Satisfying Drivetrain
What you get for your diminished mileage is respectable but not exceptional acceleration. Though the 2.3-liter four-cylinder (to be replaced in the 2010 by a 2.5-liter) is pretty robust, the Mazda3 is among the heavier compact cars out there, in both hatchback and sedan forms. The optional automatic transmission's five speeds aren't enough to make the larger engine super quick or efficient. The smaller engine's optional automatic is a four-speed, which remains relatively common in this class.
My car had the standard five-speed manual transmission, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The stick is within reach and is a decent height. The clutch pedal is livable from day to day without being too soft. I certainly wouldn't mind having a sixth gear, but the engine has enough torque at low rpm to allow a standing-start launch without too much clutch slippage. Overall, for an engine of its size, the 2.3-liter's power delivery is pretty even. You have to rev the Civic's wee four-banger to higher rpm to get a move-on, but the payoff is way better mileage.
See also:
Before Driving Your Mazda
Important information about driving your Mazda. ...
Convertible Top (Soft Top)
Convertible Top Precautions
WARNING:
Sit in the seat with the seat belt
correctly fastened when the vehicle is
moving:
Standing in the vehicle, or sitting on
the convertible top storage area o ...
Mazda6 2009 review
Midsize sedans have long been bought for practical reasons, such as the
commute to work or to transport a family, but with the introduction of Mazda's
redesigned Mazda6 for 2009, the Japanese auto ...


