Parking Brake Recall

Mazda is currently issuing a recall on over 230,000 vehicles in the United Sates over a parking brake malfunction. According the the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an improperly-sealed brake assembly could allow corrosion to build up and eventually cause the parking brake to fail.

The recall covers 2014-2015 Mazda6 and 2014-2016 Mazda3 cars that are equipped with a hand-operated parking brake. Thus far; drivers have reported the brake getting stuck in the ‘on’ position, preventing the car from moving, as well as the brake failing on a hill, which could cause a roll away crash.

Mazda has stated that the protective boot around the parking brake assembly could be improperly sealed, resulting in water and debris build up which could subsequently freeze the actuator shaft and prevent the brake from engaging or disengaging. Mazda first became aware of the dilemma in April of 2015, when a driver in Canada reported parking brake drag while driving their Mazda6.

There have been at least 13 documented cases of brake drag and/or roll-away crashes between the Mazda3 and Mazda6 in the US. Luckily, no injuries have been reported.

If you own a Mazda3 or Mazda6 between the years 2014-2016, it’s pertinent that you contact your dealer and get your car inspected for the parking brake malfunction as soon as possible. If any anomalies are detected, Mazda will replace the caliper assembly or the protective boot itself.

Mazda will be officially notifying car owners starting August 21^st. So, schedule your appointment as soon as it’s feasible for you and beat the herd!

Thanks for reading. Be safe!

The Miata

The 1980s were not only marked by corny television, but by the arrival of Japanese cars as a mainstream choice instead of a quirky alternative too. Japanese gems of the 1980s were the first to primarily rely on virtues of reliability, frugality, and efficiency. Bob Hall, an automotive journalist who loved Mazda, saw a deeply untapped well of people with minimal incomes who wanted something sporty and fun, but for a more reasonable price. He sent a proposal to Mazdas head of design and got the wheels turning on what was to eventually be the Miata (AKA the MX-5).

Mazda used a design credo across the four generations of the MX-5's development: the phrase Jinba ittai, which translates into English as "rider and horse as one body ". This phrase was roughly translated into car mechanic speak to be relayed into five core design requirements:

-The car would be as compact and as light as possible while meeting global safety requirements.

-The cockpit would comfortably accommodate two full-stature occupants with no wasted space.

-The basic layout would continue with the original's front-midship rear-drive configuration with the engine positioned ahead of the driver but behind the front axle for 50:50 weight distribution.

-All four wheels would be attached by wishbone or multi-link suspension systems to maximize tire performance, road grip, and dynamic stability.

-And that a power-plant frame would provide a solid connection between the engine and rear-mounted differential to sharpen throttle response.

The result was an adorable sports car that was swift enough to glide around winding roads and exhilarate while speeding down a freeway. Being reasonably priced was one of the initial reasons this car was brought to fruition, so the price was as unbelievable as the ride.

Mazda held customer clinics to not only gauge the publics interest in the Miata but also to see how much people would be willing to pay for it. The goal was to sell for at least $8,800, just enough to justify the project and turn a justifiable profit (profit being one of the last things they were going for). Interestingly enough, most people pinned the Miata be be sold at $20,000! The Miata ended up being released with a mid-ranged sticker price of $13,800, a pleasant surprise to Bob Hall and Mazdas designers behind the project.

On top of that, initial sales goals were around 20,000 units per year in the US, but demand was much higher than projected. Mazda sold closer to 40,000 Miatas annually in the cars formative years. Mazda's customer clinics also showed that the Miata had approval ratings a politician would kill for—85 to 90 percent of the participants liked the roadster, numbers that greatly exceeded what automakers normally expect to from such studies.

The Miata is now the best-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history. By April of 2016, over one million MX-5s had been built and sold around the world. The head designer of the Miata agrees that it’s one of his best creations, and he says he loves to see smiling faces behind the wheel as he drives down the curvy roads of Southern California. This enduring gem is still as abound and adored as ever, and our inventory here at Lujack Mazda may just have yours!

Mazda's Opulent CX-9

Mazda’s KODO: “Soul of Motion” design philosophy conveys a sense of strength and energy manifested in the CX-9’s athletic stance, elongated hood and tapered roofline. This design evokes a combination of composed power and instantaneous movement, like a predator about to pounce in the wild.

The 2017 Mazda CX-9 is powered by a 2.4 L 4 cylinder engine coupled with a six speed transmission. The CX-9 happens to be one of the most fuel efficient vehicles in its class; estimated to get up to 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. It’s evident that the suspension has been adequately tuned as corners are effortlessly taken and the overall driving experience is smooth and pleasurable. The CX-9, when properly equipped, is capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds.

Mazdas signature Predictive I-Activ AWD system monitors changing road conditions and adjusts power delivery between tires for optimal traction. This system is vital during inclement weather, it is however useful year round- helping to improve overall grip by monitoring and adjusting how much torque you need and where you need it.

The cabin of the CX-9 is sumptuously appointed with soft touch surfaces featuring genuine materials such as real rosewood, metal, and nappa leather. Most will be relieved to see physical knobs and buttons in addition to the touchscreen in the center console, as relying solely on a touchscreen can be daunting and frustrating. The power lift gate- standard on all models but the base- contributes to the overall affluence of the CX-9.

The CX-9 comes standard with a 7 inch full-color touch screen display, an audio system with 6 speakers, Bluetooth, and The Mazda Connect Infotainment System; which includes voice command, a radio broadcast data system, online internet integration, and a message center for SMS text delivery and emergency notifications.

The new Mazda CX-9 is undoubtedly the most pleasing driving 3^rd row SUV, and its equipped with a fuel efficient powertrain to boot. The interiors design and amenities are borderline luxury class- even as Mazda delivers another high quality vehicle with a reasonable starting price. Interested in a test drive? Visit our site here for easy scheduling or to receive updates/more information.

Mazda's 2017 CX-5

Mazdas signature Kodo design philosophy perfectly emanates the CX-5s sleek and powerful body. The long nose and protruding chrome accent encase a prominent glossy black trapezoidal grille. For the CX-5, Mazda employed Japans age old ‘less is more’ concept- possessing a clearly defined presence without the status quo excessive styling accents or an overly manipulated shape.

The ergonomic interior of the CX-5 is smartly appointed with high quality materials and a slew of standard features. Intuitive features equipped on the CX-5 include; full LED headlights, G-Vectoring Control, MAZDACONNECT, 17-inch alloy wheels, push button start, steering wheel-mounted controls, a rearview camera, low-speed automatic braking, and much more. New features added on to this years model include a heated steering wheel, a power liftgate, windshield-projected Active Driving Display, radar cruise control, and even more!

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is powered by a 2.5 L 4 cylinder that generates 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It’s estimated to get 24/31 mpg. The CX-5 will be Mazdas first North American sold vehicle with a diesel engine option; sporting the option of a 2.2 L clean diesel engine that’s said to be one of the most fuel efficient vehicles in its class. Both engine options share two of the company’s proprietary technologies, Mazda’s Natural Sound Smoother and Natural Sound Frequency Control, working together to stifle the noise typical associated with a diesel engine.

An updated version of Mazda’s i-Activsense safety package includes automatic braking, Driver Attention Alert, radar-based adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and dynamic LED headlights.  For additional safety, the CX-5s body has been given a 15% increase in torsional rigidity as well as ultra-high-tensile steel in the frame.

There is good reason Mazda is renowned for having distinctive value- unfailingly offering exclusive amenities and performance without asking for your mortgage payment. The Mazda CX-5 has the style and equipment of higher end vehicles on the market, but starts at a feasible starting price of $24,045.

 Interested in learning more? Visit our site to schedule your test drive or receive information/updates on the new Mazda CX-5.

2017 Mazda CX-3

The new 2017 Mazda CX-3 is abounding with fun, featuring best-in-class performance and sporty handling that more resembles a car but still offers the desirable height and capability of an SUV. It has a comparatively low base price, yet the interior is marked by impressive materials and a handsome design.

The Mazda CX-3 discerningly embodies Mazdas ‘KODO: Soul of Motion’ design expression- inspired by the power and elegance of a wild animal stalking its prey. It’s been given sleek lines and rich contours that express energy and movement. The shape of the body resembles some of Mazdas other SUVs, but the CX-3 offers more sportiness. Once inside the cabin, you will notice that it’s extremely driver focused. They purposely gave the center console a simple layout to prevent driver distraction. The layout is indeed simple, but it still features pleasing materials and a sharp design. The lower seat bolstering is comfortable and helpful for spirited driving.

The Mazda Connect infotainment system includes a dash-mounted 7-inch monitor with a rearview camera, voice command, and a high-end fashioned multi-function dial control. More standard features on the CX-3 include Bluetooth hands-free phone pairing and audio streaming, push-button start, AM/FM/CD player, USB input, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows and door locks and keyless entry.

Power comes from a dependable 2.0 L 4 cylinder that generates 146 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque. The CX-3's acceleration is superior to its competitors and is aided by a surprisingly responsive and crisp-shifting six-speed automatic. It delivers an exhilarating driving experience with precise steering and quick handling reflexes that gives it top marks for athleticism- and fun! More impressive yet- the CX-3 has magically combined sheer sportiness with indubitable practicality. Rather than simply being coined as practical and advertised as such, this SUV actually delivers with an EPA of 29/35- a seemingly disproportionate efficiency considering how much play power the CX-3 has to offer.

Every CX-3 comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and a rearview camera. The Touring adds blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and the Grand Touring can be equipped with an i-Activsense package that includes advanced technologies such as a forward collision mitigation system with automatic braking.

The Mazda CX-3s second year reprises its valuable combination of sportiness and practicality. Its space and efficiency deem it an apt vehicle for a family lifestyle, and yet it upholds the exciting sportiness that keen drivers often desire. Visit us here to schedule a test drive or receive updates on Mazdas poignant new CX-3.

2017 Mazda6

Mid-sized sedans are typically seen to be boring family cars, but driving the 2017 Mazda6 will quickly convert anyone into a fan. It’s incredibly sharp handling, responsive steering, and comfortable ride deliver one of the most enjoyable driving experiences in the class. The Mazda6 also earns outstanding fuel economy rates and has a comfortable and luxurious interior, which further validate its high ranking in the mid-size market. Although the Mazda6 didn’t need to undergo a total redesign this year, the subtle interior enhancements and the added G-Vectoring Control are improvements definitely worth noting.

Mazda’s new technology, SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS with G-Vectoring Control, helps achieve a smoother, less fatiguing drive for you and your passengers. It’s a highly efficient vehicle movement control system that operates in the background during a spirited drive. This nimble new system works effortlessly by adjusting power delivery, and seamlessly shifting the vehicles weight.

Another great new feature for the Mazda6 is the available i-Activsense batch of intuitive active-safety assists. The setup can now detect pedestrians (in addition to cars and other large objects) moving into the Mazda’s path and it can automatically hit the brakes to avoid or mitigate a pedestrian impact. Mazda has also tuned i-Activsense to recognize traffic signs—including speed-limit, no-entry, and stop signs.

Mazda is known for consistently offering sumptuous luxury for a below average cost. The minute details and unique embellishments make any Mazda stand above its competitors. The Mazda6’s interior sports a new steering wheel with an available heating function; the monochromatic driver-information display has been replaced by a full-color TFT screen; and the pop-up head-up display offers greater adjustability and likewise drops its monochrome scheme for a full-color readout with a more upscale look. Mazda went as far as tying its head-up display’s settings to the driver seat memory function for optimum customization.

Mazda has carved a niche for itself as a manufacturer of cars that are more engaging to drive than your typical family vehicle. The Mazda 6 maintains this reputation with a responsive engine that delivers strong acceleration and power with smooth, effortless control. If you'd like to take one for a test drive, you can find us here. 

2017 Mazda3

You know nothing but raw desire... You feel nothing but unbridled hunger.. You have one clear objective. Your back is arched, your eyes are locked, and your chest rises and falls with a subtle breath. You don’t feel your claws scrape the Earth, you simply thrust forward in a blur. You are a predator.  Inspired by the predatory stance of a wild animal stalking its prey, the Mazda 3’s KODO Soul of Motion design captures the essence of poise, energy and power.

The 2017 Mazda 3s power comes from one of two different engines. The first is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, with either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic. Standard on the Touring 2.5 and Grand Touring is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 184 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, also available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The Mazda 3 goes 0-60 in an impressive 7.5 seconds, near the top of its class.

The Mazda 3 has made some promising comfort upgrades for the interior this year. The seats are contoured to mold perfectly to the body, as if sitting upon a plush baseball mitt. The seat perforations were custom designed for softness, breath-ability, and noise absorption. The Mazda stepped up once again by offering an interior with premium usability unlike any other in its class; with a color head up display, adaptive LED headlights, and adaptive cruise control.

The base sport model comes with a plethora of active safety and technology features, including Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, USB ports, and auxiliary port, HD radio, smartphone connectivity, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind spot monitoring system.

The new Mazda 3 is going to be very well suited for anyone looking for a luxury class feel with a feasible price and cost to own- so really, one could say that the Mazda 3 would be a favorable vehicle for anyone looking for a compact car for the next few years.

The Mazda MX5 RF

The Mazda MX-5 has been a highly esteemed and much loved sports car since its debut in 1989. They have maintained popularity so well that they’ve earned the Guinness World Record for best-selling sports car in history. Affordable sports cars were basically nonexistent throughout the 80’s, so the Miatas initial arrival was wildly celebrated! The new 2017 MX-5 hasn’t been totally redesigned, as it keeps its predecessors winning features, but there are a few novel additions that really set the new MX5 apart this year.

The new MX5 is available in two trim levels; club and touring. While the club model was designed with more sport oriented hardware, the Touring will offer more convenience, comfort, and amenities. Both trim levels are equipped with a 2.0 L four-cylinder engine and are available in a manual or automatic transmission. The manual-equipped club models have a retuned suspension, Bilstein dampers, limited slip differential and shock tower brace.

Grand touring models will be furnished with heated leather seats, navigation, a cloth-lined top, automatic climate control, adaptive headlights and lane departure warning. The extra comfort and updated technology in the touring will make long drives much more comfortable. The new Miatas will also have improved cabin quality thanks to a more comprehensive noise insulation setup.

The best addition to the MX5 is also the most innovative and iconic- the power retractable hard top. The impeccably sealed hard roof elegantly folds back into the rear- without compromising any trunk space- whilst the buttresses remain in place. The pronounced buttresses and curvy body give the silhouette a more familiar, coupe-like appearance.

As is status quo for Mazda, the MX5 has been priced low- regardless of its new ingenious design. The redesign has been eagerly awaited, and they are expected to sell just as well as the earlier models did. Don't forget to get all of your updates and release information today, from Lujack Mazda!

The 7 Seat CX-5

                SUVs are very popular and are continually on the rise as best selling vehicles. Most car manufacturers have at least SUV in their lineup and many have multiple SUVs, and Mazda is no different with the CX-3, CX-5 and the CX-9. And their lineup of SUVs is constantly evolving.

               

                The Mazda CX-3 is the small compact crossover, while the CX-9 is the big brother doing the heavy lifting out of the bunch. The CX-5 has always been the popular, dependable middle-child of the family, but now Mazda is having the CX-5 step up. They are taking a shot at the mid-size SUV class by joining third-row segment.

               

                Mazda is planning to launch a seven-seat option for the CX-5 in Japan initially, with other market regions set to follow. It’s unknown at this point if it would make it to Australia. The model could do wonders for Mazda, especially in Australia. Last year the CX-5 was easily the best-selling SUV out of all segment sizes. With a seven-seat option, sales could only get bigger.

                Based on the SKYACTIV platform as the standard wheelbase CX-5, the longer version is expected to share the same 160-inch but will boast a longer load bay to accommodate the extra row of seating.  Mazda will launch the new-shape model in February, with an Australian debut confirmed for the first half of this year. Specific details regarding the engine options are yet to be announced for the local market, but the 2.5-liter gas and 2.2-liter turbo-diesel offerings are set to carry over.

                Initially, the seven seat Mazda SUV will go on sale in Japan before global sales begin a few months later. It’s not known when the more family-orientated CX-5 will go on sale in the States, but it could be as soon as later this year. Keep checking out our Inventory and contact us to test drive your next Mazda today!

Mazda Airbag Recall

               

         

          

                Mazda North America Operations announced today that they are recalling 8,018 vehicles with airbag inflator issues. The effected vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger front airbag modules used as original equipment.

                Included are model year 2009 RX-8 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B."

                Additionally, unless included in "Zone B,” Mazda is recalling model year 2005-2006 MPV and 2005-2008 RX-8 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

                                In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal airbag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

                Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 7, 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 0617A.

                Contact Lujack Mazda to schedule your recall service work.

Mazda CX-9

For the last decade, Mazda has been producing the Mazda CX-9. Having debuted in 2007, it was established as a fun to drive crossover with a third row. Going through two facelifts during its first generation in 2010 and 2013, the CX-9 went through a complete redesign in 2016. Following Mazda’s split from Ford, Mazda let go of the restraints and developed its own platform and engine for the CX-9.

Things have remained unchanged for the most part with the 2017 CX-9, keeping with the previous year’s feel of a far more upscale crossover than its price tag would suggest. The CX-9 is a beautiful three-row crossover with AWD and an efficient yet turbocharged engine. And the engine powering the CX-9 is Mazda’s new 2.5-liter SkyActiv four-cylinder turbo, which produces less horsepower but more torque than the previous V-6.

First look at this CX-9 and you see the KODO designed grille and fascia and projector beam headlights, with chrome wrapping everything. Chrome accents the lower rocker panels, the side window surrounds and roof racks then moves around to the back to envelop the rear bumper and twin exhaust pipes. The new CX-9 is outfitted with 20-inch, 10 spoke wheels that have a satin chrome finish. The classy looks are juxtaposed by the black plastic cladding along the bottom of the CX-9, and following the rounded wheel well arches. This gives the Mazda a more rugged look, helping it stay true to its SUV heritage.

The interior was given new design theme as well, the dashboard has been given a swooping yet angular instrument panel. The instrument gauge cluster is three pods, two analog gauges and one digital screen give you all the vital information of the CX-9. In front of the gauges is a three-spoked steering wheel wrapped in leather. The infotainment system is a touch screen that sits atop the dashboard, and can either be controlled by your fingers or by the cluster of buttons and knobs on the center console. Storage is abundant in the new CX-9, as deep door pockets, a large center console and an alcove above the shifter give you plenty of places to put your stuff.

The two sets of rear seats fold down to give you an ample amount of space to haul cargo. There’s 71.2 total cubic feet of space behind the front seats for you to utilize. Or lift up the seats and have room for 7 passengers, and still have 14.4 cubic-feet behind the third row, while still being roomy for all your passengers.

Ready to own your own CX-9? Check out our inventory and Lujack Mazda and contact

us now to take yours home today! 

Mazda Recalls

                Mazda has issued recalls on two of their vehicles in the last couple months. The vehicles affected by these recalls are the 2008-2011 Mazda Tribute and the brand new 2017 Mazda6.

                The 2017 Mazda6, is being recalled for a turn signal malfunction. Only models with the optional accessory foglights are included in the recall. Mazda says that it installed the wrong combination switch. The result of this mistake is that the turn signals may not be canceled with a turn of the wheel, and thus, the driver may be going along with a turn signal on unknowingly. Only 180 vehicles are being recalled for this mistake.

               

                The Mazda Tribute has two different recalls for two separate sets of years. First the 2008-2011 models years are being recalled for a failure in the electric power steering assist feature.  Mazda dealers will update the software for the power steering control module and the instrument cluster module. If a vehicle shows a history of a loss of the torque sensor signal or fault codes relating to the power steering control module when the vehicle is brought in for the repair, the affected components will be replaced for free.  33,000 Mazda Tributes are affected in this recall, these Tributes were manufactured October 5, 2006 through September 11, 2010.

                The second Mazda Tribute recall is much more serious. The 2010 and 2011 Mazda Tribute crossover that have the 3.0-liter engine, run the risk that the Fuel Delivery Module may crack and leak gasoline. That could lead to a fire. On the approximately 1,000 vehicles this defect is found on Mazda will replace the part with a redesigned one starting around December 15th.

                All information regarding the recalls can be obtained by contacting Mazda at 1-248-295-7859. Once you have the information you can schedule your serviceappointment with us and check out out inventory of other new Mazda models while you wait.

Mazda3 Redesign

The small sedan market has typically been controlled by two cars, the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla, but now the Mazda3 is push for the front of the pack. With its dynamic styling and reasonable pricing, the Mazda3 is just the car for you.

The 2016 Mazda3 comes with your choice of two 4 cylinder engines a 2.0 or 2.5-litre. This car will not break any speed records, but it has enough pep to scoot around town. The 2.5-litre goes 0-60 in in just about 7 seconds with the 2.0 taking a little longer. The 2.0-litre in an inline- 4 that puts out 155 horsepower with 150 lb-ft torque, the 2.5 by contrast puts out 184 horsepower with 185 lb-ft. The Mazda3 also come in an automatic or manual transmission, with a clutch pedal that is easy to use for someone new to driving a stick.

The Mazda3 boosts one of the best interiors in its class. Soft leather wrap the steering wheel and seats, and the gauges are sensibly laid out. The infotainment center has two sets of controls, the touchscreen LCD that is perched at the atop the dashboard and physical controls next to the shifter. The physical controls are so user friendly that you tend to forget that it has touchscreen controls.

The Mazda3 is very affordable, with prices starting in the low $20,000 range, meaning you get the sporty-ness of the Civic or Corolla at a fraction of the cost.

Check out Inventory to view our selections of the Mazda3 and contact us today to schedule a test drive.   

Mazda to recall CX-7 for Steering Issue

  

One year after Mazda recalled 190,000 CX-9’s, they are issuing another massive recall, this time on the CX-7. Both recalls have been issued for potential steering loss. CX-7’s from model year 2007-2012 are all affected.

The problem happens when water get into the suspension ball joints, more specifically salty water. The salt contaminated water occurs do to snowy conditions in the winter time. Salt used to remove ice and snow seeps into the ball joints and over time, cause the ball joint to corrode and then it has the possibility of separating from the lower suspension control arm. If this happens, it could cause loss of steering and is a major crash theat.

The vehicles affected by this recall are Mazda CX-7’s with model year 2007-2012, 190,102 vehicles in total. They will be issuing the recalls in certain states begin with, states where those cars are facing the most severe threats. The upper mid-west and the north east are the most affected states. 22 states and Washington D.C. are on the list for recalls, including Iowa, Illinois, Missouri and Wisconsin.

Mazda will notify and dealerships will replace both lower control arms at no cost. Replacement parts are not currently available but Mazda is working diligently to fix that problem. Notices should be sent to owners around mid-October 2016 and a follow notice once parts are available.

Owners can also contact Mazda customer service at 800-222-5500. The Mazda recall number is 9716H. You can check out a list of affect states here and check back with Mazda USA for more information. Contact us to schedule your repairs here.

2017 Mazda3 giving sporty a softer side

Updating cars year after year means no two updates are often alike. Sometimes, you'll get a new paint color. Other times, you'll end up with a whole bunch of new stuff, even though it's not a proper mid-cycle refresh or an introduction of a new generation. Mazda's updates to the 2017 Mazda3 rest in the latter category. Everywhere you look, there's something new. 

I'll start with the exterior. It's largely unchanged, save for a new grille and a new rear bumper on the Mazda3 hatchback. If you are willing to drop some coin, you can also upgrade the 3's peepers to LEDs, which is a nice touch that saves you from having to replace bulbs ever again. Now, you just replace the whole headlight. 

Inside, the 3's rocking a new steering wheel, which has been nicked from the CX-9 crossover, and can now be heated. The door cubbies have an extra 10 inches of opening, the cup holders now have a sliding cover, and an electronic parking brake is now standard. The optional HUD has been upgraded with full color, and the LCDs inside the gauge cluster have been tweaked to provide higher contrast.

Driving has been improved in several ways, or not, depending on how you view improvement. The most obvious addition is G-Vectoring Control. There's also a new Sport Mode for automatic-transmission models, and the car is 3 decibels quieter at 25 mph thanks to more insulation and redesigned weather-stripping. So, the car is softer than before, and more in tune with the needs of drivers that aren't exactly chasing sporty characteristics.

Its safety suite receives some upgrades, as well. A new front camera extends the operating speed for its autonomous emergency braking, and Mazda's traffic-sign recognition system will read traffic signs and display them on the HUD.

The 2017 Mazda3 goes on sale in September, and pricing will be announced closer to its release date.

Check out our great Mazda vehicles and contact us to test drive yours today!