2014 Mazda 3 Review Updates and Feedback

The Mazda 3 Hatch: A Mixed Bag of Features and Flaws

As we've had the opportunity to put some miles on the Mazda 3 hatch, it's time to dive into some quick updates and observations. One feature that stands out is the convenience and practicality of the hatchback design. In a hypothetical fight, you could simply throw your enemies into the back of this vehicle, as it would cut them in half with ease. However, I must note that I've experienced this feature firsthand, albeit unintentionally, and it's not as appealing as it sounds.

The hatch's tray is like a razor blade, as evidenced by my own encounters with it. I've managed to cut my head, hand, and even the webbing on my fingers due to its sharp edges. This makes it a disaster in real-life situations, especially when running into other vehicles at high speeds. Furthermore, the release button for opening the hatch is inconveniently located, taking up space that could be used for the rearview camera. This has led to me getting fingerprints all over the camera, causing the display to become blurry at night.

However, one aspect of the Mazda 3 hatch that's been a pleasant surprise is its cargo space. It's indeed a lot of room for cargo, considering it's part of the class. Unfortunately, there is a notable lack of occupancy space in the back seat, particularly for larger individuals. This limitation can make it difficult to accommodate multiple passengers, especially when trying to fit them comfortably.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, I was initially worried due to my previous experiences with other cars. However, the 2L engine has proven to be quite efficient, providing an impressive 37 miles per gallon over seven or eight fill-ups. Mazda's attention to detail is indeed a strength of their models, as evidenced by features like ergonomic thumb placement on the steering wheel. The little indentations are designed specifically for high-performance driving enthusiasts, allowing their thumbs to fit perfectly onto the wheel.

The Soul Red Metallic paint job has become a new fixture in Mazda's lineup and can be found on various models, including the MX-5, CX-5, and 3. It looks great in sunlight, but I've noticed that it does have its share of orange peel. Additionally, the piano gloss plastic trim and black accents are a nice touch, although they do require more maintenance than other colors. The concern with these dark features is that they can attract dust and dirt easily, which can be frustrating to clean.

Moving on to interior quality, I've been pleased with what I've experienced so far. However, one minor annoyance has become apparent: the armrest creaks whenever I put my arm on it after about 2,000 miles. This plastic is prone to cracking and making an unpleasant noise. On a more positive note, the ride of the Mazda 3 hatch is extremely firm yet sporty, providing a responsive driving experience even with eco tires. The steering remains responsive in choppy pavement, but there are some minor issues with suspension clunk coming from the front end.

Finally, I've encountered a few issues with the infotainment system, such as freezing up occasionally. Fortunately, these problems have been minimal and haven't significantly impacted my driving experience. Overall, I'm pleased with the Mazda 3 hatch and would recommend it to those in the market for a hatchback.