Her and His Reviews
November 4, 2009
2010 Mazda 3 Hatchback
There are always two sides to everything, right? Well, the truth is there are many more than that!
To keep our car reviews innovative and well-rounded, we are providing you with not just one, but two points of view on the same exact vehicle –
Her and His perspectives.
Her: Anne Fleming, Car Buying Advocate,women-drivers.com
His: Chuck Kerber, Writer, AutomobileJournal.com
| Anne | Chuck |
|---|---|
| Price | |
| MSRP:$25,560 as tested | MSRP:$25,560 as tested |
| Performance | |
| 2.5L 4 cylinder engine with 167 horsepower and 6,200 RPM. 5 Speed automatic 5 door. Front wheel drive, this little powerhouse gets around nicely up and down continuous hills on urban and highways roads. | 2.5 Liter DOHC 16 Valve WT 14 Engine Producing 167 Horsepower @ 6000 RPM
5-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission Dynamic Stability Control Traction Control System Front Wheel Drive The Mazda 3 is a sheer joy to drive. Upon taking your first corner you'll realize that this "fun" car is also remarkably sophisticated and capable. Don't be fooled by the pretty red lights inside- this is a vehicle likes to be driven. The handling is spot-on; variable assist power steering adds just the right amount of support to the driver without computer-overcompensation. When you hit the gas be prepared. Although the engine is small, (4-cylinder) it still provides ample power. Merging into highway traffic is easy, and acceleration through turns is a breeze thanks to a competent engine coupled with independent front/rear suspension and stabilizer bars. |
| Fuel Economy | |
| 22 city/ 29 highway | 22 MPG City, 29 MPG Highway |
| The Car | |
| The MAZDA 3 is a blast to drive - with its performance, get up and go and overall responsiveness. Oh, and a blast to park. Zoom Zoom.
Technically inspired, attractive panel with midnight & chrome combination allowing the easy-to-read LED instrument panels to pop. Handy steering controls for hands-on driving 8 way adjustable leather trimmed comfortable seats. These heated front seats and sunroof allow for flexibility - warming up or letting the elements in. Dual-zone climate control maximizes peace Remote Keyless entry system with push button starter. Back seat - only one had integrated mag holder- why not on the rear drivers side Back seat 3 person "compact comfy" seating. Center pull down arm rest with integrated cup holders Multiple cup holder and storage bins Leather wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel ensures personalized driving experience |
The looks of the new Mazda-3 are innovative yet supple. Although the styling is far from traditional, its aggressive lines and swooping rear angles aren't too forceful.
The 17-inch alloy wheels and automatic auto-leveling Bi-Xenon headlights give the Mazda an exceedingly sporty appearance. The clear lens LED taillights provide drivers behind you with a clear warning when you have to stop suddenly-hopefully a design advance that all carmakers will adopt soon. Sporty bumpers and a bright-tipped exhaust tip add to the overall allure. The interior of the car is almost ergonomically perfect-everything fits and is easy to access, as well as operate. The leather seats are heated, and soft enough for long road trips. All of the controls are within reach and well labeled. The telescoping steering wheel is adaptable, and also adjusts vertically. Heated power mirrors with signal repeater lights provide a clear view of what's beside you, as well as adding an additional safety component. Rain-sensing wipers are helpful when you're busy multi-tasking in your car. All of the instrumentation is electroluminescent-red; very soothing. Additional radio/blue-tooth controls are situated on the steering column for convenience. The heating and cooling systems in the car work well with plenty of blowing power to reach the occupants in the rear. |
| Safety | |
| AWB system. Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control System. Front air bags & front side air bags and side curtains.
LATCH child seat safety anchors and tethers; child safety rear lock doors. Collapsible steering column |
Advanced Dual Front Air Bags
Side-Impact Air Bags and Curtain bag System Tire Pressure Monitoring and Warning System Latch Child Safety Seat Anchors "Crashable" Brake Pedal and Collapsible Steering Column 4-Wheel Disc Brakes with Anti-Lock Braking System |
| Technology | |
| SIRIUS music ensures finding your sound. CD. Bluetooth® hands free phone. Robust, crisp BOSE surround sound with 10 speakers. 6-disc CD. Two 12 volt power outlets. MP3 compatible charger. GPS with steering wheel adjustable controls. | Standard and optional equipment include:
Full-color Navigation System Advanced Keyless System with Push-Button Star 242 Watt Bose System with 10 Speaker Surround Sound Sirius Satellite Radio with free 6-Month Subscription
Perimeter Alarm In-Dash 5-Disc CD Changer with I-Pod and MP-3 Interface Blue-Tooth Hands-Free Phone and Audio |
| Aesthetics & Styling | |
|
Fluid exterior lines on this attractive compact. Honeycomb black grill enhances sport, aggressive sporty. Is that one major smiley face staring at me as I look at the car? Contoured extended headlights promote seamless design |
The 2010 Mazda-3 is a fun car to look at. What does that mean you might ask? Well, it's unlike most cars on the road. The styling is courageous and original. It's not overly assertive stylistically, but has just enough flair and style to get you noticed...just not all the time. |
| Warranty | |
| 3 year/36,000 and 5 year/ 60,000 Power train | 36-Month, 36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper
60 Month, 60,000 mile Powertrain Warranty 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program |
| Non-tangibles / Other | |
| Assembled in Japan | This is a fantastic car. I can't think of a better way to relieve the malaise of every day driving other than buying a sporty, fun Mazda-3. |
