AUTO RED BOOK REVIEW: 2010 MAZDA3

ARB On The Cover Review: 2010 Mazda3

The Mazda3 is a bit like ordering a fat-free yogurt cup, then dumping hot fudge and whipped cream on top. On one hand, it fits right in with the guilt-free, small four-cylinder crowd. The problem is, you might actually enjoy driving it, which means something's in there that might not be good for you. The high fat content in this case comes in the form of mediocre gas mileage. The 2.0-liter four achieves 33-mpg on the highway, and the optional 2.5-liter four can only muster up an average highway mpg of 29. Some mid-sized sedans can better those numbers. But there's more to life than counting calories, and the 3 offers a little mild indulgence with smooth, plentiful power, relatively crisp, precise handling, and an interesting, refined cockpit. It is easy to pick a 2010 Mazda3 out of the crowd because it now features an exaggerated, clown-like grin across the front fascia. The grill-treatment should remind you that you're not driving your typical econo-box. And anyway, who wants to worry about the consequences when hot fudge tastes this good. At least you didn't order some huge land-barge. And that has to count for something, right? Right!

Comments

[J.Stephens]

and yet another fabulous reviwe...