mazda32Reviewed by Susan Frissell, editor

In its third generation, the Mazda3 four-door and five-door models have been updated for 2014. Available in six trim levels: I Sport ($18,945), I Touring ($20,095), I Grand Touring ($23,245), S Touring ($25,095) and S Grand Touring ($26,495). The 4-door models start at $16,945 MSRP, the five-door at $18,945. The 2.0-liter gasoline engine is standard, the 2.5-liter optional. The 2.0-l models can be teamed with either a SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmission, or a SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic. Currently, models with the 2.5-liter engine are only available with the automatic transmission; the manual offered at a later date.

Safety equipment on this little hatchback abounds and includes hill launch assist, ABS, traction control, dynamic stability control, front, side and curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring system and Mazda’ SKYACTIV-body ring structure.  Anti-theft engine immobilizer, blind spot monitoring, rearview camera and rear cross traffic alert were helpful and useful during Chicago’s snowy days.mazda3 frontn end

Our test model was the I Sport 5-door Grand Touring edition. With upgrades a plenty for 2014, the Mazda3 has an improved updated interior, along with a much friendlier ride. Fairly quiet, the Mazda3 5-door offers a comfortable, spirited ride. One can opt for the larger 2.5-liter engine with more horsepower, but we found the 2.0-liter more than adequate. Paired with Mazda’s 6-speed transmission, the Mazda3 i-5 is easy to drive and keeps up with the best of them.

The rear seat is roomy enough for most passengers and when collapsed, holds some, but not all your stuff. Up against the competition (VW GTI, Subaru Forester, for instance), the Mazda3 5-door probably won’t hold your pup unless she’s a Chi, and will disappoint when trying to pack in any long skis. While the Mazda3 5-door doesn’t have the most inspiring design (resembles Ford’s Focus), it’s pleasant looking, fun to drive and has best-in-class quick-to-warm up heated seats.

It took some getting used to use the ‘command’ center console controls. Similar to the Lexus controls, we found the Mazda’s somewhat annoying. After a while it made sense, but seemed a lot of work to go from XM to FM and back and from station to station. Once locating the tune button, it became tolerable. The sound provided by the Bose 9-speaker audio system is good, and the system includes Pandora, SMS text message delivery and reply, Sirius/XM satellite, nav system, AHA, Stitcher all on a 7-inch touch-screen display. We especially grooved with the picture displayed of each artist when his/her song was played. Distracting, though.

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Options included cargo mat ($70), Soul Red Metallic paint ($300), rear bumper guard ($100), scuff plates/door sill trim plates ($100).

When up against the competition, say Ford Focus, you’re getting an efficient performer than doesn’t feel less than. However, our test car’s total vehicle price of close to $25,000 isn’t inexpensive. It did, however, have a lot of amenities. Would I own this vehicle? Maybe, but it wouldn’t be my only vehicle; as much as I like it.

As someone who knows their vehicles and is serious about what they drive, he/she is aware of all that a Mazda offers; namely, dependability, forward-thinking technology and economy. The 2014 Mazda3 I Sport topped the list of Best New Car Under $20,000, as well as best ‘small, all-new from the ground up’vehicle. Year after year, Mazda continues to offer sporty, fun-to-drive, reliable vehicles. It’s hard to go wrong.

SPECS

MSRP: $23,245; total vehicle price $24,635; destination $795

Engine: 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder,SKYACTIV-G, 155 hp., 150 lb. ft. torque

Transmission: SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed.manual

Wheelbase: 106.3 in.

Height: 57.3 in.

Weight: 2,797 lbs.

Width: 70.7 in.

Length: 175.6 in.

EPA fuel economy: 29/40 mpg.

Tires: P205/60R16 all-season

Wheels: 16-inch alloy

Warranty: 3 yrs./36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper; 5 yrs./60,000-mile limited powertrain; 3 yrs./36,000-mile 24-hr. roadside assistance