The year is about to come to an end and by now, you think it’s a foregone conclusion on what the best compact car is. Well, depending on what your priorities are, the answer isn’t as clear cut as you may think. If you still value driving above everything else, then you shouldn’t settle for a car with an “H” upfront. There’s only one definitive driver’s compact out and that’s the Mazda3.
Still looking every bit as sporty and modern, it comes as a surprise that the current Mazda3 has been around since 2014. Considering that two years is a long time in automotive terms, the overall design has stood up to the test of time. Of course, that’s not to say Mazda hasn’t made any improvements to the way it looks. On the contrary, revisions have been done to visually widen the stance.
It’s appreciated especially from the front where the Mazda3’s new headlight clusters, now illuminated by active LEDs, flow better to the bigger and wider wing grille. From there, the Mazda emblem has been repositioned, fitting much better with the thicker horizontal slats. Even the signal indicators, fog lamps (now LEDs as well) and lower air intake have been tweaked all in the name of stance. The rear-end changes are far less dramatic, but the reduction in the high-gloss plastic bits is very welcome. Far less welcome is the 2017’s more aggressive wrap-around aero kit which has somehow increased its propensity to scrape when going through steep driveways.
While Mazda engineers put their effort on giving the Mazda3 a wider stance outside, inside, they’ve concentrated on upping the fit and finish. There hasn’t been any doubt that they’ve already been providing a premium feel for this car’s class, but after this update, they’ve upgraded it even further. Raiding the Mazda6 parts bin, which isn’t a bad thing, the Mazda3 now dons a completely new center console from the climate control buttons all the way to the arm rest. The Command Controller rotary knob is still there, but the mechanical parking brake has been ditched for an electric, push-button one. This zeros the chance of would-be drivers from ever attempting a handbrake turn, but it does also give birth to two Venti sized cup holders.
Looking around, there are other detail changes from the steering wheel with thicker spokes and larger controls, darker metallic accents on the dashboard and vents, and (sadly) scratch-prone piano black power window switch bezels. The ingenious use of screen protectors can probably rectify the last bit, but there’s no correcting the Mazda3’s most glaring issue: the gauges. For the love of the driving gods, Mazda, please do with something with a bit more pizzazz. Sure, it’s legible and it’s new for 2017, but it still looks like something plucked out of a calculator.
Apart from the instrument cluster, interior space is still at a premium. There’s no problem with the seat support front or back (they’re great and equally comfy), but the rear passengers will clamor for more head and knee room. Together with the upward slope of the greenhouse, it lends a claustrophobic feel at the back. Finally, your eyes aren’t deceiving you: Mazda finally ditched the impractical Pure White leather for an all-black number. It’s a definite plus for those wanting an easy to maintain car.
As the Speed model, this particular Mazda3 is priced at P 1,398,000. For those keeping score, that’s down exactly to the last peso as the newest kid on the block and 2016’s biggest headline: the Honda Civic RS Turbo. So how do these two stack up against each other? Surprisingly, the Made in Japan Mazda holds out on its own. It has: blind spot indicators, dual zone climate control, heads-up display (that niftily displays navigation and blind spot information), front and rear parking sensors with cross traffic alert and reverse camera, a moon roof, and a 9-speaker Bose sound system—things not found in the Civic. Clearly, the Civic is walloped in terms of equipment and offers only two advantages. First, it’s the only one that offers Android Auto and Apple Car Play; and second, it’s got 20 more horsepower on tap.
Technophiles will say that the Civic’s first advantage makes its infotainment system much more future-proof than the Mazda’s, and that’s entirely believable. The second advantage though, the one about the power, is debatable. If the world were all drag strips, then sure, the Civic will smoke the Mazda3 each and every time. As it is though, the Mazda3 is the better car to drive in the real world and by a huge margin. Credit goes to Mazda’s new Skyactiv-Vehicle Dynamics which starts with G-Vectoring Control or GVC. Without getting too technical, GVC uses the engine to extract more grip from the chassis. It minutely controls the torque going to the wheels and thanks to physics, it reduces the unwanted swaying or pitching motion. It’s ingenious and unlike other torque vectoring systems, it works the moment you turn the steering wheel.
By far, GVC is the ace up Mazda’s sleeve and the very reason why the Mazda3 is still the best driver’s compact. Thanks to the horrendous traffic, there’s no love lost in doing that daily home to office commute and yet these driving chores can be fun in a Mazda3. The added precision from the steering together with the noticeably improved NVH makes a world of difference. For instance, it’s more stable and responsive to quick, sudden lane change maneuvers. Meanwhile, parking ramps can be fun too if they have a long, continuous slope. With just well-calculated turn of the wheel and GVC gives you prowess; there’s no need to saw the wheel anymore. It’s also more than just a parlor trick. It also reduces body sway during cornering thereby minimizing the chance of motion sickness for sensitive passengers. At higher speeds, noise intrusion is noticeably reduced and stability has been improved.
This newfound sense of stability and linearity goes hand-in-hand with the rest of the drivetrain. Using a normally-aspirated engine, it’s down in terms of outright power, but makes up for it with a well-tuned throttle pedal. This makes the Mazda3 very easy to drive in stop-and-go traffic. The only flipside is that once you want some race pace, you’ll need to wring the engine a bit more. And that’s fine because the powerplant is smooth with a nice, throaty note at the top end. The 6-speed automatic is also a willing partner-in-crime, shifting quickly and efficiently. There are paddle shifters, but you won’t need them.
As a company, Mazda has dedicated themselves to designing and engineering cars which celebrate driving; and the 2017 Mazda3 flows with that kind of personality inside and out. It’s not promising to be the compact segment’s jack of all trades and it most definitely is not. Rather, it’s got a clear cut mission to satisfy the few who still put spirited handling above everything else, even if it’s just for the daily grind. It’s hard to imagine a “regular” compact car being this good, but here it is in full Soul Red glory. For the handful who appreciate driving, the Mazda3 is a godsend in a sea of cold, lifeless computer cars, be it turbocharged or not.
2017 Mazda3 Speed
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| Ownership | 2017 Mazda3 Speed Hatchback |
| Year Introduced | 2014 (Refreshed: 2016) |
| Vehicle Classification | Compact Car |
| The Basics | |
| Body Type | 5-door Hatchback |
| Seating | 5 |
| Engine / Drive | F/F |
| Under the Hood | |
| Displacement (liters) | 2.0 |
| Aspiration | Normal Aspirated |
| Fuel Delivery | Direct Injection |
| Layout / # of Cylinders | I4 |
| BHP @ rpm | 153 @ 6,000 |
| Nm @ rpm | 200 @ 4,000 |
| Fuel / Min. Octane | Gasoline / 91~ |
| Transmission | 6 AT |
| Cruise Control | Yes |
| Fuel Economy @ Ave. Speed | 8.47 km/L @ 12 km/h |
| Dimensions and Weights | |
| Length (mm) | 4,470 |
| Width (mm) | 1,795 |
| Height (mm) | 1,465 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,700 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1,322 |
| Suspension and Tires | |
| Front Suspension | Independent, MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Independent, Multi-link |
| Front Brakes | Vented Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Tires | Dunlop Sport Maxx TT 215/45 R 18 W (f & r) |
| Wheels | Alloy |
| Safety Features | |
| Airbags | 6 |
| Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) | Yes |
| Traction / Stability Control | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Yes, Front and Rear with Camera, Cross Traffic Alert |
| Other Safety Features | Blind Spot Detection |
| Exterior Features | |
| Headlights | LED, Adaptive |
| Fog Lamps | Yes, Front |
| Auto Lights | Yes |
| Rain-sensing Wipers | Yes |
| Interior Features | |
| Steering Wheel Adjust | Tilt/Telescopic |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather |
| Seating Adjustment | Electric (driver) |
| Seating Surface | Leather |
| Folding Rear Seat | Yes, 60/40 |
| On-Board Computer | Yes |
| Convenience Features | |
| Power Steering | Yes |
| Power Door Locks | Yes |
| Power Windows | Yes |
| Power Mirrors | Yes, with Fold |
| Climate Control | Yes, Dual Zone |
| Audio System | Stereo DVD MP3 USB Bluetooth |
| # of Speakers | 9, Bose |
| Steering Controls | Yes |
The Mazda 3 is really for driving enthusiasts, not just the brand worshipers. Test drove a 2017 Mazda 3 and a 2017 Honda Civic, and chose the Mazda 3 in the end due to the features mentioned above that the Civic doesn't have and The Civic doesn't feel engaging to drive. The Civic feels faster and it is faster than the Mazda 3 but the feeling of excitement is not just there, maybe due to the CVT and the mediocre sound of the exhaust. On the other hand, the 3 has a far more premium looking and feeling aesthetics and interior, which makes you feel like you're in a luxury sedan. Also, you would tend to drive more because it is really the driver's compact, and lastly, I got a 5 year free PMS and 3 year standard warranty in Mazda North Edsa, the 5 year free pms alone would blow the Civic away. I don't care much about parts and resale value because I'm not buying the Mazda to be repaired and to be resold, I'm buying it for keeps.
ReplyDeleteYou're not a driving enthusiast with an automatic just a pretender
DeleteMazda's automatics are fun to drive as well. Well, Mazda has no Automatic Mazda 3 here, but at least I'm honest, not like other people who praises manual. I live in Manila, and my current car is a manual, this is my first automatic actually. The traffic situation is just terrible in Manila, not a place to drive manuals anymore.
DeleteMazda3 as an enthusiast-car..LOL! golf/208 gti those are FWD enthusiast cars, not this cheap family sedan. You only bought it because it is cheap with those PMS sh*t. Automatic because of too much traffic? You're clearly an ordinary guy who bought a car and thinks he is an "enthusiast".
DeleteNot all of us can afford a Golf gti or pay around 2 million for a compact hatch, If you can then lucky you. Cheap? The Mazda 3 costs 1.268m, it's not cheap, maybe you're just bitter that your car brand doesn't have the free PMS that Mazda offers. As the author had stated in his article, the Mazda 3 is the best driver's compact in the market, and if I were an "ordinary guy", I would have bought a Corolla or a Civic. Clearly you haven't driven a Mazda 3 or you're one of those brand worshipers that I and the author is talking about.
Delete..but please don't call it as an enthusiast-car. I cringed. LOL
DeleteSo what is an enthusiast's car for you? An overpriced golf or any car that has loads of power but lacks car-driver connection?
DeleteAn enthusiast's car is a dilapidated 90's corolla with huge ass spoilers, loud fart-sounding exhaust, baduy paintjobs, defi gauges inside, momo steering wheel, 18 inch alloy wheels, improperly fitted HID lights, and lastly.... it has manual transmission.
DeleteYou mean a riced civic from the 90's?
DeleteIn PH, yes it is overpriced.
DeleteWhat is an enthusiast car for me? hmmm let's start w/ manual transmission, if you love to drive then manual is for you, but if you love steering then go for automatics just like what kids love - a bump car. LOL
The meaning of enthusiast is someone who is highly interested in something - google. I would take a manual Mazda 3 but it isn't offered here in the Philippines, and if I do live in the province. Mazda's automatic transmission is surprisingly engaging to drive especially in sport mode. It's not a bump car, lol. I would love to have a Golf GTI, or BMW M2, but they're simply overpriced here, in fact, all cars sold here in the country are overpriced.
DeleteApparently some dumbasses think driving a manual is already equivalent to an enthusiast.
DeleteYeah a base model Crosswind is an enthusiast car ��
DeleteOP, may i know your salesman at Mazda North EDSA for reference.
DeleteMany thanks!!
https://www.facebook.com/JonabelleGuadiz She's a girl btw.
DeleteRapsa din pala... Mukhang magaling.
Delete"I would take a manual Mazda 3 but it isn't offered here in the Philippines" No you won't hahaha
Deletebale kung automatic pala di na driving enthusiast. paano na yung mga dual clutch sa mga sports car at pdk transmission ng porsche? hahaha bida bida nanaman basta lang may masabi. ang tunay na enthusiast ng mga kotse di judgemental sa transmission ng sasakyan ako meron akong cvt na wrx. pero wala akong pake sa mga nega comment comment wala naman silang pambili nun. atsaka naeenjoy ko naman kotse ko. atleast i can take it in the track and i can drive easily in traffic here in metro where most of the time babad ako sa traffic.
DeleteA car enthusiast is someone who appreciates cars period-- regardless of transmission. To each his own.
Delete5 year PMS? I thought it's only 3 years Yojin3?
DeleteHwag kayo mag-away dito share na lang natin ang nagusustuhan natin sa isang brand. Sir about your FC? paki explain naman po Sir. Thanks
DeleteI'm surprised as well. But Mazda dealerships under ANC offer an additional 2 years Yojin(North Edsa, Quezon Ave, etc). About FC, I got an avg of 6km/l @9km/h with my 2.0 Mazda 3. Could reach 8-9 in light traffic, and I have a heavy foot, especially in acceleration and braking. I was slightly disappointed, I thought it would ave 8-9km/l, but with traffic in the Metro, I couldn't ask for more. It is also more fuel efficient than other 2.0's(old Civic, focus, Altis). I kinda wished I got the Speed Variant, but am very satisfied overall.
DeletePeople who say the new Mazda 3 isn't an 'enthusiast' car are down-right dumb and close-minded. YOU wake up, you haven't even test-driven yet and you claim like you know everything. What's the point in years of progress if you still stick to your old thinking? Mazda did a great job with the new 3, hands down I'll give them that. And ow, each variant also has a 'Manual'. But seriously, the automatic is a game changer in the segment and 'experience'. Stop 'pretending' you know all
DeleteLet's say you'll be buying a sedan, which one will you get? This 3 or the Civic RS? And why?
ReplyDeleteI don't have a family and I normally just have one or two people who ride with me. In that case, I'd buy the Mazda3 2.0 any day of the week. It's much more engaging to drive (it's not just marketing BS) plus it's actually more fuel efficient in the city compared to the RS Turbo.
DeleteIf I had a kid or family, then it would be a different matter altogether. Seriously, I would be torn between the RS and the Speed. If we have another bigger car, say, an SUV or Innova, I'd go for the Mazda. If it will be my one and only car? Civic.
People who say the new Mazda 3 isn't an 'enthusiast' car are down-right dumb and close-minded. YOU wake up, you haven't even test-driven yet and you claim like you know everything. What's the point in years of progress if you still stick to your old thinking? Mazda did a great job with the new 3, hands down I'll give them that. And ow, each variant also has a 'Manual'. But seriously, the automatic is a game changer in the segment and 'experience'. Stop 'pretending' you know all
DeleteHope you can also do a review of the more affordable V variant.
ReplyDeleteI'm hoping so also. Let's see. I drove the 2.0 R briefly...it's a less loaded version of the Speed. If you're on a tight budget and want power, that would be good enough; otherwise, I'd go for the Speed this time.
Deletecoffee aside, my only let down is the soul red color. yes, its the best out there, but once it got dinged or scratched, its a painful repair as your backyard paint shops cannot replicate the 3-tiered paint process done on the 3. Maybe a not so popular color like white or silver would be the best choice in terms of color. But if I had the cash, and money is not an object - i will buy both. The 3 and the RS. These two cars represent the two ends of the spectrum.
ReplyDeleteCan you review the 2017 Mazda 3 R please? are the additional features such as the bose and power seats, scuff plates, etc worth the price difference between the R and the Speed?
ReplyDeleteThis time around, I'd have to say yes.
DeleteThe Speed gets powered driver seat, Bose sound system, blind spot indicator, front and rear sensors with camera (R only has rear sensors), scuff plate, body kit. That's a lot of stuff now compared to before.
Calling it Speed would be an gross exaggeration. Its mere 150+hp is just adequate and offers middling performance. The Civic Turbo offers much more excitement at the same price.
ReplyDeleteYou just don't get it, excitement and driving fun isn't measured in hp alone, research why the Miata with only 160hp is far more fun to drive than an 86 with 200 horses. Well, the Civic is more spacious though and faster as well, but for the joy of driving in the compact segment, the Mazda 3 is on top. The Speed variant just adds aesthetics, if you see the 2017 Mazda 3 speed in Soul Red in person, you would be flabbergasted, and you would know that I'm talking about if you even bothered to test drive it.
DeleteSpeed - because a Lawn mower was used as a benchmark. smh
DeleteLol, the Mazda 3 may not be the fastest car in the segment, but it is among the fastest. Also, 8.7secs to 100km is not bad for a naturally aspirated 4 cylinder car, and it sounds great doing so. Unlike a certain car with an H badge that has that horrible CVT drone that sounds like the lawn mower you're talking about. You may bash the Mazda 3 all day long, but you cannot deny that it is the best driver's compact in the segment.
Delete"I have fun when I piss myself everytime a civic overtakes me." - every Mazda3 owner
DeleteThen I put my Mazda 3 in sport mode and overtake the Civic as the Civic runs out of boost from its turbo.
DeleteSport mode gives your Mazda3 some boost? That is just the throttle response. Good for Mazda - their marketing BS works with brand fanatics. Your Mazda3 has no chance with 170~hp w/ lighter body.
DeleteI didn't say that it gives an artificial boost like the Civic, but it makes the throttle ready for more action. In a straight line yes, but the top speed of the Civic RS and the Mazda 3 Speed are the same, the Civic just accelerates a second faster than the Mazda 3. And the Civic is just lighter by around 5 kilos due to its smaller engine.
Deleteit's not about boost or horsepower or straightline speed folks. It's the overall tuning and packaging of mechanical components. For example - The vulnerable Bugatti Veyron is slower by 12 seconds in the nurburgring lap time against a stock Nissan GTR. siguro kung sa track like BRC or Subic Intl speedway dadaanin, the M3 will smoke the RS because of the M3's total packaging in terms of Handling, Tranny, wheels and suspension.
DeleteUntil someone puts the Civic RS and 2017 M3 R through a track ,like in Subic and with the same driver. I'll consider your comment as a personal opinion and not a fact.
DeleteLOL!!! Putting the mazda 3 in sport mode beats the civic?! What the hell??? Hahahaha. Dude. That's hilarious. I almost squirted the coke I'm drinking out of my nostrils.
DeleteWhen it comes to these cars, it all comes down to personal opinion and which you like best.
DeleteIf you're young and want speed, get the Civic. If you're older and want refinement, get the 3 "speed"
Delete"but the top speed of the Civic RS and the Mazda 3 Speed are the same"
DeleteQuestion is - when will your Mazda3 will reach that top speed?
Its about acceleration. You wont reach even auvs can reach 100kph but will take a lot of patience. Overtaking is a breeze on the hiways on a car with the better engine. If thats not important to you i guess you should keep the money in your pocket and buy an eon or something
DeleteI can smoke both those pussies with my ve engined 25 year old car. If you want speed, go tune your car. Please people stop arguing about which car is faster.
DeleteFanboys and their lawnmowers lmao. Wanted speed and getting a civic? Pls kys if you really think speed and Civic coincides lmao
DeleteCan you do a comparison of the Civic 1.8 E and 2017 Mazda 3 V? I'm leaning towards the Civic because of the overall value. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteGet the Civic E over the Mazda 3 V, but get the Mazda 3 R over the Civic RS. -Mazda fanboy
DeleteOr better yet, delay a few months to save 200k and you can buy the Mazda 3 R. The 200k difference is well worth it for the R variant. The Civic E has good value but the RS is overpriced, the RS should be priced the same or even lower than the Mazda 3 R but Honda's pricing strategy is to price their cars a bit higher than the competitors.
DeleteI think you guys are forgetting something....the Mazda 3 Speed is now priced at Php1,398,000. That is exactly the same price as the Civic RS.
DeleteIn terms of practicality, the Mazda3 may have some advantages over the civic... Although the civic is more spacious, the mazda 3 has more ground clearance and is offered in a hatchback form. If you have a pretty short family, I think the Mazda is ok.
ReplyDeleteDoes the driver seat have vertical height adjustment?
ReplyDeleteYes it does. 6 way power adjustment.
Deletebakit naman ganyan ang speedometer nyan?.. nakakainis. Mas ok sana kahit yung sa low end variant na speedo ginamit. haayz.. mas ok pa yun digital speedo ng civic. hindi after thought. properly incorporated.
ReplyDeletePersonally I liked the 2014-2016 speedometer, but I think they've gone for a simpler, more basic speedometer like in Mini or in in the 86. Well, at least it's not as ugly as in the 86, Mini and even in the Rolls Royce Phantom. The speedometers on those cars looks like they're from 1940. The Civic has the best looking intrument cluster in the segment now.
DeleteMga nagkukunwari lang kayong lalaki mga Mazda at Honda fanboys. Puro kayo paporma, kulelat naman kayo sa hiway at takot mag offroad. Walang panama ang 170hp x 250Nm ng car nyo laban sa 200Hp x 500Nm diesel na SUV. Ngawa lang kau ng ngawa!
ReplyDeleteOh boy. This idiot again. Kulelat sa highway? Are you kidding? 0-100 ng tralbalzer/colorado mo is only about 9 seconds ulol! Malakas on paper, sa actual supot naman pala.
DeleteThere's no reason to go off-road you uncivilized caveman, that's why we build paved roads. SUV's have a bumpy ride, not a comfy ride and the diesel noise is unpleasant. Compact cars have far better aerodynamics than your brick. For the price of a midsize third world SUV, I would rather buy an Accord or a Mazda 6. I don't need seats, what I need is the most luxurious car that is within my budget. The ride comfort, sound insulation and ambiance of passenger cars cannot be compared to an SUV.
Delete*I don't need 7 seats*
DeleteAs a matter of experience, i was sandwiched by a racing Mazda 3 and Honda Civic at the SCTEX. They are fast approaching annoyingly blowing their horn behind me. I am at 120kph and i know they are testing each other at 140kph. I slightly pressed my accelerator and catch them up at 140. I feel they are still pulling away from my left and right. Pressed again my accelerator, increased my speed to 160. The three of us moving at the same time, we have stared at each other side to side. They upped their speed to 170...i pressed my pedal a bit more ..im at 180kph and they are at 180. I notice my Duramax engine begin to growl. I pressed some more, my engine is roaring hard. Glanced my speedo its 190 and they are coming...i floored my gas pedal without any let up, at this time the roar of the Duramax engine is gone, i can only hear the zooommm whooommm and whoooouuunnggg of the wind, i look at my rear view mirror, i can see behind me two woebbling cars like floating...blown by the wind, my rpm now falling on the red line, braving the dazzling winds , i let my foot stayed some at the floored gas pedal...another look at the rear...can't see anything,
Deletethe two pretenders are no where to be seen...suddenly its the end of the expressway...i slowed down...over yonder there's Shell Gas Station. I stopped, put in VPower, sipped a cup of coffee. Told myself, ive put myself in danger...i feel scared....but driving is fun !
They must have stopped racing, because both cars can reach a top speed of 260km, you're brick is also not designed for speed due to its poor aerodynamics.
DeleteOh god this is why everybody hates you. We're talking about compact cars and here you are bringing in the freaking Colorodo again. Stick to the freaking topic and stay within the speed limit. We could report you for speeding and/or reckless driving you know.
Deleteang colorado mo ay hindi uubra sa nissan GTR.
Deletegusto mo kasi palagi out of comparison eh. ayan. karerahen mo yang GTR. palagi ka out of topic.
Oh wow nag story time pa si koya. Sige ako rin, as a matter of experience I was sandwiched by a Chevy Colorado and Ford Everest racing in NLEX. I was cruising at the 100kph speed limit in my '95 EG Civic SiR (VTEC Yo) when the two trucks overtook me. Not one to back down from a challenge, I downshift to 3 and floor the pedal and let VTEC kick-in yo! Went from 100kph to 190 in 6 seconds! Both trucks then tried to box me out but because of their raised ride height and clumsy-ass suspension, it wasn't difficult for me to find a passing lane! Before I knew it they were specks in my rearview mirror. I then stop at Shell, buy a bottle of Jack, take a swig, and put the rest in my Civic. Cause real cars run on Jack.
DeletePanalo sa creative writing tong si Autoactiv. Panay tawa ko.
DeleteSiguro pag iihi kau nakaupo?
ReplyDeleteYou bought an SUV because you are compensating for something.
DeleteTama ka idol autoavtiv. Civic and 3 may post better 0-60 times but when you drive that car you have to slow down for badly paved roads or potholes which high hp suvs will effortlessly absorb. As you know konti lng naman perfectly paved roads natin dito
ReplyDeleteIn day to day driving encounters, the Civic and Mz3 might win inside the 0-60 seconds start up race. But they lack or fall short of Energy and Power to sustain their high speed and momentum owing to their lower engine outputs. In the end larger engines with higher HP's & greater Torque always comes out to be the front runner and unscatched runaway leader!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeletePower and Torque Specs:
ReplyDeleteMazda 3: 153HP x 200NM
Civic : 141HP x 174NM
How can these two cars above overpower and outrun the big guns below? Read the figures,
Duramax Colorado/TB : 200Hp x 500Nm
Duratorq Everest/Ranger : 180Hp x 470Nm
Even if the effect of aerodynamics comes into play, 'Drag' accounts for only about 10% decrease or loss of engine power. In that case, the Duramax still got 180hp net power sustaining its speed with 500Nm to turn the wheels. Simply it shows, there is no way a car with smaller engine displacepement and output could overpower and outrun a car with bigger displacement and greater engine output.
You forgot that the weight difference between a Mazda 3 or a Civic versus a midsize SUV such as the trailblazer is around 700kg and that's a lot of weight. Still I would prefer a more comfy and quiet ride as opposed to PPV. And btw driving an SUV at high speeds makes you feel uneasy due to it's ride height.
DeleteOhh, it's 2079kg, as opposed to the M3 and Civic's 1322kg weight. 759kg difference, it really is a brick. The trailblazer's 27hp difference with the M3 or 7hp difference with the 1.5 Civic is nullified by the weight difference. (I included the 10% loss of engine power due to air resistance). I wish they could bring the 2.5 Mazda 3 here with 184hp, that would overpower the Civic's 1.5L engine with 173hp.
DeleteThe power to weight ratio of Colorado is 86Hp/ton
DeleteThe power to weight ratio of Civic is 132Hp/ton
There's your answer. The civic RS will smoke the colorado anytime of the day. Its not about HP ratings on paper. it's about the weight that the HP pulls that matters. You tube is your friend.
Can someone please ban auto freaking activ. He's nothing but a chevy salesperson trying to sell his crap product that cant sell because everybody is buying the Ranger or he's just trying to show off because he's compensating for something
ReplyDeleteHe's nothing but crap. Plain and simple. Worse than that Subaru guy.
DeleteBuy a car based SUV (Explorer, Santa Fe etc.) instead of these overpriced compacts if you want the speed and the versatility to go through rough pavement. With compacts, you're always concerned of scraping something or in for a jarring ride or catastrophic damage in rough roads.
ReplyDeleteI would choose the more civilized Explorer or the Santa Fe if money and parking space are not an object. Also, the base Sante Fe costs 400k more than the compacts priced at 1.2m, and the base explorer can buy you two top of the line compacts already. The base Santa Fe is very bare, the only gem there are the engine, ride quality, and the ground clearance. If you live in a nice place in the city, there's no need to get an SUV. I would rather not go in rough roads in my compact hatch. Also, Suv's can easily go through rough roads but you would destroy your tires in the process unless you replaced the stock tires with all terrain or off-road tires.
DeleteHi Ulysses. Would you know the km/L on this? I have the 2016 speed and I'm just getting 7-8 km/L in the city and about 14km/L sa highway. I was expecting mas fuel efficient siya before i bought it. Also, do you have tips dun sa pagsayad normally nun skirt? Thank you.
ReplyDeleteDid you have i-Stop on? I noticed if you turn i-Stop off, the city mileage would hover around 7 km/L. With it on (and I had it on the entire time) I did 8.5 km/L.
DeleteAs for the skirt, just be conscious when going over driveways and stuff. You can take them more diagonally. The 2017 has that problem because the skirts (and even the front lip spoiler) seem lower than the previous Speed model.
DeleteI think they lowered the Mazda 3 speed by 10cm, the super low ground clearance made us choose the Mazda 3 R instead.
DeleteHi Ulysses. I turn it off most of the time. Depending on the traffic. Kasi kung bumper to bumper traffic, medyo annoying din sya eh. Unless kung sobrang gamay mo na yun pressure on the breaks para hindi siya mag activate. But if bearable traffic, i leave it on.
DeleteSana sturdy naman tong mazda 3 like my previous car (an old vios) . Worry ko lang kasi baka mas madalas itong magkaproblema, mukang mas mahal ata ito imaintain.
By the way, hindi ba masama sa engine yun pag parating ginagamit yun i-stop? I understand it's part of the car's features pero parang i get this feeling na baka hindi siya ok in the long run. What are your thoughts about it? Thanks.
Changed the batteries at the dealership for my Mazda 3 and it costs P25k. istop requires special batteries which costs a lot more than regular ones and it drains them a lot faster usually a year or less in severe traffic. You end up paying more for the battery than saving in fuel.
DeleteHi. Is it a separate one? I mean pag madrain yun, pwede ko pa rin gamitin yung car na hindi lang gumagamit ng istop? Or kelangan na talaga palitan? So ngayon, hindi mo na ginagamit yun istop feature? Hala mukhang dapat ata cinonsider ko yun civic with maintenance in mind.
DeleteI read that there's a motolite alternative that costs around 13-14k. It's still more expensive than a regular battery though. I use istop all the time, but I had only been driving my M3 for less than 2 weeks now. I have an avg fuel consumption of 7km/l, maybe due to my driving habit. It's still new, less than 200km, so I expect the figure to rise in the future.
DeleteJust bought one, however, the spare tire is a 16 inch, while the four currently in use are 18 inches. Is that normal?
ReplyDeleteYes. The spare tire is a temporary type (t-type) spare. Advantage is that it takes up less space and weighs less than a regular tire, but disadvantage is you can't travel far or fast with it (maximum speed is 80 km/h).
DeleteAs for the size, yes that's normal. The 16 inch and 18 inch tires have the same overall diameter so it'll work fine. Be careful when you do decide to upgrade your tire size though. Make sure it's "plus sized" correctly.
Thank you.
DeleteFast, engaging... blah blah blah. What diffence would it make when you're stuck in a traffic jam? Tell me, car enthusiast folks out there!
ReplyDeleteI didn't enjoy the first drive of the mazda 3 that I just bought due to traffic and those pesky motorcycles, but I know I can enjoy it when traffic lightens up tomorrow when a significant amount of people are in the provinces and when traffic lightens up after christmas season. Mazda's istop also helps in saving fuel in traffic jams and the overtaking is a breeze with the 2.0 Mazda 3.
DeleteThanks, I have a mazda 3 2.0 as well but the 2008 version. I love the power it has, unfortunately it's very hard and costly to maintain. The spare parts are hard to find and if you happen to find one, a simple gear will cost you 20K and above. With this, I'll be switching to CiVic X. Sorry Mazda, I like you, but you're like a gf with high maintenance. Haha YEAH MAZDA, A SIMPLE REQUEST, FROM A FORMER LOVER. MAKE YOUR SPARE PARTS AFFORDABLE!!!!!
DeleteI have been driving around with my 2017 Mazda 3 for a week, but I haven't seen a single Mazda 3 on the road. They produce the best compact in the segment, yet, the only compact I see are boring Toyota Corollas. If you compare the equipment, material quality and price between the Mazda 3 and the Corolla, the Mazda 3 wins in all aspects, yet people still flock to Toyota dealerships to buy the Corolla. Brand worshipers perhaps?
DeleteMas marami pa akong nakitang Mazda 3 kesa Altis. Maybe Mazda 2 yung karamihan dun. I can't tell the difference between them (plus the 6) unless you look for the badge.
DeleteMazda 2's are smaller than the Mazda 3. The size alone will tell the difference and the fog lights. The difference in size is significant. The 6 is a large sedan, which you would mistake for a Mazda 3 from the front.
DeleteYayabang ng mga nega dito!!!baka puro hulugan lang kayo!! Haha! Kung ano feel nyo yun ang bilhin nyo!!
ReplyDeleteIkaw nga wala pambili. Kahit pang hulog wala.
ReplyDeleteCorollas are boring? Have you tried driving it? I have a '15 G MT Altis and hindi pa ko naunahan ng M3. FYI. And yes, more features ang M3 pero needed ba lahat yan? Or magagamit mo ba all the time? Altis is designed for better riding comfort and huge space inside. It is more practical and better brand image kaya people will chose Altis over your beloved M3.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't compare a 1.6 Altis to a 2.0 Mazda 3, but the Altis is a computer car, an example of what the author is talking about. Yes, I don't use all the features but it's better to have them than not have them. I agree that the Altis is a lot roomier and has more legroom than the Mazda 3, but I disagree about the brand image. I think most people would choose the Altis because they feel that it is a safe buy, and parts are readily available. So people buy the Altis due to it being more "practical" and has a "better brand image". That is why Toyota is making money out of you people, they offer less equipment at a more expensive price because they know people will still buy a Toyota even though the competitor offers a far superior product. Anyway, I'll enjoy my Mazda 3 while you enjoy your Altis. Good day.
Deletewhat's a computer car?
DeleteTechnically, all cars are computer cars, but there's something special about Mazda's skyactiv cars, they have that distinct quality feel and drive feel that trumps everyone else in the segment. The only downside is that they have less interior space than their competitors.
DeleteMerong computer ata lahat ng cars ngayon kuya liban kung 80s pa yung model
DeleteMazda fanboy - WTH is a computer car?
Delete"For the handful who appreciate driving, the Mazda3 is a godsend in a sea of cold, lifeless computer cars, be it turbocharged or not." -Ask the author.
DeleteComputer cars: cars which are good and accurate, but cold. Just like a computer. You don't exactly fall in love with your Lenovo laptop, right?
Deletemazda 3 speed here, duramax colorado and altis na 1.5 !? masyadong feeling ata kayo !? would love to see you prove what you're claiming and eat them at the same time!
ReplyDeleteI've been driving my Mazda 3 2.0 R for 2 weeks now and the avg fuel consumption is 7km/l. I was expecting around 8-10km/l. I drive casually most of the time.
ReplyDeleteFrom what I observed sa fellow Mazda 3 owners normal lang yun. Plus be prepared for the battery maintenance. Merong Japan na matibay na battery 25k but merong local na ok lang aabot minsan nang 1 year 15k.
DeleteDoes anyone know the ground clearance of the 2016/2017 Mazda 3 Hatchback?
ReplyDelete155 mm. Ground clearance is the same even with 2017 model. It's determined by the lowest metal part of the undercarriage not any protruding plastic part like skirts and stuff.
DeleteGood to know. Thanks, bud!
ReplyDeleteour CX5 also has iStop and yes, the Panasonic Japanese battery costs 25k, while the local Motolite version costs 14k but you can only get it from casa. We got the motolite which last just 13months (sakto sa end ng warranty). not worth it, looked at other options. Google AMARON. they provide amazing batteries, and the guys at Mazda 3 club and CX5 club are rocking amarons today. 5900 lang for the amaron pro. free delivery pa. :)
ReplyDeletedoes 2017 mazda Ph ver. has trunk open botton in car?
DeleteNope. You need to unlock the doors and there's a switch at the trunk lid base.
DeleteHi sir Uly, planning to buy either the Civic 1.8E or the Mazda 3 1.5 skyactiv since they are on relatively close price points. Leaning towards the civic pero im concerned about the 7km/l FC. is the mazda 3 1.5 skyactiv a better alternative?
ReplyDeleteJust got my Mazda 3 today. What a joy to drive! I don't want to go home anymore!
ReplyDeleteThe best car in its class overall, the drive, the quality, features, etc are excellent compared to any competitor. The only drawback is interior space could be better, but the sporty elegant design makes up for that.
ReplyDeletehi there. can't decide if i'll get the mazda 3 2.0 or the hyundai tucson crdi gls na lang since hindi sila nagkakalayo ng price after discount ng 100k sa tucson. planning to maintain kasi the car for maybe more than five years. which is more costly to maintain kaya? and how about the resale value? thanks anyone for the reply...
ReplyDeleteHi Ulysses! We are planning to buy the 2017 M3 R. Ano po yung FC nyo around the city? and ano po ung usual na dinadaanan nyo everyday? Ano rin po difference sa FC ng 1.5V sa 2.0R?
ReplyDeleteBased on my experiences,
Deletethe Mazda3 1.5 does about 10.30 km/L while the Mazda3 2.0 (with i-Stop on) does about 10.20 km/L (both tested in 2014 so traffic conditions are roughly the same).
Right now though, I'm managing around 8.7 km/L in the city for the 2.0.
Sir Uly, Honda City VX+ or Mazda 3 1.5? Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi po Ano po features na meron sa mazda3 2.0 na wla sa 1.5 maliban sa speed ah
ReplyDeleteJust finished reading all your comments. I'm getting a Mazda 3 1.5 (since my budget is 1M). I was so tempted to get a Honda Civic 1.8, but the extra 100k made me think twice since budget is a concern. Even if I will only be paying 20% of the total amount (thank you, company :)), the 100k isn't something I'm so easily willing to part with. Test drove the Mazda 3, and I was more than satisfied with the performance. I find the driver seats comfy and I can see better, since the Honda Civic seats are set so deep inside the car (test drove the Honda as well) - I hated the fact that even if the seat height has already been adjusted to the highest that it can go, I can only see the up to middle of the hood, hahaha! So uncomfortable for me.
ReplyDelete