2014 to Present: Mazda Mazda3
Following a customary six-year model run for the first-generation Mazda3, the second-generation model had a relatively short four-year product run. That abbreviated run coincided with a major change instituted by Mazda — its SKYACTIV technologies, composed of lighter vehicle frames along with more efficient engines and transmissions, were ready for a roll out. The best selling Mazda3 was a natural early adopter for the new layout.
Upon its debut, the third-generation Mazda3 offered SV, Sport, …show more content…
The first-generation model is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine making 148 horsepower and 135 foot-pounds of torque and paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. This model is EPA-rated at 24/32 mpg city highway.
Also available is a 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine making 160 horsepower and 150 foot-pounds of torque and is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission only. Beginning in 2006, a 5-speed automatic was paired with the larger engine. This model is EPA-rated at 21/26 mpg city/highway.
The second-generation Mazda3 was introduced in 2010, offering a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine and an available 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine. The smaller engine makes 148 horsepower and 135 foot-pounds of torque and is paired with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. This model is EPA-rated at 25/33 mpg city/highway.
The larger engine in the second-generation Mazda3 makes 167 horsepower and 168 foot-pounds of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Beginning in 2012, select Touring editions were outfitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission even as a 5-speed automatic was offered