Mazda 3 Saloon (04-08) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 23 March 2009
Small saloons don't usually sell well in Britain. The Mazda3 saloon is unlikely to buck the trend. Why? Like most models, the hatchback is the more popular choice as a practical family car. But the Mazda3 saloon looks good, is competitively priced and well specified. Developed from the same platform as the Ford Focus and Volvo S40, driving pleasure was a high priority for engineers, so it's good to drive. The range was given a mild reworking mid-2006, which improved fuel economy, lowered emissions and made it more civilized on the move. However, there's a limited range compared to the five-door and it's not as easy to sell on.
3 out of 5

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4.5 out of 5

Equipment

Entry-level TS models have four airbags, an alarm, remote central locking, CD stereo, electric front and rear windows and mirrors, ABS with electronic brake force distribution and emergency braking assistance, 15-inch alloys, air conditioning, driver's seat height adjustment and lumbar support plus steering wheel-mounted audio controls. TS2 models add automatic climate control, curtain airbags, traction control plus an electronic stability programme, 16-inch alloy wheels. Sport models add a premium audio system, 17-inch alloys and automatic xenon headlamps.

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Compare Equipment

Trim

Equipment

Key:

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  • 3x3 point rear seat belts
  • ABS
  • Air conditioning
  • Alarm
  • Alloy wheels
  • Audio remote
  • Body coloured bumpers
  • CD
  • CD Multichanger
  • Climate control
  • Cloth seat trim
  • Cruise control
  • Driver`s airbag
  • Electric mirrors
  • Folding rear seats
  • Front electric windows
  • Front fog lights
  • Headlight washers
  • Heated mirrors
  • Height adjustable drivers seat
  • Isofix child seat anchor points
  • Leather seat trim
  • Lumbar support
  • PAS
  • Passenger`s airbag
  • Rear electric windows
  • Remote locking
  • Side airbags
  • Space saver spare wheel
  • Steering wheel rake adjustment
  • Traction control
Takara TS TS2 Sport
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