More than 15 years have passed since the release of the first version of Mazda 3. Since then, the company has released three generations of the model, each of which has become popular. Drivers appreciate this car for its attractive exterior design, good driving performance, and a high level of safety of all systems. One of the most important indicators is the clearance on the Mazda 3. Thanks to him, the car can overcome various obstacles and even drive off-road.
Model Description
Even before the appearance of the serial model, the company developed a proprietary concept "Mazda MX Sportif". It was shown at the Geneva Auto Show in 2003. This development served as the basis for the creation of a new model called "Mazda 3". In the photo, the crossover corresponds to the corporate identity of the auto corporation, which was later applied in other cars, for example, in the Mazda 6. The third model of the Japanese company replaced its predecessor with the index 323 and was a Golf class car.
The success of the first generation Mazda 3 is a symbiosis of successful design, interior comfort characteristics, excellent handling and an affordable price. During the period of release (2003-2009) more than a million car enthusiasts all over the world voted for the "three" from Mazda with their wallets. Mazda 3 in the first version became one of the bestsellers of the C class.
Nothing lasts forever, and in the modern auto world with its fierce competition it is difficult to maintain a leadership position. The premieres of the new Mazda 3, based on continental body preferences, took place strictly within the framework of the rules of marketing science. The successor to the bestselling Mazda3 (sedan) of the second generation was presented to the public in November 2008 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new Mazda 3 hatchback appeared a month later in all its glory in Bologna (Italy). In America, the new Mazda 3 2012 is selling well ( she will also remain a 2013 model) in a sedan, Europeans prefer a hatchback.
The appearance of the new Mazda 3 model 2013 is based on the proprietary Mazda design philosophy Nagare (flowing water flow), tested on and Mazda 6. Carrying out a review of the 2012 Mazda3 model, you notice that in the front of the car, the bumper seems to combine a false radiator grille and a front aerodynamic element ... The "smile" of the central air intake together with the aesthetic load is practical, it is designed to direct the air flow for effective cooling of the motor.
The front fairing in its arsenal also boasts side slots of the air ducts with foglights integrated into it. The almond-shaped front lighting is the watershed between the bonnet and the rounded front wheel arches. In profile, the 2012 Mazda 3 review demonstrates the swift lines of the sidewalls, gently flowing to the stern of the roof, they personify the dynamics and sportiness of the car from Mazda. The rear of the second generation of the triplet, having absorbed the best features of the stern of its predecessor, acquired a more solid appearance. The lighting technology in the family tradition has something in common with the older Mazda 6.
Dimensions and ground clearance
Having survived the reincarnation, the new Mazda troika retained its familiar features, becoming more harmonious. Increased in length, the increase was 45-90 mm, depending on the body, while maintaining the size of the base. Dimensions Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback - length 4580 (4460) mm, width - 1755 mm, height - 1470 mm, base - 2640 mm. Speaking of dimensions, it is important to note the ground clearance (clearance) of the updated Mazda 3 - 155 mm.
Ergonomics and interior trim
Devices in two separate wells, soft plastic of the front dashboard, massive central tunnel with good ergonomics of control. Salon Mazda 3 of the second generation has a multifunctional, grippy steering wheel, comfortable front seats with characteristic lateral support. Driver's and passenger's seats with an extended cushion and a wide range of adjustments (optionally with an electric drive). The first row is comfortable and convenient, which cannot be said about the seats in the second row. There is still a lack of legroom in the back, only two people will be able to comfortably accommodate. Salon Mazda 3 evokes the idea of the similarity of the interior decoration of modern cars. It seems to be made with high quality and beautiful, but boring. Only the “assistant” - the manufacturer's logo on the steering wheel - helps to distinguish the salons. The first Mazda 3 was embarrassed by its weak sound insulation, the engineers managed to improve its performance (by as much as 10%).
Luggage compartment in sedan and hatchback bodies
The trunk of the Mazda 3 sedan offers its owners a loading volume of 430 liters.
The trunk of the Mazda 3 hatchback has a volume of 340 liters, with the rear seats folded down, the loading capacity increases significantly.
Specifications
The chassis for the updated Mazda 3 migrated from its predecessor, front and rear independent suspension. The front suspension of the troika is with MacPherson struts, the rear suspension is multi-link.
On the Russian market, Mazda 3 is offered only with gasoline engines:
- Engine 1.6 l. (105 hp) with 5 manual gearboxes or 4 automatic gearboxes;
- Engine 2.0 l. (150 hp) with a 5-speed automatic.
- The charged Mazda 3 MPS 2.3 (260 hp) with 6 steps mechanics stands apart.
- Three more diesels are available in Europe: 1.6 liters. (115 hp), 2.2 liters. (150.hp) and 2.2 liters. (185 hp), all work with a 6-speed manual.
Driving performance
The first generation Mazda troika delighted its owners with a sporty suspension, responsive steering, responsive motors. The entire arsenal is present on the new three, the test of the Mazda 3 2012 updated shows that the car has become even a little tougher, sharper, more balanced.
Mazda 3 2012 release - price
The modern automotive marketing and pricing strategy is based on a simple principle: the manufacturer slightly changes the car and the new product is ready. Truth and the price is steadily increasing. The price of the Mazda 3 (sedan) 2012 in Russia starts at 628,000 rubles for the initial set of Direkt 1.6 liters. (105 hp) with mechanics. For this money, the new Mazda 3 Direkt will have: central locking, a driver's seat lift, front power windows, an on-board computer, ABC-EBD-DSC, front and side airbags, 15 steel wheels, a radio tape recorder with MP3. For the air conditioner you will have to pay 32,500 rubles.
The new Mazda 3 2011 release will cost a little less. Price Mazda 3 2 l. (150 hp) with 5АКП, with rich equipment, starts at 907,000 rubles. The price of Mazda 3 MPS starts at 1,216,000 rubles.
Mazda 3 (hatchback) costs 10,000 rubles more than a similar sedan configuration.
Mazda 3 will soon have a new real competitor in the class -.
Here you will find information about the ground clearance (clearance) of the Mazda3. Published official information and reviews of the real owners of this car.
You can also give your opinion by writing it in the comment form located at the bottom of the page.
Reviews of the owners of Mazda 3 (found on the Internet)
- For me, the clearance would be normal, it would have been larger - it would have affected the dynamics. I drive through a policeman with a full load, I do not cling to anything. It is worth noting that the car is still new - the mileage is only 400 km, but anyway, conclusions can be drawn. We'll see it back in the winter.
- It seems normal, I don't know exactly how much I have, but obviously not less than one hundred and fifty
- The ground clearance is just awful. Four garages and I can’t go to any of them normally.
- There are both Focus and Mazda 3. Focus - clearly above the lumen.
- I pass the speed bumps somehow. Too small for me.
- I have a Mazda in a new body. A colleague has an old body. We put 2 cars one-to-one, the result: the ground clearance is 1-2 cm less for the old one.
- The clearance is normal, even I drive around the village every day, I drive through it carefully everywhere. For 3500 km of run I caught it once, and then in the courtyards on the bardyur.
- Traveled 4000. Already several times sat on the belly in the yard!
- Previously, on the old one with the usual protection, the bottom clings to everything. Now I put on a new one made of a polymer alloy of carbon. So far, I have been teranulized only a couple of times. (already 9000 km of run)
- 15 cm is quite normal, three years ago I had three, it seemed to be sitting high, I hooked on a country road less often than a Muscovite ...
- And last week we had a pile of snow, as I, like a bulldozer, rowed the snow with the front bumper. I don’t go into the courtyards at all. So the matryoshka is a summer version of the car. You need to think what to take for the winter now.
The exterior design of the Mazda 3 restyled version is impressive at first glance. The light and graceful lines of the body form an overall approach to the exterior design. This is a very harmonious and sporty character reflected in the sophisticated appearance. The front end has a large radiator grille with powerful chrome surround and horizontal metal lines. Headlights halogen, with a beautiful pattern. The sculpted front bumper features a small air intake and two powerful LED fog lights. The rear part has a spoiler and stylish taillights, the bumper includes protection in which the exhaust pipes are located.
The interior of the Mazda 3 hatchback is truly elegant and ergonomic. It includes a variety of appropriate decorative metal inserts. They accentuate various elements of the interior and give a more expensive look to the interior. The dashboard has not changed, it consists of one large well with a tachometer and two side compartments, where there are two screens for displaying information. The steering wheel is three-spoke, comfortable with functional control buttons and a lower metal insert. The main element of the interior is the center console with elements of semi-matt chrome. At the very top is the 7-inch color TFT display of the MZD Connect multimedia system. It is not only capable of playing multimedia files, but also has the ability to connect third-party devices, as well as display various information and settings. Below is the control panel for climate and other car functions. There is a lot of space in the cabin, the quality of materials is at a high level. The front seats are comfortable and have very good lateral support, as does the rear row. The luggage compartment has a volume of 308 liters, with the seats folded, these figures will be several times higher.Mazda 3 - prices and configurations
Mazda 3 hatchback on the Russian market is offered in one configuration "Active Plus". For her, one gasoline naturally aspirated engine and one automatic transmission with 6 steps are presented.
The equipment of the "Active Plus" configuration is as follows: climate control, electric power steering, on-board computer, tire pressure sensor, steering wheel height and reach. Salon: fabric interior, leather trim for gearshift lever and steering wheel, multifunctional steering wheel, heated front seats, four power windows, front center armrest, third rear headrest. Overview: fog lights, headlight washer, electric and heated mirrors. Multimedia: audio system CD, AUX, USB, Bluetooth. Unfortunately, it will not work to expand the available functionality and equipment, since there are no available paid options.
More details about the prices and trim levels of the Mazda 3 hatchback in the table below:
Mazda 3 - specifications
Mazda 3 of the third generation, a restyled version is available on the Russian market with one gasoline naturally aspirated engine running on modern SkyActiv technology, which improves engine performance and retains all the advantages of an atmospheric power unit, namely greater durability and reliability than turbocharged power units. Petrol 1.5 liter engine with 120 hp. shows good dynamics in combination with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h takes 11.9 seconds. The maximum torque is 150 Nm at 4000 rpm. The maximum power is observed at 6000 rpm. The arrangement of the cylinders is in-line.
The car's suspension is fairly standard for the C-class. Front - independent, spring type MacPherson. Rear - independent, spring multi-link. The suspension settings are adjusted to the Russian operating conditions, they allow to improve handling and achieve softness even on a sufficiently low-quality road surface, and also improves the stability of the car at high speeds. The front brakes are ventilated discs. The rear ones are disc.
More details about the technical characteristics of the Mazda 3 hatchback in the table below:
| Specifications Mazda 3 3rd generation restyling | |
| Engine | 1.5 AT 120 HP |
| general information | |
| Country brand | Japan |
| Vehicle class | C |
| Number of doors | 5 |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Performance Indicators | |
| Maximum speed, km / h | 190 |
| Acceleration to 100 km / h, s | 11.9 |
| Fuel consumption, l city / highway / mixed | 7.4/4.9/5.8 |
| Fuel grade | AI-95 |
| Environmental class | Euro 5 |
| CO2 emissions in g / km | - |
| Engine | |
| engine's type | petrol |
| Engine location | front, transverse |
| Engine volume, cm³ | 1496 |
| Pressurization type | No |
| Maximum power, hp / kW at rpm | 120/88 at 6000 |
| Maximum torque, N * m at rpm | 150 at 4000 |
| Arrangement of cylinders | inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine power system | direct injection (direct) |
| Compression ratio | 14 |
| Cylinder diameter and piston stroke, mm | 74.5 × 85.8 |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission | machine |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| type of drive | front |
| Dimensions in mm | |
| Length | 4470 |
| Width | 1795 |
| Height | 1450 |
| Wheelbase | 2700 |
| Clearance | 155 |
| Front track width | 1555 |
| Rear track width | 1560 |
| Wheel dimensions | 205/60 / R16, 215/45 / R18 |
| Volume and mass | |
| Fuel tank volume, l | 51 |
| Curb weight, kg | 1302 |
| Full weight, kg | 1835 |
| Trunk volume min / max, l | 308 |
| Suspension and brakes | |
| Front suspension type | independent, spring |
| Rear suspension type | independent, spring |
| Front brakes | ventilated disc |
| Rear brakes | disk |
Mazda 3 - advantages
Mazda 3 is a car with its own history. It is extremely attractive, has a spacious interior and, most importantly, functional. Many modern systems and equipment are available for it. Including a very interesting multimedia system with a lot of possibilities.
From a technical point of view, they tried to make the car reliable and dynamic. Mazda engineers tried to fine-tune the car's suspension, find the optimal engine and select the most efficient transmission. And they did it. Quite good dynamics is perfectly combined with the softness of the ride and energy-intensive suspension, while it was possible not only to maintain, but also to slightly improve handling.
Mazda 3 - possible competitors
The Mazda 3 has vivid competitors that have a lot to offer and impress. First of all, this is a greater variety, the presence of various configurations and options for an engine with a transmission, but also additional paid options that allow you to significantly expand the functionality for a small additional price.
Ford Focus is one of the most attractive and best-selling vehicles on the Russian market. Has earned its reputation as a reliable, spacious, comfortable and functional hatchback. It has an attractive exterior with a large selection of power units and transmissions. Paid options are offered for it, which allows you to significantly expand the functionality at a low cost.
Volkswagen Golf 7 - from a technical point of view, a truly modern and functional car. Possesses some of the best dynamic and technical performance. Thanks to the excellent suspension settings and the work of the stabilization system, it shows incredible handling. It has at its disposal the most modern technologies and a wide range of engines with rich configurations.
The Hyundai i30 is a Korean representative that boasts one of the richest trim levels in the class. Without any kind of paid options, it has advanced functionality, a bright exterior, a very stylish interior, but most importantly, a lot of space. Reliable and economical power units capable of providing excellent dynamic performance are presented for the car.
Kia Ceed is one of the most famous cars of the company. It is presented with various dynamic power units, it has quite good configurations with great functionality and various equipment. It has excellent handling, charismatic appearance and spacious interior at its disposal.
The Peugeot 308 is a French representative that boasts many things. For example, powerful enough engines, modern automatic transmission and very rich trim levels. In addition, it has a bright and sporty appearance, and the interior of the cabin is striking at first glance with its uniqueness. The car has rich trim levels, while more expensive than the Mazda 3.
Mazda 3 - fuel consumption
The Mazda 3 has only one engine at its disposal which shows good fuel economy figures. In the combined cycle, it consumes 5.8 liters per 100 km of track, and in the urban cycle only 7.4 liters.
Mazda 3 - photo
Mazda 3 - ground clearance
Mazda 3 has a good ground clearance of 155 mm.
Mazda 3 - owner reviews
In this article, you can leave a review about the Mazda 3 hatchback of the third generation of the restyled version.
More than 15 years have passed since the release of the first version of Mazda 3. Since then, the company has released three generations of the model, each of which has become popular. Drivers appreciate this car for its attractive exterior design, good driving performance, and a high level of safety of all systems. One of the most important indicators is the clearance on the Mazda 3. Thanks to him, the car can overcome various obstacles and even drive off-road.
Model Description
Even before the appearance of the serial model, the company developed a proprietary concept "Mazda MX Sportif". It was shown at the Geneva Auto Show in 2003. This development served as the basis for the creation of a new model called "Mazda 3". In the photo, the crossover corresponds to the corporate identity of the auto corporation, which was later applied in other cars, for example, in the Mazda 6. The third model of the Japanese company replaced its predecessor with the index 323 and was a Golf class car.
Body parameters
Motorists are offered two body types to choose from: a five-door hatchback and a sedan with 4 doors. Dimensions - 1450x4585x1795 (height, length, width). The exterior design of the body is made in a sporty aggressive style. This effect is further enhanced by the branded head optics and the sloping roofline on the Mazda 3. The photos presented on the company's website show that during the development of the design, the company used the basic concept of "MAIDAS". The system assumes that energy is absorbed and distributed after the collision. Thanks to this, the passengers in the car will be safe.
The hatchback was the first to come off the assembly line; about a year later, the company's engineers developed a four-door sedan. When comparing these versions, it becomes clear that the hatchback has a more sporty look, while the design of the sedan has more strict lines. The C1 platform is named one of the most reliable. It was used in the development of the Ford Focus 2 car, as well as for the creation of other models from the Japanese company.
Clearance
During the creation of different generations of the Mazda 3, the developers have repeatedly experimented with the clearance height. This indicator is measured from the center of the body to the road surface. The ground clearance on Mazda 3 according to technical characteristics in the first generations was made up to 165 mm on sedans and hatchbacks. This distance is sufficient for the car to drive freely on any kind of road, including driving on unpaved surfaces. In addition, you need to take these parameters into account when parking near curbs on Mazda 3.
You can increase the ground clearance if you are planning to travel on a loaded car. It should be noted that this figure may become lower. The curb weight of the vehicle is 1145-1170 kg, so the additional load should not be heavier than 450 kg. The ground clearance for the next generations has become slightly less. Depending on the subtype of the body, it was 150-160 mm. But this did not affect the dynamic qualities of the car in any way. The foreign car, as before, received good reviews from motorists.
If you are not satisfied with the clearance height, then you can change this indicator up or down, make a decrease or increase in the clearance of "Mazda 3". When you want to make the ground clearance more, special spacers are placed under the shock absorbers. It should be borne in mind that after raising the body, maneuverability and stability at high speeds will become worse.
In some cases, it is necessary to perform not an increase in the clearance of the Mazda 3, but a decrease in it. Then the shock absorbers supplied by the manufacturer are replaced with devices that are offered in specialized car dealerships. They sell various tuning parts there. Despite the fact that the landing of the car is getting smaller, handling will continue to delight drivers who prefer the low ground clearance of the Mazda 3.
Specifications
One of the main advantages of this car is that it has a reliable chassis. Suspension is the robust Mcpherson design found on many other models. The front part is mounted on a subframe, at the rear the structure is represented by a multi-link system.
The chassis of all generations of Mazda 3 has a long service life. However, it is necessary to carry out diagnostics after driving more than 20,000 km. The following work on checking the mechanisms is carried out after the car has traveled the same distance. For drivers who regularly travel off-road, it is recommended to perform diagnostic procedures even more often to prevent sudden damage to the chassis.
If you have special tools and conditions, you can perform the "hodovka" repair actions yourself. It is not difficult to replace the following elements:
- gaskets;
- anthers;
- silent blocks;
- anti-roll bars;
- rubber bands.
You can also replace the bearings yourself, you just need to first study the relevant information or consult with an automotive technician so as not to completely redo all the work.
Innovations
On the second and third generation Mazda 3, the latest features were installed. The system was named "i-ACTIVSENSE". It includes such innovations:
- radar and navigation equipment;
- signal about the transition to the inappropriate lane;
- automatic switching on of headlights with high beam;
- display located on the windshield;
- blind spot induction.
The headlights for high-beam lighting turn on automatically if the on-board computer detects the presence of an oncoming vehicle at a certain distance. This is a very important function that improves road safety. This list also includes a special warning system that there is an obstacle in the path of the vehicle. If the driver does not respond to the warning, the brake is applied and the car stops.
Engine
The line of motors, which were installed on the Mazda 3 car, deserves special attention. Engines are offered at the choice of motorists. They have different capacities and can run on both gasoline and diesel fuel.
The power unit, which was on the first version, had a performance of 105 hp. and belonged to the MZR type. It was equipped with a phase stepping function, which is responsible for the operation of the intake valves. The system contributes to more efficient operation of the engine in any mode.
Motorists can purchase a model with a 1.5-liter petrol engine. It was named "SKYACTIV-G". The power plant has a displacement of 1.5 and a power of 99 hp. Despite the low power compared to other engines of the same manufacturer, a car with such an engine reaches speeds of up to 183 km / h. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in just 11.9 seconds.
Another option, presented in the Russian car market, is an engine of the same type with a capacity of 120 liters. with. It boasts a volume of up to 2000 cubic centimeters. Acceleration to hundreds of kilometers from a standstill takes 9.2 seconds. Both installations are economical. In the mode of driving on the highway, it will be 4.9-6 liters / 100 km.
Another representative of the engine line is the diesel version with a volume of 2.2 liters. It is completely made according to the Euro-6 standard, which speaks of reliability. The power of the device is equal to 150 horsepower. It is capable of accelerating to a maximum of 210 km / h. Other advantages of this engine include even greater fuel economy at this power. On average, it is 6.8 liters. If the driver drives more often on major roads, then the consumption is reduced by 20%.
Transmission
The gearboxes have been specially matched to the engines developed. The latest generation models were equipped with both automatic and mechanical types. The first option has four gearshift modes. The machine was named "Actievematic" for its sporty character.
The manual transmission has 5 stages of operation. It is distinguished by the ease of gear shifting, which the designers were able to achieve by reducing frictional losses in half.
Brakes
The braking system of the new Mazda 3 also belongs to the systems that increase the reliability of movement. The vehicle's ground clearance allows you to install modern brake blocks that meet international standards. In the front part there are ventilated discs, while the manufacturer equips the rear block with simple mechanisms, which also have high reliability.
