Available in a four-door model and a five-door hatch, the 2010 Mazda 3 comes in a narrower range of colors than previous models. It has a three year/36, 000 mile warranty with a transferable powertrain warranty for five years/60, 000 miles.
The 2010 Mazda 3 is powered by either the base 2. 0 liter engine, with 148 horsepower and 135 pound/foot of torque, or a new 2. 5 liter engine with 167 horsepower and 168 pound/foot of torque. It features a new six speed manual transmission or the five speed automatic which has a manual shift mode. Fuel economy is expected to at least match the previous model of around 22/30 mpg.
Those who have rated the Mazda 3 on performance claim that the enhancements to the body seem to work well with the mechanics of the car. The steering is direct and responsive, the braking is sharp, the suspension is fine tuned and the engine has enough power to drive the weight of the vehicle with ease. Some claim that the new model drives better than the already good previous model. None of the 3′s reputation for aggressive performance has been lost in the redesign.
Safety is an important consideration these days, and again the Mazda 3 comes up trumps, scoring 5 stars for front end collisions for both driver and passenger, and on side impacts, 5 stars for driver and 4 stars for passenger. It received a 4 star roll-over rating. This has been achieved with two front and side air bags and side curtain air bags. It features an anti-lock braking system and brake assist as standard.
