Mazda3 Review
Published: 17th August 2004
Mazda3 2.0 Sport
How It Drove - Performance
The Mazda3 2.0 Sport is powered by Mazda's second generation inline 4-cylinder, 16-valve 2.0 litre MZR engine which produces 150ps enabling the Mazda3 2.0 Sport to accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.0 seconds and continue to a top speed of 125 mph.
As you would expect of Mazda the engine is particularly quiet and refined - so much so that when you come to a halt at a road junction you may think that the car has stalled. Power delivery is smooth and and designed to deliver ample low-end torque which results in a spirited and enjoyable drive. Fuel economy is good with the 2.0 Sport returning 34.5 mpg on an urban cycle with C02 emissions of 196 g/km.
The standard five-speed gearbox is superb with an acceptable degree of notchiness normally associated with more performance marques. Each gear change was smooth and precise making it a joy to change up and down through the gears - the drive was bordering on athletic with plenty of pulling power even in 5th gear. The 1.6 litre Activematic - is available with an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission and is available in both hatchback and saloon versions.
How It Drove - Ride/Handling
The Mazda3's ride is fluid on all road surfaces and the 2.0 Sport model features EHPAS electro-hydraulic power-assisted, speed sensitive power steering which is direct and well-weighted. Mazda have created an exceptionally stable car with excellent driving dynamics and exceptional levels of grip. The overall ride is both reassuring and firm and you do feel in touch with the road surface. In our opinion this is not a problem as the Mazda3 rewards you with an exhilarating driving experience.
The Mazda3's agile front wheel drive chassis has been tuned to offer a balance between handling stability and ride comfort. However, by coupling 150ps to a front wheel drive hatchback you do suffer from torque steer although it did not prove to be too much of a problem and you soon get used to it. The 2.0 Sport model is equipped with standard DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) and TCS (Traction Control System) which are designed to assist the driver in maintaining control during acceleration, cornering and avoidance manoeuvres.
All-round disc brakes with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and EBA (Emergency Brake Assist) are standard on the 2.0 Sport and ensure that the Mazda3 brakes reassuringly well.
