2017 MAZDA MAZDA3 FIRST LOOK

2017 MAZDA MAZDA3 FIRST LOOK BY AUTO CRITIC STEVE HAMMES

Mazda says the Mazda3 is the …”standard by which compact cars are judged.”

Available in both sedan and 5-door bodystyles, the 2017 model has been completely repackaged for the purpose of providing stronger value, adding refinement, elevating design and increasing usable performance.

By providing more content at each price point, the starting MSRP of $17,645 including destination becomes more compelling.  The revised front design emphasizes visual width and stability; there are 3 new colors, and an upgraded interior with enhanced storage space, enhanced materials, increased sound suppression and redesigned look and feel.

Manual transmission lovers will welcome the 6-speed to the top-trim Mazda3 Grand Touring model and just as they did with the Mazda6, Mazda introduces their new G-Vectoring Control software system.  GVC, if you will, varies engine torque to smooth out changes in acceleration forces, reducing torso sway and making for a more comfortable ride.

Mazda says it significantly improves handling and stability, optimizing the load on each tire, reducing the need for steering corrections and bringing the movements of the car more in line with the driver’s intentions. The Sport and Touring models will now be equipped with the 2.0-liter engine and the 2.5-liter engine will now come equipped on the Touring 2.5 and Grand Touring models.

The base 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine makes 155 horsepower.  When paired with the available six-speed automatic, the Mazda3 can achieve an estimated 28 mpg city/37 mpg highway.  Models equipped with the 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission come with a Sport Mode switch as standard, which uses a more aggressive transmission mapping for spirited driving. Previously, this was only available in 2.5-liter vehicles. The 2.5-liter, four-cylinder produces 184 horsepower.

Both engines are available with a six-speed manual in addition to the automatic transmission.