2010 Mazda MAZDA3 First Drive

Drive Time drives and gives a full review to the 2010 Mazda MAZDA3 Review

2010 Mazda MAZDA3 Review The all new 2010 Mazda3 comes in three distinct flavors. Two of which I had already driven prior to this S four-door sport. I first came to know and loved the five-door model over a year ago and then I had a blast whipping the Mazdaspeed3 around Laguna Seca. So by the time this tester rolled in, the MAZDA 3 felt as comfortable as an old friend. The S models come with the upgraded 2.5 liter engine, making 167 horsepower. This is the same pleasingly powerful and efficient engine I had tested in the five-door. But this time, I was letting the five-speed auto work the gear changes. This adaptive unit which can be shifted manually downshifts at all the right moments making full use of the four-cylinder surprising eagerness and lending to the three sporty driving feel. As a bonus, the auto also nets better gas mileage rated at 22 mpg city and 29 highway. The Mazda3 s Sport resides one slot down from the top trim grand touring model and is priced from $20,590.00 when equipped with the automatic. My car also daunts the extra charge pearl paint, Sirius sat radio and moonroof, BOSE stereo package for a total of $22,615.00. And for the money, you can't beat the Mazda3 no matter which model you choose. If I had to buy one reasonably priced car that delivers a numerous fronts, the Mazda3 would be it. Now I do prefer the five-door model for its added style and utility, but the four-door plays the sports compact role extremely well for those who prefer a more conservative appearance. It's roomy, so the rear seats can happily accommodate adults. The décor is simple yet quality driven and well stocked with features and there's a large stunk with a pass-through to the rear. As I've mentioned in the past, the stereo controls could use a redo for more intuitive use and the small info screen with its steering wheel mounted controls might irritate some, though that part I kind of like. Allow me to keep your hands on the wheel. Quick and nimble with excellent steering feel, beautifully serving the driver and family members alike, the Mazda3 is a fuel efficient wholly satisfying car without the sticker shock. For Drive Time on Yahoo! Autos, I'm Steve Hammes.