--- A Well-Heeled Alternative: Mazda 3 2.5 S Premium Hatchback Review As a long-standing member of the Save the Manuals! tribe, I'm always excited to discover a car that offers a gearbox that requires a bit of driver engagement. The Mazda 3 2.5 S Premium Hatchback is just that—a stylish, well-appointed, and surprisingly enjoyable car that's also a viable alternative to the VW GTI. The interior is where this car truly shines, with its soft, premium materials and tasteful design. The Bose 12-speaker stereo, power driver's seat with power lumbar and memory, heated front seats, and leather-covered steering wheel all contribute to a sense of luxury that's hard to find in more affordable cars. And while the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four engine may not have the same level of performance as the GTI, it's more than sufficient for daily driving duties. But the real star of the show is the ...
—
A Well-Heeled Alternative: Mazda 3 2.5 S Premium Hatchback Review
As a long-standing member of the Save the Manuals! tribe, I’m always excited to discover a car that offers a gearbox that requires a bit of driver engagement. The Mazda 3 2.5 S Premium Hatchback is just that—a stylish, well-appointed, and surprisingly enjoyable car that’s also a viable alternative to the VW GTI.
The interior is where this car truly shines, with its soft, premium materials and tasteful design. The Bose 12-speaker stereo, power driver’s seat with power lumbar and memory, heated front seats, and leather-covered steering wheel all contribute to a sense of luxury that’s hard to find in more affordable cars. And while the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four engine may not have the same level of performance as the GTI, it’s more than sufficient for daily driving duties.
But the real star of the show is the six-speed manual gearbox. It’s a joy to use, with an effortless clutch action and smooth shifting that makes it a pleasure to drive in both city and country roads. The Mazda 3’s handling is also surprisingly agile, with a progressive steering feel and a comfortable ride that’s neither too firm nor too soft.
Of course, the GTI is still the more dialed-in driver’s car, with its sharper steering and more responsive handling. But the Mazda 3 is a close second, and its more relaxed demeanor makes it a great option for those who want a fun, yet comfortable driving experience.
In terms of performance, the Mazda 3 is no slouch, with a 0-60 time of 7.0 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 15.6 seconds at 91 mph. It’s not quite as quick as the GTI, but it’s still plenty fast for most driving situations.
Overall, the Mazda 3 2.5 S Premium Hatchback is a great option for those who want a stylish, well-appointed car with a manual transmission. It’s a bit pricier than the GTI, but its unique blend of luxury and driving enjoyment makes it a worthwhile investment.
COMMENTS