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The 2012 Mazda3 gets a freshened front face and a new instrument panel with a blue background and white lettering. Also new is the fuel-efficient 2.0-liter Skyactiv engine. Cars equipped with the Skyactiv engine are fitted with a choice of two new 6-speed transmissions, either manual or automatic. In addition, there are a number of equipment changes across the numerous trim levels.
In the MAZDASPEED3, Mazda finally has a compact sports model to do battle with the Volkswagen GTI and Dodge Caliber R/T. Billed as one of the fastest front-wheel-drive compact cars on the planet, the turbocharged MAZDASPEED3 puts some real muscle behind Mazda's sporty design language. Sharing most of its body with the hot-selling Mazda3 five-door practically insures the MAZDASPEED3 will be a slam-dunk success, while dynamic changes to the suspension, gearbox and interior are sure to satisfy the most demanding compact car enthusiasts. With a starting price below $23,000 and a 5,000-unit limited production run, customers are likely to find that the greatest obstacle to owning a MAZDASPEED3 won't be cost, but finding one on a dealer lot.
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why ads?By Ashley (NC) on Friday, October 19, 2012
I own this car
Reason: Accident - My approximate mileage is 30,000
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I had a 2005 Mazda 3i and I loved it! I lost control and slammed into a tree at 50 miles an hour. My car was completely totaled. The paramedics told me that they had no idea Mazdas were made so well. If the frame had not held the way it did, I would have lost my legs or worse. I bought a new one after that and will not drive anything else."
18 people out of 18 found this review helpful
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By dhumann05 (TN) on Wednesday, September 28, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 3,500
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "bluetooth, telescopic steering wheel, auxiliary power (always on)"
Cons: "price of s trim, no usb port"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I've had this car for only 3 months but I've loved every minute of it. It was my first brand new purchase and I have no regrets! I use the bluetooth the most out of all the features, and I never thought I would be able to go from a coupe to a sedan but the mazda3 maintains the sportiness and even the handling of many coupes on the market today. Highly recommended, a blast to drive!"
15 people out of 15 found this review helpful
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By MazdaOwner (IL) on Friday, December 14, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 550
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "Fun car, pretty quiet, great mileage & handling"
Cons: "Little tight fit inside, but it's an economy car"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Traded my 10 year old Mazda MPV for a new 2013 Mazda 3i hatchback. MPV was very reliable, so the Mazda 3 was an easy choice. Got 37 mpg on first tank, so mileage should be excellent. No wind noise from windows and pretty quiet overall. Compared Focus, Elantra, and Civic but I felt the skyactiv on the Mazda was a better engineering design. This car is fun to drive. After driving the Mazda 3 for about 2 weeks, I drove my 2008 Honda Accord and it felt clunky compared to the feel of the Mazda. Also like the keyless entry & start, bluetooth, and USB port for using my ipod. I have the upgraded Bose sound system, which is nice, but a bit overpriced like most Bose equipment. I think the 6 speed auto transmission with 2.0L engine works well, though the transmission tends to shift quickly at lower rpm. Probably setup that way to maximize fuel economy. I am satisfied with the black interior, although adding some additional color would likely dress it up a bit more. There are a lot of control buttons on the steering wheel that can be a little overwhelming at first. I like the fairly simplistic layout of the dash controls though. Can't really go wrong with buying this car. It's considered an economy car, but it feels like much, much more."
11 people out of 11 found this review helpful
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