2019 Mazda3 Hatchback Premium Package AWD by David Colman
LEARN MORE: Mazda Story Archive 1995-Present; reviews, Specs, Company News, Concepts, Executives, Recalls, More
Sensible offering for ethusiatic and safety-minded drivers
By David Colman
Special Correspondent to THE AUTO CHANNEL
![]() 2019 Mazda3 Hatchback AWD |
From the driver's seat, you would never know that Mazda replaced the previous 3's fully independent rear suspension with a cheaper torsion beam design. Ride quality remains good, while handling has not deteriorated appreciably. On a twisty back road, the hatchback gives a good account of itself, sustaining directional changes with equanimity. Partly responsible for this maneuverability are the Toyo Proxes A34 tires, measuring 215/45R18, and carrying a mud and snow rating. We had the opportunity to challenge the same piece of Coast Route 1 in both wet and dry conditions, and the Mazda3, augmented by its new all-wheel-drive system, proved indefatigable in heavy rain. Even more surprising, it revealed its sports sedan breeding in the dry, where it proved to be a reputable back road turn carver.
![]() 2019 Mazda3 Hatchback AWD |
On the freeway, the Mazda3 offers a quiet and polished ride, with no exterior wind noise. The standard 12 speaker Bose entertainment unit provides great performance and sound, although I found Mazda's "Multifunction Commander Control" to be difficult to operate when underway. For a while, voice commands sufficed to change channels on the provided SIRIUS/XM unit, but after a couple of days, the voice system apparently came down with a head cold and could no longer understand my verbal instructions. Another disappointment was the cruise control system. With small, chrome plated switches affixed to the spokes of the steering wheel, it's finicky to operate. When engaged, the system proved so herky-jerky that I decided to retire it favor of my right foot.
![]() 2019 Mazda3 Hatchback AWD |
The latest Mazda3 opens new possibilities for all-wheel-drive traction motoring at an eminently affordable price point. With customary Mazda handling attributes much in evidence, this handsome offering makes as much sense for the enthusiast driver as it does for the safety minded owner.
2019 MAZDA3 HATCHBACK PREMIUM PACKAGE AWD
-
ENGINE: 2.5 liter inline 4, DOHC, SKYACTIVE-G
HORSEPOWER: 186hp
TORQUE: 186lb.-ft.
FUEL CONSUMPTION: 24MPG City/32MPG Highway
PRICE AS TESTED: $31,335
HYPES: Built in Japan with Japanese Components
GRIPES: Balky Cruise Control
STAR RATING: 9 Stars out of 10