First drive: the beefy 2014 Mazda3 2.5, it’s like a baby Mazda6

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Sometimes, there’s no replacement for more displacement and the 2014 Mazda3 2.5 certainly has more. It’s also more powerful, more sporty and more luxurious with more goodies throughout. That’s because the 2015 Mazda3 2.5 only comes in the top trims.The super-high-compression, (13:1) 2.5-liter Skyactive engine makes 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 lbs-feet of torque at 3,250 rpm. That’s pretty damn good for a car in this segment.

A six speed manual (not available for testing during our press event) will be available and a six-speed automatic will be an option. Many of the drive components from the current Mazda6 can be found in the 2014 Mazda3 2.5 – including the price. Funny part is: some high-tech goodies aren’t even available for the new Mazda6!

The compact car segment is one that is competitively cutthroat, meaning there is little room for error when launching an all-new vehicle like the 2014 Mazda3,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. “But our best-selling vehicle has only gotten better, winning over the industry critics that were recently offered a behind-the-wheel experience. Yet our most important judges remain the consumers and I am confident that our third-generation Mazda3 will not disappoint.

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The i Grand Touring starts at $22,745 MSRP for the sedan and $23,245 MSRP for the five-door when featuring a SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission. The SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic adds $1,050 to $23,795 MSRP and $24,295 MSRP, respectively. All i Grand Touring models feature the equipment of an i Touring with SKYACTIV-Drive as well as a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with manual lumbar adjustment, leatherette seats and door panel inserts, variable heated front seats and a moonroof with a one-touch open function.” – – Mazda Media

With only a minute amount of test time available, I was able to get the gist of what Mazda was selling with the more expensive 2014 Mazda3 2.5… they’re selling a premium small car. I get it, it fits – but there are a few issues. My biggest gripe is that, considering all of the upgrades and amenities, Mazda skimped on the sound-deadening material. that’s not such an issue on the entry-level 2014 Mazda3 2.0, but it is on a vehicle that can run well into the high $20,000-range.

Check out this brief video review of the 2014 Mazda3 2.5 and let us know what you think.

Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum.  His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.