Features
When you test cars for a living, it's easy to fall for them from the driver's seat. Testing a new Mercedes or even a new Toyota can be great — until you see the price. Yes, we get sticker shock, too, especially because the test cars we get are often loaded with every option.
The i Touring Plus trim is interesting because it's not offered with any options. For $23,750, you get an automatic transmission, a moonroof, a power driver's seat, 17-inch wheels, Bluetooth, a backup camera, a USB port, and a blind spot monitoring system. That's a heavy dose of features, especially the blind spot system, which can be a $1,500-plus option on other cars — and they're usually of the luxury variety.
See also:
Before Getting In
- Be sure the windows, outside mirrors,
and outside lights are clean.
- Inspect inflation pressures and
condition of tires.
- Look under the vehicle for any sign of
fluid leaks.
- If you plan to ...
Sunvisors
When you need a sunvisor, lower it for
use in front.
Vanity Mirrors
To use the vanity mirror, lower the
sunvisor. ...
The Inside
The Mazda3's cabin is another aspect that shines, especially for a car in its
fifth year on the market without an update. Again, the Cobalt didn't compare in
2005, so it still doesn't, and I rate ...


