2004-2008 Mazda 3: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mazda replaced its Prot¿g¿ subcompact for 2004 with a slightly larger new car called the Mazda 3. Mazda 3 came in 4-dr sedan and hatchback body styles. The sedan was available in base "i" trim and uplevel "s" form. The hatchback came only as an s model. Two 4-cyl engines were available: a 148-hp 2.0 liter for i models, a 160-hp 2.3 for s versions. With either engine, a 5-speed manual transmission came standard; a 4-speed automatic with manual shift gate was optional. The i model had 15-inch wheels or optional 16s. The s sedan came with 16s; 17s were included in its Sport Package option. The hatchback had 17s. Front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and ABS were grouped in a single option package for all models. Options exclusive to s versions were leather upholstery, a navigation system, and a package that consisted of a tire-pressure monitor and xenon headlights. Air conditioning was optional on the i model, standard on s versions.