013, or early 2014; it surely has created a lot of stir amongst the folks.

Car With a Mission

Mazda3 is a good omen for the ones who’re tired of the conventional Toyota Corolla. However, Mazda can never challenge the mammoth sales of Toyota, and the reasons can be traced down to incoherent marketing campaigns launched by the latter. Nevertheless, Mazda, the Japanese car manufacturers always keep emotions and comfort of the clients in sight before introducing any model. Ever since Mazda and Ford nixed their venture, the former has stepped to make its own unique impression in the market.

A Class Apart

Having a look at the prototype model, one thing becomes clear: it will be difficult to find so many features in any C class vehicle. The latest from Mazda has everything from Bluetooth, xenon headlamps, and heated leather seats for navigation and infotainment functionality.

Upgraded Safety Features

In addition to these, the manufacturers have also equipped Mazda3 with advanced safety features, i.e. lane-keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Moreover, Mazda3 also features an exclusive Smart City Brake system.

Unbelievable Price Range

One must imagine that a C class vehicle loaded with such exclusive features may have a towering price; however, this beauty has six different variants and the price ranges from $20,795 to $26,445. Mazda 3 is a slightly upgraded model from its 2012 model, and is offered in four trim levels: V (sedan only), Sport (sedan only), Touring, and Grand Touring.

Variants

Mazda3 i Sport, Mazda3 i Touring, and Mazda3 i Grand Touring models are a real treat for drivers; they all come with the SkyActiv powertrain, which produces 148 pound-feet of torque and 155 horsepower. The aforementioned models give an impressive 28/40 mpg City/Highway. The six-speed SkyActiv powered engine is one of the most efficient engines out there.

Then there is the Mazda3 i SV base model that comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers 25/33 mpg City/Highway, using a 5-speed automatic engine. Next in line is the MazdaSpeed3 with a four-cylinder turbo charged 2.3 liter engine. This performance model has a 6-speed manual transmission, and it gives an 18/25 mpg City/Highway. Mazda 3 does 0-60 mph in sixty seconds.

Interior

The interior is comfy and spacious; all models are 5 seated, while the Mazda3 has an 11.8 cu. ft. cargo space ― a big upgrade from earlier models. The interior defines the term accessibility, as the gauges are clear, center stack is clean, and digital information can be accessed via a thumb scroll on the steering wheel. It must be noted that this is the only car in its class with standard steering controls.

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Competitors

Mazda3 is the best alternative for Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. The suspension feels more like European than Japanese, as it is way smoother. The other viable competitors for this vehicle are Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra, while the hatchback challenges Ford Focus hatch or Hyundai Elantra GT.

Overview

The looks are sleek, though a better job could have been done with the bumper, as it has a fat lip and could have survived without the sporty black air intakes; they are less functional and more cosmetic. The rear bumpers are clean and body matched, and the alloy wheels give a certain swagger to the car.

Verdict

In a nutshell, Mazda 3 is fun to drive, compact and a safe car that certainly has the capacity to mark a dent on Corolla.