The compact Mazda3 was introduced to America in the 2006 model year, after being available abroad since 2004. The Mazda3’s good gas mileage and sporting character have won it fans the world over. While highway gas mileage rankings in the low thirties for the base model have ensured success with the commuter crowd, it’s the style, handling, and lively nature that play to those looking for a bit of “zoom-zoom” in their day-to-day lives.The Mazda3 4-door “i” Model is equipped with a 2.0 liter DOHC four cylinder engine, producing 148 horsepower (HP), while the “s” Model is fitted with the larger and slightly more powerful 2.3 liter four cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 150 foot pounds of torque. The i Model delivers 24 city / 32 highway miles per gallon (MPG), while the s Model provides 22 city / 29 highway MPG.
The Mazda3 5-door “s” Model is fitted with the same 2.3 liter engine as the 4-door s Model. (Mileage estimates are identical, as well.) The i Models are equipped with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed electronically controlled automatic. The s Models are available with either the 5-speed manual or a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic.
The top-of-the-line MazdaSpeed3 5-door is unquestioningly intended for the enthusiast. The little hot rod wagon’s turbocharged Direct Injection Spark Ignition version of the 2.3 liter four cranks out a whopping 263 HP and 280 foot pounds of torque. The MazdaSpeed3 is exclusively equipped with a six speed manual transmission; an automatic is not available. Mileage estimates are 18 city / 26 highway, on premium fuel.
European Mazda3’s can also be fitted with 1.6 or 2.0 liter diesel engines, resulting in a remarkable increase in fuel efficiency over the gas-engined models.
