2012 Mazda 3

Redesigned for the 2010 model year, the invigorated 2012 Mazda 3 is Mazda’s first application of SKYACTIV technologies in North America, receiving an all-new SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine as well as the all-new SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed routine transmission and all-new SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission. It also features better sporty driving dynamics, responsive handling and a comfortable cabin space. The exterior design also has been advanced to express a bolder stance, alongside new interior appointments creating additional functionality with no sacrificing the touch-and-feel quality. Additional safety skin complete the package.

The 2012 Mazda 3 facelift achieves a high density ratio of 12.0:1 and delivers 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 148 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm. (The PZEV account of this engine sold in California and other states produces 154 hp at 6,000 rpm and 148 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm).

The Mazda 3 sedan with the MZR 2.0-liter has an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 city/33 highway with the standard five-speed manual transmission and 24 city/33 highway with the elective five-speed automatic transmission.

Also, previously only available with the MZR 2.5-liter engine, the Mazda 3 five-door hatchback model will now be obtainable in the U.S. with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine. This Mazda 3 hatchback is predictable to deliver 27 city/38 highway (SKYACTIV-MT) and 28 city/38 highway (SKYACTIV-Drive AT). The slightly lower highway estimates can be credited to different aerodynamics and the higher weight ratio between the sedan and hatchback. However, the hatchback’s driving range remains imposing with more than 500 miles of driving on the same sized tank as the sedan. The MZR 2.0-liter engine will not be obtainable in the hatchback model.