Mazda Mazda3 Details - Prices, Photos, Videos, Features, Rebates & Incentives

Following significant changes to the MAZDA3 last year, the popular sedans and hatchbacks receive few updates for 2013. Most notably, Mazda's SkyActiv powertrain technology makes its way into iSport sedan models, which join Touring and Grand Touring models in their use of the technology. SkyActiv boosts fuel economy to nearly 40 mpg on the highway. It pairs a direct-injected 2.0L engine with a special 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, more features are now standard across the MAZDA3 model range.

For 2013, the MAZDA3 continues to be available in both sedan and 4-door hatchback body styles. The car was completely redesigned for the 2010 model year, so updates for 2013 are modest, but important. The biggest news is the greater availability of Mazda's SkyActive high-efficiency powertrain technology under the hood.

The base MAZDA3 is the i SV, which still utilizes Mazda's 148-horsepower 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. The i Sport, i Touring and i Grand Touring, gets the SkyActiv-G 155-hp 2.0L inline-4. Further up is the s Grand Touring with its 2.5L 167-horsepower 4-cylinder engine. Finally, at the top of the range, the MazdaSpeed3 returns with a turbocharged 2.3L 4-cylinder engine that makes 263 horsepower.

The i SV comes equipped with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, while the rest of the i range gets a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. The s Grand Touring offers either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed auto, while the MazdaSpeed 3 is only available with the performance-oriented 6-speed manual. Mileage figures come in at 25/33 mpg for the SV, while the rest of the I models equipped with SkyActiv return 27/39 mpg, according to Mazda. The s Grand Touring offers 20/28 mpg.

The SkyActiv package works via a lighter combination of parts (4.4 pounds lighter than the standard 2.0L engine), special multi-port fuel injectors for better fuel spray inside each cylinder, specially designed pistons that allow shorter combustion times and dual sequential valve timing. Mazda says the new engine features a new drive control system as well, which helps to let the engine and transmission work better as a combination, giving the car much better reaction to driver input.

SkyActiv is available in both hatchback and sedan body styles. Overall, the MADZA3 continues to be practical small car, with enough room for four adults when required.

Standard safety features include advanced front airbags, side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, stability control, and traction control. An optional blind spot monitoring system is available as well, but only on Grand Touring models fitted with the Technology Package.

Base models come with cloth upholstery, power mirrors and windows, tilt/telescopic steering column, air conditioning with pollen filter, 60/40 split folding rear bench seat, and AM/FM/CD stereo. Sport models add USB audio input, cruise control, power locks and remote keyless entry. Touring trim benefits from alloy wheels, keyless entry and start system with push-button start, leather interior accents, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Grand Touring comes equipped with a sunroof and 10-speaker Bose audio, leather seating with 5-position variable heated front seats, heated mirrors, touch-screen navigation, blind spot monitoring and SMS text message audio delivery and voice reply. Finally, the MazdaSpeed3 includes goodies like a limited-slip differential and active torque management, specially tuned brakes and suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a unique leather interior.

The Technology Package, available on i Grand Touring models, consists of self-leveling and adaptive HID headlights, halogen fog lights, a rear decklid spoiler, rain-sensing wipers, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an alarm. A Preferred Equipment Package for the i Touring carries a power one-touch moonroof, 265-watt Bose surround sound system, and blind spot monitor.

The MAZDA3 has been Mazda's best-selling vehicle for several years, representing nearly half of Mazda's U.S.-market sales, and it's easy to understand why. It's a high-quality car that's simple, small, and sporty, all of which help it to stand out in an increasingly crowded small-car segment. The increased availability of the economical SkyActiv technology makes it an even more inviting alternative to the Hyundai Elantra Touring, Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.

Small size; aggressive design; sporty performance from MazdaSpeed3 model; excellent fuel economy thanks to SkyActiv technology.