- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
2.0i, 4 cyl.
- Engine Power
114kW, 200Nm
- Fuel
Petrol (91) 5.8L/100KM
- Manufacturer
FWD
- Transmission
Auto
- Warranty
3 Yr, Unltd KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
2017 Mazda3 Touring she says, he says review
She: The Mazda 3 got off to a bang in 2017, starting the year as Australia's best-selling new model in January. It received a mid-life makeover in 2016. The changes aren't big but they are notable, Steve?
He: Yeah, this is a really minor nip and tuck for the 3. But that's not surprising as it is still selling very strongly, so best not mess too much with a winning formula. The interior has had a tweak with a new steering wheel and the CD player has been replaced with more USB ports and a storage ledge. There is another important change though, the decision to make the previously optional safety package standard on this mid-range Touring model we're driving.
She: Yes, kudos to Mazda. It's great to see safety being a priority. This car now has autonomous emergency braking that also works in reverse. There's also blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. It's an impressive list and pedestrians are also accounted for. Now Steve, Mazda claims this new range is quieter. Are you convinced?
He: Not entirely. I'd have to drive the new 3 back-to-back with the old model to notice the difference. Mazda has long struggled with reducing cabin noise but seemed to turn a corner with the new CX-9, so perhaps we have to wait for the next generation 3 before it takes a leap forward in terms of quietness.
Photo: Mark Bean
She: The cabin presents well. The contoured seats are comfortable and most of the interiors have a good quality finish. Presentation wise, the set-up is neat and the controls are well positioned. However, there isn't much legroom in the back and there are no air vents, so rear passengers may feel a bit cramped. I'm not a fan of the tablet-like screen but the technology and infotainment system is hard to fault.
He: The interior changes are so subtle you'd have to be a train spotter to notice. But I like the cabin, it is simple in its design and presentation but works well and the fit and finish is good. You're right about the back seats. Mazda looked after those in the front well enough but rear occupants really have to squeeze in. It's not really suitable if you plan to carry four adults on a regular basis. What did you think about the way the new 3 drives, Dani?
She: It handles well but the ride lacks spark. It feels weak off the mark, especially if you're accelerating up hills. The gear shifts in the automatic transmission can feel somewhat jerky and lacklustre in the lower gears. It does improve once it gets spinning. What did you think?
Photo: Mark Bean
He: I actually like the way the 3 drives. I agree it needs a kick along to get going off the mark because it misses the low down torque of its turbocharged rivals. But once you get the 3 moving it feels suitably zippy. The ride is a little firm at times but the 3 feels responsive and agile in the way it handles, which fits with Mazda's 'zoom-zoom' motto. So what's your verdict?
She: The Touring costs up to $1000 more than some of its rivals but I think that's justified. Though I wasn't completely blown away by the ride, the overall package is a compelling one and hard to ignore. It's easy to see why this small car is so popular. It presents well and the safety aids are terrific. It could do with a turbo engine but on the other side of the coin, it's easy on fuel at 5.8L/100km.
He: I like the Mazda3 and can certainly understand why it is so popular. It is good value, nice to drive and presents well. But I think there are better small cars out there, most notably our Drive Best Small Car winner the Ford Focus Trend, which offers up more punch from the engine and more space inside while still being fun to drive.
2017 Mazda3 Touring price and specifications
Price: From $27,290 plus on-road costs
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol
Power: 114kW at 6000rpm
Torque: 200Nm at 4000rpm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Fuel use: 5.8L/100km