Mazda 3 is one of the best compact cars that strike the right balance between speed and fuel economy. Known for its fun driving experience, the Mazda 3 sedan has been facing stiff competition from other cars in the entry-level segment and especially from the cheaper Hyundai Elantra whose upgrade version has been garnering attention.
In order to gain an edge over the competition, Mazda has refurbished the 2018 Mazda 3 model and given it a more upmarket look and a refined infotainment experience. And as usual, the Mazda 3 continues to deliver a unique driving experience with improved handling.
The Powertrain
The Mazda 3 is equipped with a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 184 hp. The engine for the GCC version the sedan has been tuned down to 153 hp. The sedan can speed up from 0-60 mph in 7.9 seconds. Additionally, it delivers impressive fuel efficiency and the associated mpg figures are 36 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg on the city roads.
The Mazda 3 gains a clear competitive advantage as far as the handing is concerned because it is equipped with the G-Vectoring Control (GVC) technology that provides sharper vehicle control. The GVC is a technology that is exclusively developed by Mazda and it offers exemplary handling by utilizing the right combination of engine, steering, suspension and throttle inputs.
Moreover, the sport-tuned suspension and precision steering help to drive the car smoothly around the corners. The sedan has a sports mode which provides quicker throttle response to packs a strong punch.
The Styling
The exterior has been designed to give it a unified flow to the onlooker. The muscular personality of the car makes it look like a midsize car. Apart from having 18-inch and 10-spoke alloy wheels, all the trim levels of Mazda 3 have been endowed with standard exterior features like moon-roof, LED fog lights, heated power side mirrors, and rain-sensing wipers.
Currently, the Mazda 3 is offered in three trim levels, namely Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. The standard Sports version has also the usual features like the Mazda Connect infotainment system, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning system, six-speaker stereo, two USB ports and emergency telematics.
The 2018 Mazda 3’s sportiness, fuel economy, features, and style make it a sedan that will appeal to a wider audience. Clearly, it is a sedan that has a little bit of everything for everyone. Do you think that the 2018 Mazda 3 is capable of fending off its major competitors like the Hyundai Elantra? Please let us know your opinions and comments.
