2008 Mazda3 S Touring 5-door
Reviewed by Susan Frissell
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SPECS
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It's always a pleasure to get into the Mazda vehicles and the new 2008 Mazda3 is no exception. The 2.3-liter engine performs effortlessly and with plenty of pep and is easy to drive; which is no small pleasure today. This is a rather smallish wagon but offers enough cargo and passenger space to be handy and practical. There is plenty of safety equipment on board to make a mother feel comfortable and includes latch child safety seat anchors, anti-whiplash front seat design, advanced dual front air bags, side impact air bags and curtains, among others.
For the driver who is concerned about theft/safety, Mazda offers the remote keyless illuminated entry, anti-theft engine immobilizer, ABS, traction control and electronic stability control; just to start.
Our Sunlight Silver Metallic Mazda3 Touring test car came equipped with only two options: Moonroof/in-dash 6-disc CD changer ($890) and Sirius Satellite radio-ready ($430). There is a fair amount of standard equipment on the Mazda3, including tilt and telescopic steering column, steering wheel controls, cruise, power windows/locks, A/C, AM/FM/CD 6-speaker audio system, Sirius radio compatible, rear window defogger/wiper, body color dual power mirrors, ABS with Electronic stability control and brake assist, traction control, rear center armrest with 2 cupholders, leather-wrapped steering wheel, among other amenities.
One of the fastest-and quickest front-wheel-drive cars, claims Mazda, Mazda3 adds more style and power for 2008. This fun-to-drive car handles well and is available in two trim levels: Sport and Grand Touring. Our S Touring model came equipped with the 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve I4 turbo engine, teamed with Mazda's spunky 6-speed manual transmission. The Sport pricing starts at $22,340; the Grand Touring at $24,055. While the close-to-$25,000 pricing may seem steep, Mazda packs in the amenities.
The Mazda3 is available in 4 and 5-door versions. A sporty hatchback is aimed at a youthful market, the 5-door comes standard with a sport package that includes stylish front-and-rear bumpers, side-skirts, 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps and recognizable taillights. Standard side airbags and side air curtains (s Sport models) are new for 2008.
The wagon-type look may not appeal to the hardcore enthusiast, but we think it fits just right. Not only is there extra cargo space, but you get a feel for "more" car. We enjoyed driving the new Mazda3 , and it remains one of our favorite daily drivers.