2014 / 2015 Mazda Mazda3 Review and Road Test
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- Опубліковано 24 вер 2013
- Latest Mazda3 video: • 2014 Mazda Mazda3 5 Do...
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The mainstream compact car segment is the perfect example of the infamous "driving appliance." The Corolla and Civic sell in enormous volume because they are the middle-of-the-road "white bread" option, not in-spite of the vanilla. Unlike many in the automotive press, I don't find anything wrong with that. In fact, I love me some Wonder Bread. But sometimes you feel like a pumpernickel, and that's where the 2014 Mazda3 comes in. Mazda was so excited about their new loaf that they invited me to spend the day with them in San Diego. Want to know if you should spend 5+ years with one?
Accounting for 30% of Mazda's worldwide volume, calling the Mazda3 their most important product would be putting things lightly. As a result 2014 brings a complete overhaul to every aspect of the 3 and the compact sedan now rides on a platform derived from the larger 6. The "Kodo" design language of the larger sedan has also been brought down to its smaller stablemate to astonishing effect. While the old Mazda3 was all smiles and bubbles, the new 3 is all grown up and aggressive with Mazda's incredibly attractive grille. Before the 3′s release I was quite torn about who was the fairest of them all but now there is no contest.
The base engine for 2014 is a 2.0L 155 horse four-cylinder that's good for 150 lb-ft of twist and 30/41/34 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) with the 6-speed automatic. If you have the cash you can upgrade to the 2.5L engine (shared with the CX-5 and Mazda6) which bumps these numbers up to 184 horses and 185 lb-ft while dropping fuel economy to 28/39/32.
With pricing that ranges from $16,945 (sedan) to a hair under $30,000 (loaded hatch) if you check all the option boxes on a Mazda3 hatch, it's obvious the Mazda spans the price spectrum from white bread in a bag to a paper-wrapped organic artisan cheesy sourdough. Like the Ford Focus, this large price span means the $19,495 iSport and $20,645 iTouring compete with the bulk of Corolla/Civic shoppers while the upper level trims compete with the Ford Focus, Acura ILX, Lexus CT200h, Buick Verano, and the few that shopped Volvo's defunct C30.
Compared to the Civic and Corolla, the Mazda3 delivers superior dynamics and more premium dash materials in exchange for less tech and no touchscreen infotainment. This is a dangerous trade in a segment known for placing features before fun. On the flip side, the Mazda3 has everything it needs to compete with the Focus, ILX, Verano and CT200h. Mazda's chassis tuning makes the Mazda the most fun to drive (even considering the ILX 2.4′s Civic Si roots), the infotainment system is entry-level luxury worthy and 2014 brings all full-speed range radar cruise control and ever gadget the Buick and Lexus shopper could want. So is the Mazda3 the perfect pumpernickel for Wonder Bread prices? As good as. Civirolla shoppers who can be convinced to cross-shop will be pleased with Mazda's sexy exterior, comfortable seats and road manners, but those after large seats and large trunks will return to the white bread alternative. I suspect the near luxury shoppers are the ones that will miss out the most however thinking that nothing this tasty could come in a package with a Mazda logo on it. Their loss.
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I bought a 3rd gen back in 2014 and still loving it. It hasn't aged a bit and still stands out. It had decent power with the 2.0L and averaging 35.5mpg.
Hands down the best review I've seen so far on this car. Your detailed and comparison-oriented review helped me in deciding on getting this car. Thank you!
Nothing beats this, not even the Acura ilx or the Buick verano. This is the best of its class
well it is a very nice car and the performance is probably best in class, but that back seat space is very small compare to the other cars in the segment. I will probably choose a Ford Focus or Hyundai Elantra GT
jorge romani I admit the elantra has the best interior for the price
jorge romani I recently test drove the focus and this GT. The focus' back seat is atrociously tiny. Not sure about the Elantra.
For Sure!!!!
getting the 2014 tc :D
This is the best Mazda3 review I have found to-date. Test driven the car few days ago, and totally in love!
I recently purchased a Mazda 3 i Sport, and I love it! I don't have a ton of options, but I have what I need. I naturally went for the stick shift, and have no problems averaging 31-39 mpg. This is the first car I've had in years that makes me really want to go out and drive.
This is one of the best if not the best auto reviews I have seen on youtube. Excellent format and presentation.
Great Review. I've watched dozens of reviews on youtube and this is the best. Super thorough. Answered all my questions. Got a sub!
Probably the best 2014 Mazda3 review right now. Great job! Especially on the infotainment section!
Congratulations. The video was extremely detailed, even down to the seldom mentioned suspension design. Explaining some more detail about the 13:1 engine might have been interesting as it is a bit unique. Overall I was really impressed with the detail with regards to the transmission and what make it special. Thanks
When it comes to auto reviews, you totally rock!
Alex. you probably make the best car review vids on the net. Its also great that you are knowledgeable on car mechanics and can offer informative tidbits in your reviews
Alex, another amazing review. You are so thorough in your coverage and your presentation style is both approachable and professional. Kudos to you. As for the Mazda3, I'm seriously crushing on this car!
Great review as always. Alex, your hard work is much appreciated.
Thank you very very much for the hard work, you car reviews are still the best on the internet (by a big margin), and you even continue to make improvements on them!
I truly appreciate the extra effort that you put in, and I hope more people will subscribe to your channel.
Outstanding review Alex! Great detail and comparison to other models. Thanks!
You are doing a great job, analyzing every single aspect of the vehicles you feature.thanks
Alex on Autos consistently does the best reviews on the web.
Great review, really professional
Great review, love the extra details you can't find in other reviews. Very informative! I already bought the iTouring with Bose/Tech package. I can't say enough great things about this car! Mazda has a winner, especially with the holistic integrated re-design approach.
Looking forward to your review of it :) I love your format and the amount of level of detail you put in. Awesome stuff!
Alex I have watched every single video of yours. I'm confident to say you are the best youtuber in car reviews. Also would you do a review for the new 2016/2017 camaro from GM? And how it's different from Cadillac ATS though pretty similar. It would be great to see that.
The Mazda 3 is still holding strong even in 2017 with others experiencing total redesigns. Once they redesign theyll be way out in front again. Unless you just want an appliance, then stick with corolla, cruze, elantra...
This reviewer is AWESOME. Subbed just because of his ability to provide top notch reviews.
Finally, someone who does a more than decent job at reviewing cars. Great work!
Thanks again for the review. I purchased my white 2014 s grand touring hatchback this past weekend. It was tough, but managed to get it for a few hundred under invoice. Awesome car!
I really did appreciate the thoroughness in the infotainment system. It definitely looks like one of the best systems in its class.
Alex, you give excellent, THOROUGH reviews. Keep it up. You make the guys on "The Fast Lane Car" look like AMATEURS......
I was on the fence before I drove it and experienced the new MazdaConnect infotainment system but now there is no question in my mind: Mazda3.
Great review, very impressed. Interested in this car and it was very helpful. Only concern is that back seat!
Great review, Alex. Thanks
That was one hell of a thorough review.
Great detailed review! Would've been nice to get some interior audio recording of hard acceleration too.
This must be one of the best carreviews I've ever seen.
Great review, especially with the lower window during navigation tutorial- thanks!
I really loved your review! I was wavering between the hatchback or a sedan in Mazda vs other brands but I really like the look of the Mazda 3 hatchback and overall performance for my first car is fine for me at this time. Price is good also.
I agree and I am looking forward to driving one when it lands.
Another great review. Thanks for mentioning interior noise levels.
Detailed and tons of info. Helps one make informed decision. Love your review.
Great review. I love that Mazda has decided to open this car up to people just looking for low priced basic transportation as well as to people with some extra money to burn and that want some high end features and technology. This really is a beautiful car, especially with the bigger wheels/rims on the 2.5 models.
Great review, Alex!
LOVE that soul red metallic paint. Also, the almond leather with black inserts creates such a nice contrast to the rest of the black interior color. So sweet! Love this new Mazda3!!
Tim,
Nice Car. Dad
Very informative review!
Subbed!
I bought an sGT 2 weeks ago when they first shipped, trading in a manual for the paddle shifting auto, and its wonderful. The manual mode is significantly better than other cars in its class, and you can down shift into 5000+ rpm range of the lower gear. also, the sport mode is phenomenal if you want to keep the engine revved and get those higher shifts. prior to this car, i had only considered manuals, since i have been driving stick for 6 years. this car converted me: no regrets at all.
I love your review video and expect this video for a long time, Thank you!
Excellent comprehensive Review !! Thank you !!
Excellent review!!! Well done!
You are the best cars reviewer on UA-cam
Thanks for the great review. 10/10
Superb review! Thanks a lot.
Outstanding review!
Well made and informative video. Perfect research material
Great video. Thanks for sharing!
nice work and good preview =)
AWESOME review!
Great job as usual Alex! I was waiting eagerly for this review. I really like this car, but did anyone ask Mazda about north eastern winters at the event? That's been their weakness historically...
as usual, terrific review
Awesome review!
your reviews are very detailed very good reviews loyal sub.
Great review. Give this man more money!!!!
The best reviews. Thanks.
Thanks for the clarification. Keep up the good work!!
It's fun to drive and the Zoom Zoom slogan nails it. 76,000 miles on my 2014. Zero problems. Averaging 38.7mpg but I do about 70% highway. 2.0L 6sp manual. Great car.
On the GT model the tech package also includes iEloop, lane departure warning, smart city braking, and as I recall, dynamic radar cruise control.
Excellent review.
Nice review, good job Mazda
Thank you! Great review!
Very thorough review. Thank you!
The interior is just gorgeous! Very high end looking.
Really great review, Mazda 3 is really amazing!
great video, extremely thorough.
Excellent review. Thanks for the details. On the sedan review, can you touch base more on the Active display and the I-Activsense features on the GT model. With the latest IIHS ratings on Front Collision Warnings, it would be interesting to see how Mazda's safety features fair compared to the competitors' such as the Subaru EyeSight.
Great video! Good advice
Really enjoy your in-depth review, truly. But I wouldn't call this a "quick look" killed you so in the end. Very appealing car.
Great info. Thanks for sharing!
Great review, though, thank you. Looking forward to more!
I own a 2014 fully loaded Grand Touring and I love it no problems as if yet. Got rid of our Jetta TDI for this car and we couldn't be happier. Drives great, looks great and the gas mileage is very good. Overall this car is as close to perfect as could be.
Fantastic review! We're you able to play with the GT paddle shifters at all? I'm interested to see how well it feels compared to a dual clutch. Also, can you discuss the Sport mode and what happens when it's engaged? I'm looking to upgrade from a Miata daily driver and still want a little control on demand with an automatic transmission. My commute is 90 miles a day, and the manual does get tiresome at the end of the week. This car and transmission looks to fit exactly what I'm looking for.
wow! mazda is kicking ass and taking names!
Hi Alex, that was a very thorough and well presented review.
I'm very tempted by this car. My biggest concerns were the acceleration and you may have cleared those. I have a 2006 6 with the 3.0L (215HP/199ftlb). I'm wondering if I can expect a similar eagerness with the 2.5L and its lower weight? 7.5s was around what the 6 got too. Also is your result with w/ 1 foot rollout?
Thanks for the great infotainment preview too! Most detailed one I've seen.
Thank you for this very detailed, informative review. Given the difference in price, would you recommend the ford focus titanium hatch or the 2.5L mazda 3 hatch? I can't decide!!l
Best car reviewer in UA-cam
Cool. Nice review.
Yes but can it fly?
I wanted to say "They MAY do it". The old 3 that was sold locally in my country got a software update over it's infotainment for newer models after the 6 was released that made the infotainment more similar to the 6 rather than the older ones.
AMAZING REVIEW. THANK YOU
Awesome review Alex!!! I've been waiting for this review to come out. A fully loaded 2014 Mazda 3 with a sticker price of over $31,000 is no compact car category anymore. You could buy a family sedan or a luxury compact car for that price. But I'd say it's worth the money if you can afford it. When are you doing the 2014 Toyota Corolla?
The new Mazda 3 is simply wicked :D
Nice review...
Great Review Thanks!
Alex, any thoughts on the heads up display and advanced safety features? I assume you'll probably get to those in your followup video. Also, does the hatchback trunk provide decent utility?
Really ? Was't this a detailed review...I found it very detailed !! Thank you :)
Any plans do review the latest Mazda 3 ?
Hey Alex, great review on the Mazda 3. I just placed an order for a Mazda 3s Hatchback Grand Touring. What do you think of the Tech Package? Other than High Beam control, I did not see anything that jumped out as desirable. Oh and just one minor error I saw in the video. The Focus Titanium is available with Dual Zone Climate control (in fact, I believe it's standard in Titanium trim) and I believe you said the Focus was one of the ones that did not offer it.
Just bought the 2.5L s Grand Touring 5-door model. Love it. I find the shifting to be very smooth. However, it initially seems to hold back a bit. I'm wondering if that's caused by the hill-holder feature built-in the transmission. Can't wait to get my intake installed.
Alex, terrific review. Extremely comprehensive and well balanced except for a lack of mention to the VW Golf or Jetta. Really appreciate your knowledge level in the review.
I've ordered the GT is Soul Mica with black leather interior. The almond looks great too though the two tone highlights the seats are only leather trimmed and I find the almond perforation doesn't look as good as the solid almond leather. Also black is easier to maintain though doesn't provide the same contrast. What's everyone's opinion of Black vs Almond leather?
Personally I prefer lighter interiors. They look more expansive and hide dust better.
I love how Mazda made the hoods longer, I agree with what you said about the RWD look. Frankly I wish it really was RWD.
Great review. I've always wanted to get a mazda3 since 2008 but the ride comfort wasn't that great and did not like the smiley face of the current one. Thank you mazda for making this car. I test drove the red sGT and rides really nice. Plus, this red looks amazing in person. I think it's one of the best red color car I've seen. Though I'll probably get silver to stay less flashy lol
It is on the website, buried deep on the first page but not listed on the spec sheet at this time. I suspect that it may be a late availability option. Mazda did announce it at the event and provided vehicles with the feature for us to drive. As I recall, it is only in the top S Grand Touring trim and will be bundled in the iEloop package.
Best in segment imo. The hardest choice is hatch or sedan...
+tipoomaster to each his own for me i like the 5 door(hatch)
Damn you're good at reviews...lol. The detail is much appreciated.
Good job Mazda! Nice review, but please state a few performance specs, like braking, 0-60 & skid pad in ur videos
Mazda engineers are absolutely obsessed with racing, driving, cars and racing. It's all they think about and do...so when you get a Mazda, you're getting as close as that body style can get to a racecar in handling. Interior does seem like a secondary consideration.
I've only driven Mazdas for 20 years, now. I won't ever stop.