Mazda3 Review
Published: 17th August 2004
Mazda3 2.0 Sport
Comfort and Refinement
According to Mazda's press literature 'the Mazda3 is one of the largest vehicles in its class' with excellent head, leg and shoulder room ( front and rear shoulder room of 1,394mm and 1,371mm) in both the front and rear and is complemented by superior knee clearance.
A 6' 4" passenger found the rear of the vehicle to be comfortable on a long journey.
Like its siblings the Mazda2 and Mazda6, the Mazda3 has very comfortable and supportive seats with dial recline and height adjustment. The drivers seat also features lumbar adjustment and the leather covered steering wheel is height and tilt adjustable enabling you to attain the perfect driving position.
The Mazda3 2.0 Sport's level of refinement is high and includes: automatic climate controlled air-conditioning, trip computer, electric windows front & rear (one touch up and down all round), digital clock, cigarette lighter, illuminated front ashtray, panel light control with dimmer, headlight on reminder (audible), driver and passenger vanity mirrors, Xenon headlamps with auto-washers, rain-sensitive wipers, auto-lights, front fog lights, foot rest, exterior temperature gauge electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors and a leather covered gear knob.
How It Looks - Exterior
The designers of the Mazda3 have created a bold and stylish car. The 3-door hatchback 2.0 Sport which we tested has a long wheelbase, long athletic bonnet and sports appearance package which includes: body-coloured slotted front sports grille, sports front and rear bumper, side skirts, roof spoiler (hatchback) , sports front fog lights and 17-inch alloy wheels.
At the rear of the vehicle a circular theme prevails and the clear rear light lenses incorporate 3 circles for the brake lights, reversing lights and indicators. The Mazda3 is equipped with LED rear lights (hatchback only).
How It Looks - Interior
The interior styling is as you would expect of Mazda stylish, functional and uncluttered with chunky and tactile switchgear. The black interior plastics were of a good quality and were enhanced with carbon fibre effect trim. The round side air vents have a look of the MX-5 and have brushed aluminium effect surrounds. The 3-ring instrument cluster, handbrake button and gear shift trim also follow this theme and have brushed aluminium surrounds. The Mazda3 also features innovative blackout dials (standard on the Sport) which may help to reduce eye fatigue.
The Mazda3's seat upholstery was a black nylon type fabric with contrasting red pattern inserts. Both the seat fabric and carpets were of a good quality and should prove durable in the long term.
