My Daughter purchased this exact car in Red based on this review and a test drive. It is EVERYTHING you said it was. It just feels like a so much more expensive car and an absolute blast to drive ! There is a ton of room in the back and the 60/40 split seats make it great for three people and a lot of luggage. Do yourself a favor and go buy this car !!!
Why wouldn't you pan the camera over the center controls area while you are talking about it? Why do I need to see your face and listen to you describe it when you could simply film it? Seems like a no brainer to me.
Thanks for all of your input. Yes, the Mazda3 does have an armrest center console. In fact it's been lifted from the big brother Mazda6 and it very very nice. The lid is hinged, covering a bin with a power outlet. In front of that are the cup holders which are closeable via a sliding cover. next in line are the audio controls, then shifter.
I have one - a 2017 6 speed 2.5 touring hatchback white with black interior. It's one of the best most comfortable and nice cars to drive with sufficient sportiness to make driving fun the way it used to be.
The 2017 Mazda3 has EPA estimates much lower than the 2016 model. Using the 4-door 2.0L as en example, the 2016 model was rated at 34/30/41 at release. That was revised to 33/30/40 under 2017 reformulation. The 2017 model is rated at just 32/28/37. The Mazda6 has a very similar YoY reduction in EPA estimates. But the CX-3 does not, it has just a reduction of 1 MPG highway consistent with the impact of the 2017 reformulation on the Mazda3 and Mazda6. My best guess is that it's because of G-Vectoring control. Dave Coleman said the torque reduction is (normally) achieved by retarding ignition timing, so maybe it interferes with running the engine at optimal efficiency. The Mazda3 and Mazda6 have GVC new in the 2017 model, while the CX-3 does not have GVC. What do you think? Does Grappone have contacts with Mazda that could get the answer? (Sorry for reposting this here and the Mazda6 video.)
Can anyone attest to the reliability? I've heard the paint chips pretty easily and that the windshield is thin and needs to be replaced if you get damage from road debris.
Great question Phil Pin. In other markets outside of the U.S./North America both the Mazda3 & Mazda6 are available with all wheel drive. I am really hoping that Mazda will bring said availability Stateside soon - I would be right in line to buy!
Great question Mario, thanks for watching the video and posing it. Between those two, I would choose the Mazda3. It has an overall step above quality to it, and being able to get the manual transmission in all trim levels seals the deal for me. Are you looking into these hatch's yourself?
Yes I am actually. I have had my eye on the 2017 Mazda 3, since I heard about the availability of their safety features with a manual GT. I like the overall look as well. I am glad to hear you lean towards the Mazda3 as well. I am in discussion with the dealer now to get the one I want built!
I just bought the manual hatchback version of this car.... it was great for a few day... the clutch came defective and the car died while I was on the highway and made some pretty horrible noises.... having the Mazda dealership put in a new clutch
Sorry to hear that Nicholas H. Once that has been taken care of I'm positive you will thoroughly enjoy driving your new Mazda3, they are very satisfying to put pavement down in.
It is definitely a nice hatch, but, that pop up infotainment screen is a distraction. It is great that Honda got rid of the dual screen nonsense AND that they placed the screen where it belongs, on the dash. I wish other car companies will follow suit.
Torn between this model and a GTI. I test drove both and the GTI seemed to have more room inside for my 6' body. Might have to drive them again. But the excellent reliability of the Mazda is attractive compared to the GTI. Arrgg help?? FYI: No I do not mod/tune my cars, I am old but want a fun DD with utility and good MPG with a manual.
That is definitely a tough one. I highly recommend driving the exact models you'd choose back to back and really look at them objectively - seat comfort, interior noise levels, stereo, visibility, driving dynamics/comfort etc. You could even make a score card and use that on each to help determine which you like best.
I have a touring 18 3 hatchback. Get the gti if it's a mk7. It's that much better trust me. Mazda 3 was still on car and driver best car for 2017 with the gti so you can't go wrong with both
I just bought a 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Nav Hatch for my wife because I wanted her to have the reversing camera on board that comes as standard in sport Nav trim (UK). My current car is a VW Tiguan R Line (2020) which is ok but it lacks the soul of the Mazda. I sneak out in the Mazda whenever I get the chance.
Thanks for watching our videos Dex Won. Please see the comments below, specifically in reply to Mario LaRussa, to help answer your question. Subscribe if you haven't done so already!
Having just reviewed both- they are so close, it'd be journalistic malpractice for me to recommend one! Even with the 2017 improvements inside- the Honda may slightly win for fit and finish, but then again the Mazda may slightly win for sport.
Starting about 2 minutes in, you talk about the center console, layout, etc. Point to it. But the camera is pointed at the side of your head instead of at the features being described. WHY???
Matthew G, thank you for pointing out an area that we can improve - seriously! It is constructive criticism from viewers such as yourself that will help us to become better and grow. I am going to discuss this with my colleague who handles the filming to reach the goal of improving our next video. Keep an eye out mid/late next week and let me know how we did!
Hey thanks for this great review but I was wondering can you play music off the Soundcloud app with your iPhone through the infotainment system on this car?
jayount I have not tried, I'm not sure the last time I have used SoundCloud. If the app sends the sound through the dock connector (it should) then I can't see why the vehicles audio system wouldn't play the music. If you get a chance to test it out, I'd love to get your feedback for myself and others!
Thanks for reviewing the 2017 Mazda 3! I'm trying to decide between the touring and GT trim. Are the only differences the leatherette vs real leather and the Bose audio in the GT?
Thank you! From all the negative reviews I've seen about the heads up display, this is actually an argument in favor for the Touring trim. Probably what I will go for.
In my opinion you chose the best trim, engine, transmission and color option to review.. Quoted 18.5k for the sedan version of this last year. Wish the headliner was dark and had a better/elevated armrest.
I'm trying to decide between the Civic Hatchback and this car. My only big question about this car is there tech system easy to use with your phone? Or should I just wait until Mazda get's Carplay? And when will Mazda get Carplay? Almost every automaker is putting this into new cars now. And Mazda has done added it to any of it's cars yet for some reason.
joewillgo, I personally love how the audio system works in the Mazda. The controls are simple, straightforward and within easy reach. If you really like the Apple CarPlay interface, you may be disappointed since that is not included. If you aren't "tied" to that, I think you'll be surprised with Mazda's system - the Navigation is awesome btw.
Grappone Automotive Group I'm thinking of going with the Mazda. I contacted Mazda about the car play and they said they are adding a software update for their cars so it works with their system :)
I'm a little late to the party, but I'm curious as to your opinion on how this car fares vs the Civic hatchback. Are there any significant advantages/disadvantages?
Joseph Morales, I went into more detail under the comments of this & the Civic Hatch videos but quickly; an advantage is the availability of a manual transmission in all trim levels on the Mazda whereas Honda limits that to just two trim levels. The Mazda is an excellent machine, one that I would be very happy with on a daily basis.
I traded in my 2014 2.0 for 2017 2.5 GrandTouring on 8/1/2017. The strange thing is my 2014 car was around $24K back then my new car (sticker price $27500) was discounted under $23K. I wasn't planning on trading. I got $12.5K for my trade-in. I think since Civic came out in a Hatch, there is a lot of more competition in the Hatch market that is driving down the price of Mazda3 which is great if you prefer Mazda 3.
How about braking performance/brake pedal feel? Is the pedal firm and the brakes responsive? I ask because I heard previous model years had spongy brakes that didn't really work well until your foot went right down on the pedal...
It's been a few months since I've driven the Mazda3 now, but I don't recall having to "learn" the brake pedal as you do in some vehicles. I also can't remember having any moments of panic as I hit the brakes thinking they weren't grabbing unless I really pressed on them.
Paul, great question. I did some research and discovered that all trim levels come with standard Halogen headlights. The GT has available auto leveling, swiveling Bi-LED headlights, they come with the Premium Equipment Package. That pack also includes rear LED combination lights, NAV, a heated steering wheel and auto-dimming rearview mirror. Looks like if you want the LED lights you get everything!
Doesn't the electronic park brake just throws overboard the mechanical purpose of the hand brake? I always thought that the hand brake was a backup security feature, besides been used for parking of course.. Have you never seen how Jason Statham uses the hand brake to maneuver the Audi in the Transporter movies?? Looks cool... Now try to imagine him doing that with the electronic one... Totally useless.
I really don't like that your face is only visible when you are describing and pointing out all the functions you describe of the lower console. (You see these images almost last in a "quick video" tour). It would be much more descriptive if when you talk, describe and point out all the options and functions that make up this console, the camera showed each of them. Thanks and regards
video is to see the car how it looks, not your face. lol 😂😂 show us the car interiors when you are explaining. who is the videographer always showing your face!!
That seems to be the decision of the month that so many are trying to make! I personally love the 2017 Mazda3 with its updated interior. The Civic hatch has a turbo which always calls to me. I'd say take a good look at and drive of both then make a decision based upon pros/cons of each!
Mazda says that you should not need a turbo mode. Mazda concentrates on the driver... Their cars are fun to drive, really. I can't say the same about Honda Civics I have driven though they are excellent cars.
DFWs Cars Ill go w the Mazda because its a little different. You dont see them as much so you stand out a little more..plus i like the way the Mazda handles it just feels right..
Not exactly sure why you are saying this as LED fog lights come standard on the Grand Touring and are available on all of the trim levels. Thanks for checking out our content!
My Daughter purchased this exact car in Red based on this review and a test drive. It is EVERYTHING you said it was. It just feels like a so much more expensive car and an absolute blast to drive ! There is a ton of room in the back and the 60/40 split seats make it great for three people and a lot of luggage.
Do yourself a favor and go buy this car !!!
Ben Kanobe ,
Hi. Did she get a manual or automatic transmission?
How has the car held up?
Why wouldn't you pan the camera over the center controls area while you are talking about it? Why do I need to see your face and listen to you describe it when you could simply film it? Seems like a no brainer to me.
Gery Fung ahaha I thought the same
Thanks for all of your input. Yes, the Mazda3 does have an armrest center console. In fact it's been lifted from the big brother Mazda6 and it very very nice. The lid is hinged, covering a bin with a power outlet. In front of that are the cup holders which are closeable via a sliding cover. next in line are the audio controls, then shifter.
Gery Fung that was annoying as fukc
I was going to say the same exact thing. Great review with HORRIBLE camera work. :-(
Hollis, very nice job on all your videos. You are well spoken, informative, and very charismatic on camera.
Thank you MrShanester77
I have one - a 2017 6 speed 2.5 touring hatchback white with black interior. It's one of the best most comfortable and nice cars to drive with sufficient sportiness to make driving fun the way it used to be.
tip: show more of what you're reviewing. your camera focuses on you instead of what you're trying to showcase like the interior.
Thanks for the suggestion Alex Vera, we have done so in more recent videos.
I’m buying a used one this week!
The one comparison video I need in my life is of the Mazda3 and the Civic Hatchback lol
The 2017 Mazda3 has EPA estimates much lower than the 2016 model. Using the 4-door 2.0L as en example, the 2016 model was rated at 34/30/41 at release. That was revised to 33/30/40 under 2017 reformulation. The 2017 model is rated at just 32/28/37.
The Mazda6 has a very similar YoY reduction in EPA estimates. But the CX-3 does not, it has just a reduction of 1 MPG highway consistent with the impact of the 2017 reformulation on the Mazda3 and Mazda6.
My best guess is that it's because of G-Vectoring control. Dave Coleman said the torque reduction is (normally) achieved by retarding ignition timing, so maybe it interferes with running the engine at optimal efficiency. The Mazda3 and Mazda6 have GVC new in the 2017 model, while the CX-3 does not have GVC.
What do you think? Does Grappone have contacts with Mazda that could get the answer?
(Sorry for reposting this here and the Mazda6 video.)
thank you, I just bought a grand touring, love it
Congrats!! They are excellent vehicles, enjoy every bit of your drives!
@@GrapponeAutomotiveGroup what about reliability and longevity?
This guy reminds me of the guy from blues clues
Jose Rodriguez lmaooooooo
Jose Rodriguez what is iseen cannot be unseen O.O
Can anyone attest to the reliability? I've heard the paint chips pretty easily and that the windshield is thin and needs to be replaced if you get damage from road debris.
My issue is that the civic hatchback turbo gets 11HP less but gets 40 mpg...plus a little less money LX manual.
Does anybody know if they make this in AWD or going to make it AWD in the future?
Great question Phil Pin. In other markets outside of the U.S./North America both the Mazda3 & Mazda6 are available with all wheel drive. I am really hoping that Mazda will bring said availability Stateside soon - I would be right in line to buy!
Excellent review!
Great review! How does the 2017 Mazda3 compare to the 2017 Honda Civic Hatch you reviewed? Would you pick one over the other?
I'm was going to ask the same thing. I'd go with the Civic.
Great question Mario, thanks for watching the video and posing it. Between those two, I would choose the Mazda3. It has an overall step above quality to it, and being able to get the manual transmission in all trim levels seals the deal for me. Are you looking into these hatch's yourself?
Yes I am actually. I have had my eye on the 2017 Mazda 3, since I heard about the availability of their safety features with a manual GT. I like the overall look as well. I am glad to hear you lean towards the Mazda3 as well. I am in discussion with the dealer now to get the one I want built!
***** Test drive both of them back to back.
Mazda lowered the price on the 2017 Mazda 3 get the Mazda!!
I just bought the manual hatchback version of this car.... it was great for a few day... the clutch came defective and the car died while I was on the highway and made some pretty horrible noises.... having the Mazda dealership put in a new clutch
Sorry to hear that Nicholas H. Once that has been taken care of I'm positive you will thoroughly enjoy driving your new Mazda3, they are very satisfying to put pavement down in.
It is definitely a nice hatch, but, that pop up infotainment screen is a distraction. It is great that Honda got rid of the dual screen nonsense AND that they placed the screen where it belongs, on the dash. I wish other car companies will follow suit.
Great review! How many people still recognize you as the actor in the before-enhancement version of buff Chris Evans in Captain America?
Lol not many.
Torn between this model and a GTI. I test drove both and the GTI seemed to have more room inside for my 6' body. Might have to drive them again. But the excellent reliability of the Mazda is attractive compared to the GTI. Arrgg help??
FYI: No I do not mod/tune my cars, I am old but want a fun DD with utility and good MPG with a manual.
That is definitely a tough one. I highly recommend driving the exact models you'd choose back to back and really look at them objectively - seat comfort, interior noise levels, stereo, visibility, driving dynamics/comfort etc. You could even make a score card and use that on each to help determine which you like best.
I have a touring 18 3 hatchback. Get the gti if it's a mk7. It's that much better trust me. Mazda 3 was still on car and driver best car for 2017 with the gti so you can't go wrong with both
I just bought a 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Nav Hatch for my wife because I wanted her to have the reversing camera on board that comes as standard in sport Nav trim (UK). My current car is a VW Tiguan R Line (2020) which is ok but it lacks the soul of the Mazda. I sneak out in the Mazda whenever I get the chance.
Whats better , this Mazda 3 or new Honda civic hatchback ? please comment.
Thanks for watching our videos Dex Won. Please see the comments below, specifically in reply to Mario LaRussa, to help answer your question. Subscribe if you haven't done so already!
Dex let me know what he says!! I am asking the same thing!!!!
Having just reviewed both- they are so close, it'd be journalistic malpractice for me to recommend one! Even with the 2017 improvements inside- the Honda may slightly win for fit and finish, but then again the Mazda may slightly win for sport.
8chamber shaolin Mazda 3
Dex Won Although in fairness, think he works for a Mazda dealer. ;-) Granted his auto group does sell Hondas too.
Starting about 2 minutes in, you talk about the center console, layout, etc. Point to it. But the camera is pointed at the side of your head instead of at the features being described. WHY???
Matthew G, thank you for pointing out an area that we can improve - seriously! It is constructive criticism from viewers such as yourself that will help us to become better and grow. I am going to discuss this with my colleague who handles the filming to reach the goal of improving our next video. Keep an eye out mid/late next week and let me know how we did!
Nice forest village / town ...where is this ?
This was filmed in Loudon, NH at Hoit Road Marsh.
Hey thanks for this great review but I was wondering can you play music off the Soundcloud app with your iPhone through the infotainment system on this car?
jayount I have not tried, I'm not sure the last time I have used SoundCloud. If the app sends the sound through the dock connector (it should) then I can't see why the vehicles audio system wouldn't play the music. If you get a chance to test it out, I'd love to get your feedback for myself and others!
Thanks for reviewing the 2017 Mazda 3! I'm trying to decide between the touring and GT trim. Are the only differences the leatherette vs real leather and the Bose audio in the GT?
Essentially, the only two other items are LED fog lights and the full color heads up display that come with the GT.
Thank you! From all the negative reviews I've seen about the heads up display, this is actually an argument in favor for the Touring trim. Probably what I will go for.
Awesome to hear, let us know how you make out!
I'd like to see you do a review on the 2017 Toyota Corolla iM. I watched your Honda Civic Hatchback also and want a comparison. thanks
That is something I can do for you Richard, we have the iM in stock and it is in queue for video production. Keep an eye out for it!
Grappone Automotive Group Thanks for getting back. I'll keep a look out for it. Keep up the good work!
In my opinion you chose the best trim, engine, transmission and color option to review.. Quoted 18.5k for the sedan version of this last year. Wish the headliner was dark and had a better/elevated armrest.
I'm trying to decide between the Civic Hatchback and this car. My only big question about this car is there tech system easy to use with your phone? Or should I just wait until Mazda get's Carplay? And when will Mazda get Carplay? Almost every automaker is putting this into new cars now. And Mazda has done added it to any of it's cars yet for some reason.
joewillgo, I personally love how the audio system works in the Mazda. The controls are simple, straightforward and within easy reach. If you really like the Apple CarPlay interface, you may be disappointed since that is not included. If you aren't "tied" to that, I think you'll be surprised with Mazda's system - the Navigation is awesome btw.
Grappone Automotive Group I'm thinking of going with the Mazda. I contacted Mazda about the car play and they said they are adding a software update for their cars so it works with their system :)
can you do a comparison between civic hatch and mazda 3 hath
I hope one day to do a Head-to-head of those two vehicles, thanks for your support for it!
I'm a little late to the party, but I'm curious as to your opinion on how this car fares vs the Civic hatchback. Are there any significant advantages/disadvantages?
Joseph Morales, I went into more detail under the comments of this & the Civic Hatch videos but quickly; an advantage is the availability of a manual transmission in all trim levels on the Mazda whereas Honda limits that to just two trim levels. The Mazda is an excellent machine, one that I would be very happy with on a daily basis.
Grappone Automotive Group
Yes?
I traded in my 2014 2.0 for 2017 2.5 GrandTouring on 8/1/2017. The strange thing is my 2014 car was around $24K back then my new car (sticker price $27500) was discounted under $23K. I wasn't planning on trading. I got $12.5K for my trade-in.
I think since Civic came out in a Hatch, there is a lot of more competition in the Hatch market that is driving down the price of Mazda3 which is great if you prefer Mazda 3.
Todd Boden ,
Hi. Did you have any problems with your 2014 Mazda3 ?
I'm a Mazda fan...but this sounds more like an infomercial.
How do hill starts work with the stick and that electronic ebrake?
How about braking performance/brake pedal feel? Is the pedal firm and the brakes responsive? I ask because I heard previous model years had spongy brakes that didn't really work well until your foot went right down on the pedal...
It's been a few months since I've driven the Mazda3 now, but I don't recall having to "learn" the brake pedal as you do in some vehicles. I also can't remember having any moments of panic as I hit the brakes thinking they weren't grabbing unless I really pressed on them.
Do you have to upgrade to grand touring for blind spot monitoring?
How is the sedan compared to the hatchback?
Honestly the same aside from the added space of the cargo area (and of course the exterior looks). Both drive very well and have excellent interiors.
Good job. simple and clean layout . the next step is comparsion , waitnig for the next episode.
good luck👍🌹🌺
Want this as a manual !! 😩😩
Can you get HIDs or LEDs in the Touring level or do you have to go the the GT?
Paul, great question. I did some research and discovered that all trim levels come with standard Halogen headlights. The GT has available auto leveling, swiveling Bi-LED headlights, they come with the Premium Equipment Package. That pack also includes rear LED combination lights, NAV, a heated steering wheel and auto-dimming rearview mirror. Looks like if you want the LED lights you get everything!
Grappone Automotive Group great thanks. That's what I thought.
Just looked at your inventory. It's nice to see so many manuals.
***** I wholeheartedly agree!!
i want to see the interior. NOT your face
+shin shan this has been made very evident and is addressed in newer videos. Thank you for watching!
Speak for yourself, I like looking at his face :P
Doesn't the electronic park brake just throws overboard the mechanical purpose of the hand brake? I always thought that the hand brake was a backup security feature, besides been used for parking of course.. Have you never seen how Jason Statham uses the hand brake to maneuver the Audi in the Transporter movies?? Looks cool... Now try to imagine him doing that with the electronic one... Totally useless.
Enrique Ortiz well you're not in a movie.
The steering wheel is nice
Some cars have soft touch materials up front but cheap out at the back, I appreciate Mazda for not doing that
I want reliability and refinement but I also want the Type R. 😩
How tall are you? There's no way of telling how much room there's in the backseat otherwise.
5'7"
I love Mazdas, great handling and fun to drive without killing your bank account! ZOOM ZOOM:)
Joseph Espinal
I really don't like that your face is only visible when you are describing and pointing out all the functions you describe of the lower console. (You see these images almost last in a "quick video" tour). It would be much more descriptive if when you talk, describe and point out all the options and functions that make up this console, the camera showed each of them. Thanks and regards
Мазда рулит привет вам из России
What's the point of a review without seeing what he's talking about
they sacrificed the sound insulation
No they added more...
Luis X I will test drive this and the golf at the dealership later this week
Cool beans let us know. they added more sound dead, tightened the gaps, tweaked the susp, G-vectoring an couple other touches..Good luck..
video is to see the car how it looks, not your face. lol 😂😂 show us the car interiors when you are explaining. who is the videographer always showing your face!!
Charan Kumar B R this has been made plainly evident and addressed in newer videos. Thank you for your viewership!
Grappone Automotive Group rookie videographer might be. never mind!
I agree. I want to see the car not this guys face
This or the new honda civic hatchback? I cant make up my freakin mind!
That seems to be the decision of the month that so many are trying to make! I personally love the 2017 Mazda3 with its updated interior. The Civic hatch has a turbo which always calls to me. I'd say take a good look at and drive of both then make a decision based upon pros/cons of each!
The new civic hatch is a monstrosity lol.
Totally agree, these cars are so close now, Honda and Mazda have made this a really tough one. It really now comes down to personal preference.
Mazda says that you should not need a turbo mode. Mazda concentrates on the driver... Their cars are fun to drive, really. I can't say the same about Honda Civics I have driven though they are excellent cars.
DFWs Cars Ill go w the Mazda because its a little different. You dont see them as much so you stand out a little more..plus i like the way the Mazda handles it just feels right..
Very cute....I mean you.
aww why is everyone being mean to him?
NO FOG LAMPS?
Shit!
Not exactly sure why you are saying this as LED fog lights come standard on the Grand Touring and are available on all of the trim levels. Thanks for checking out our content!
Great Review - Please EAT MORE !
Waste of time... nothing shown in this video other than his face........
Enjoyed your video. You're super cute also.
ONLY TOTAL NOOBS AND DISRESPECTFUL PEOPLE CLOSES HOOD SO HARSH.