For music lovers, the optional Tech Package includes a great Bose® 10-speaker system that delivers full Centerpoint® Surround Sound with Audiopilot® noise compensation from which you can play your MP3 encoded music from a CD, Bluetooth audio device, or portable MP3 player. You needn’t bother turning the volume up and down as road noise and vehicle speed increase. Audiopilot continually makes minor adjustments to the music to offset unwanted ambient noise.
New for 2010 is onboard navigation system which is included in the Tech Package. The navigation system is very petite and non-obtrusive; neatly tucked away in the center dash near the driver’s natural line of sight. Navigation systems are a luxury not usually available as an option in cars of this class. It’s a simple model, but relatively easy-to-use. Navigation controls are conveniently available to the driver on the steering wheel. The screen might be a little small and distant for some to see, but if that’s your biggest complaint, perhaps some stronger glasses might be in order.
The only tech feature I had difficulty with was the Bluetooth hands-free phone system – which is a standard feature with the GT trim. Compared to some other systems, the one found in the MAZDA3 was less intuitive and finicky. If any mistakes were made in the profile setup, the voice-recognition program would shoot back to the beginning start menu. Definitely a little irritating, but once the profile was setup, it was okay when connected. But that leads to another issue, the Bluetooth system had difficulty acquiring my wireless signal. So my phone would be connected only occasionally. It could have been a glitch in the tested model, but something to be aware of when test driving.
My absolute favorite part of this car was the optional keyless remote and push-button ignition. This feature is similarly found on Audis, Infinitis, BMWs, and the like but definitely not a feature found in other cars within the MAZDA3 class. Ladies, tuck those keys deep in your purse and never again worry about frantically fishing for them. As long as your keys are on your person, you can get into the car without ever taking the key out of your purse! Just push the handy little door open button and the car door opens (this is true for the 2 front doors and the hatchback door on our tested model). And then press the start/stop ignition button and you’re on your way. It was so simple and made my driving experience that much easier. After being spoiled by this feature, it’ll be something I include on my “wish-list” for my next car.
Overall, Mazda seems to have done it again. They seemed to have struck a perfect harmony between utility, luxury and fun and cost. Our Grand Touring test model, with Tech Package and optional Crystal White Pearl Mica paint, was just over $25k. A great value, but no longer considered inexpensive. For the budget conscious who don’t need all the fancy features, delete a couple of options or choose the Sport model with a base price of $20,290 and you can get one of the best valued cars on the market. Smiles all around!
| MORE EXPERT REVIEWS | |
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First Impressions: 2010 Mazda MAZDA3 GT w/Techie Package Induces Smiles All Around Rating:  by Mary Ellen Ash “Based on pure car value, this is one of the best cars on the market. Comparing all the features included in this car, for the price, it’s arguably the best valued car in its class.” |
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2010 Mazda MAZDA3 Review – A First Drive with Mazda’s Remodeled Moneymaker Rating: by Kurt Gensheimer “Even though the new 3 gives up a little in the acceleration department, it absolutely hasn’t lost any edge with its adroit handling.” |
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2009 Mazda MAZDA3 Review – The Renaissance Car Rating:  by Kurt Gensheimer “The MAZDA3 family, which includes the sedan, the hatchback and of course the rubber-melting Mazdaspeed3, performs in every category with remarkable success.” |
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2008 Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Review – Mazda Go Zoom-Zoom Rating: by Gary Chan “Mash the throttle, get the revs over 3500 rpm, and you’re in the power band. Keep it above 3500 and you’ll be grinning from ear-to-ear.” |
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 Official website for Mazda cars, trucks, and SUVs – www.mazdausa.com |
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Do you really hate the car or just the fact that the OEM tires wore out at $15k miles?
Lots of good high performance summer and all-season tires to choose, so there is no need to buy another set S34 tires that didn’t work for you.
I hate this car. They put YOKOHAMA S34 tires and worn out after 15K. If you buy this car, be prepare to buy new set of tires every 15K.
Love the car but
I hate the cardboard cheap felt carpets!!
and the redial function in the bluetooth does not work!!
The swivel headlights and Audiopilot are gimmicks I can easily do without.