Class above looks and features, fuel-efficient engines, an ideal ride and handling balance keep while retaining a high value, the reinvented 2015 Mazda3 hatchback sits among the top favorite compact car class. In addition to offering up to 41 mpg, this Mazda3 returns with beefed-up versions of its impressive telematics system and the availability of a manual transmission for its larger 4-cylinder engine, but you’ll have to keep holding your breath for a performance-oriented Mazdaspeed version.
What’s New?
The slick Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 7-inch screen is now standard on all but the base 2015 Mazda3 sedan. Making way for the new tech, the CD player is dropped as standard equipment in lower models. A manual transmission is now offered with the larger 2.5-liter engine.
Thanks to Mazda’ Skyactiv chassis and powertrain technology the 2015 model is both fun and fuel-efficient. While credit should be given to its sporty looks, we should not forget to mention the enthusiastic engines and satisfying steering and brake feel. More impressive, though, is that this 5-passenger compact sedan and hatchback don’t compromise ride quality or fuel efficiency for the sake of performance. With 6 speed automatic transmission and 6 speed manual it is rewarding to be used. this model has a 184-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that offers 29 more horsepower than the standard 2.0. Another assuring features in this class car is the blind spot monitoring system and the Smart City Brake Support, which can stop the car autonomously to prevent a lower-speed frontal collision if the driver doesn’t apply the brakes.
Shedding the light on the infotainment system, the dash-mounted LCD screens with dial control have been in luxury cars for years, but now it is available in Mazda’s compact car. The system that controls audio, phone, apps and more is easy to learn and use especially in the 2015 Mazda3 sedans.
Under The Hood:
The 2015 Mazda3 offers two engine choices, both with a Skyactiv pedigree. The i models use a 2.0-liter inline-4 that makes a healthy 155 horsepower. The 2.5-liter found in all s variants cranks out 184 horsepower. While the 2.0-liter is still a capable performer, it trades a measure of enthusiasm for better fuel-economy numbers – 41 mpg highway in the sedan and 40 mpg in the hatchback with either the 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5-liter won’t stretch a gallon of gasoline quite that far, but notably amps up the car’s sporting character.
Whether as a 4-door sedan or 5-door hatchback, the 2015 Mazda3 stands out from other compacts with its knockout sporty styling. The hatchback is especially noteworthy for a design that should win over those who usually don’t equate hatchbacks with style. Finally, its worth mentioning that the 2015 Mazda3 remains a solid value considering the content and character of its overall package.
