Although exceptionally compact in size, this is otherwise a conventional automatic. We clocked our fastest time on an autocross circuit with the manual, in spite of running on a cool, damp circuit with standing water in places. Flammang reported from Chicago on the 2. Standard for this version is the six speed automatic transmission and comes with either with front wheel or all wheel drive system. The all-wheel-drive versions felt more stable while driving at speed around a wet Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca course. Cubby storage is decent, with a large glovebox, big cupholders front and rear, rubber-lined door pockets, and armrest bins.
There is now the Smart City Brake Support and collision warning system. That's better than a number of sedans, as well as topping the charts among vehicles in this class. The rear seats fold nearly flat, but not completely. In addition to sleek good looks, the designers achieved excellent aerodynamic properties, with a drag coefficient of just 0. We are getting modern, functional and attractive looks and even the materials used could be of higher quality it certainly does offer a lot.
A semi-manual feature allows the driver to shift down by pushing the shift lever forward or upshift by pulling it back. Power is transferred to wither front wheels only or to all wheels through a six speed manual transmission while the six speed automatic comes as a option. The optional TomTom navigation seemed easier to use than many. Tony Swan reported from Detroit, with Mitch McCullough reporting from Monterey, California, on the 2. All models run on less-expensive Regular Unleaded gasoline. Good aero pays off in the fuel economy department, but also contributes to quiet operation.
Mazda explained that its engineers worked hard to tune the system for the proper balance between road feel at high speed and appropriate assist at parking lot speed. That engine works particularly well for driving briskly along winding roads or cruising on the freeway. The tonneau cover stays with the hatch when the hatch is raised. We are not getting anything special but it can compete with other models in this market segment. Mazda achieved this feat by carefully designing the pistons, high-pressure fuel injection, and a fancy exhaust manifold.
All models offer agile handling and are fun to drive. Just like the previous year model new version comes with 2. Few corrections are needed while driving down a bumpy road. The body tapers outward toward the bottom, lending a look of stability. We recommend opting for all-wheel drive for its improved traction in slippery conditions.
A 6-speed manual transmission is available on the Sport with front-wheel drive. Both Touring and Grand Touring models are offered with larger engines and more power but the best part of this is that the fuel economy has not been significantly affected. As a set-and-forget device, simply slip the shifter into D and drive; it's hard to fault. Even … The 2014 Infiniti Q50 is all new model that is based on the G37 sedan but with new technology and … With few pretty good marketing tricks Fiat managed to popularize its 500 and the sale results are improving. The shape and detailing is the first iteration of what Mazda calls its kodo design language, reflecting the grace and power of animals such as the cheetah and hence a faster, forceful, and more soulful means of transportation, according to the publicity materials. All-wheel drive gives it sure-footed traction and is emphatically the best choice for the Snow Belt.
With either engine, Mazda's Skyactiv 6-speed automatic transmission is exceptionally smooth, reacting promptly and delivering almost imperceptible upshifts and downshifts as load conditions demand. We appreciated the grip and sure-footedness of the all-wheel drive while driving through the rain down a winding valley road. The result is a broad torque band that delivers decent performance over a wide range of engine speeds. Acceleration is quite frisky from a standstill or for passing maneuvers. If you live in a particularly dry climate, however, you could save a little on the purchase price, get slightly better fuel economy and possibly a somewhat livelier handling feel with front-wheel drive. This was the segment to which most drivers and potential buyers had complaints.
It's a simple, straightforward cabin. Cargo capacity is 34 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which expands to 65 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks all folded forward. All these new features make this vehicle safer but also nicer place to be since the quality of interior has been risen. The center of the dashboard is dominated by a 5. The feel is firm but compliant, and could be characterized as European in character.