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2012 Mazda MAZDA3 Sedan
Summary
Provided by NADAguides.com
The 2012 Mazda3 is a FWD compact car available in sedan and (5-door) hatchback trim levels. The Mazda3 can be equipped with several different engine/transmission combinations; 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine (148 hp) with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder SKYACTIV-G engine (155 hp) with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, and a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (167 hp) with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. Fuel mileage falls within an EPA estimated range of 20 mpg city to 40 mpg highway, depending on engine and transmission selection. Features include bi-xenon HID headlights, adaptive front lighting system, 17-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, hands-free phone capabilities, leather trim, premium 10-speaker sound system, compact navigation system, and steering-wheel mounted controls. Safety is comprised of advanced airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, dynamic stability control, traction control, blind-spot monitoring system, and tire pressure monitoring. The Mazda3 is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Benefits of Driving a 2012 Mazda MAZDA3 Sedan
The MAZDA3 has been Mazda's best-selling vehicle for several years, representing nearly half of Mazda's U.S.-market sales, and it's easy to understand why. It's a high-quality car that's simple, small, and sporty, which help it to stand out in an increasingly crowded small car segment. And this year's addition of the economical SkyActiv technology makes it an even more inviting alternative to the Hyundai Elantra Touring, Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.
What's new for 2012?
The MAZDA3has gone through a few notable changes for 2012. The first is the addition of Mazda's SkyActiv technology. The new technology boosts fuel economy to nearly 40 mpg on the highway. It pairs a direct-injected 2.0L engine with a special 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, and helps to shave some weight from the outgoing model. Other changes across the model range include a revised grille, new headlamps, and a redesigned rear valence panel. Also new this year is a base model hatchback edition ? previously, buyers had to order the s trim to get the 5-door hatchback body.
Model Strengths
- Small size, sporty performance from S and MazdaSpeed 3 models, excellent fuel economy thanks to new SkyActiv technology.
Model Review
For 2012, the MAZDA3continues to be available in both sedan and 4-door hatchback body styles. Buyers have their choice between i, s and new SkyActiv versions. The car was completely redesigned for the 2010 model year, so updates for 2012 are modest, but important. Styling has been updated slightly, with a redesigned grille and rear valence, but the biggest news is an all-new high-efficiency engine combination under the hood.
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