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2008.5 Mazda3 Sport GX Review

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Michel Deslauriers
It was worth the .5-year wait
The 2.0-liter engine does the job nicely

Dear Mazda,
I tested the performance of the GX model, and according to my calculations, it accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds, which is quick enough. I also observed a fuel economy average of 9.4 L/100 km, which is okay I guess. Should I consider the 2.3-liter engine instead, which only offers 8 more horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque and uses more fuel?

I tested the performance of the GX model, and I obtained a 0  to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds.

Also, I heard that the GX's ride is more comfortable than the GT's, and that the noise level at highway speeds is a little lower. Will I find the same dynamic driving characteristics in the base model?

Dear Consumer,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the Mazda3 Sport's "Zoom-Zoom" powertrain choices. Although the 2.0-liter engine provides plenty of "Zoom-Zoom" performance, the 2.3-liter engine offers an extra dose of "Zoom-Zoom". And yes, the 2.0-liter is slightly more fuel-efficient.

As for handling characteristics, The Mazda3 Sport GX benefits from the same "Zoom-Zoom" steering calibrations as the GT. The "Zoom-Zoom" suspension is also the same in all trim levels, although with the higher-profile 15-inch tires, you will feel a "Zoom-Zoom" difference. Did we mention that the Mazda3 is full of "Zoom-Zoom"?

The back seat is still hard to access

Dear Mazda,
A friend of mine owns a Mazda 3 and I find the back seat very hard to climb into. The rear doors don't open very wide and there isn't much room to set my feet in. I saw that you now have a new 2008.5 version; has rear-seat access been improved?

Otherwise, I really like how well-finished the cockpit of the car is, and how comfortable the seats are. I hope these things haven't changed with the new model.

Dear Consumer,
As the 2008.5 is a mid-year enhancement to the popular Mazda3 line, the car retains its excellent qualities. Concerning the rear doors, we haven't changed anything, but we appreciate your feedback, which we will consider for future improvements.

I really like how well-finished the cockpit of the car is, and how comfortable the seats are.
Michel Deslauriers
Michel Deslauriers
Automotive expert
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