Driving Sports

The Mazda3 has been an unmitigated success story for the Hiroshima-based manufacturer, in fact just last October Mazda rolled the 2-millionth Mazda3 off it's Japanese production line. It's no wonder then, that the new 2010 Mazda3 is more an evolution than a revolution in design. On the outside, it shares a very close resemblance to the outgoing model, but with a more airstreamed shell.

The cabin has evolved as well, looking to give a much sportier throne from which to command the little 4-banger around town. It has the latest gizmod options, including Bluetooth hands-free phone, Push-button start, keyless entry and high-intensity discharge headlamps with auto leveling.

Powertrain includes a newly-developed 2.5-liter motor, producing 167hp and 168 ft-lbs of torque. The new Mazda3 will also be world's first use of a catalyst contructed with single nanotechnology. This, apparently, is even better than "standard" nanotechnology and should allow the low emissions without having to use platinum and palladium, key components in modern catalysts.

My wife bought a Mazda3 in 2004 when they first came out, and outside of it being a bit loud on the freeway, typical for low-rent city cars, it's been a fantastic little ride. I can't wait to test drive this new one. The 5-door variant will make its public debut at the Bologna Motor Sport on December 3, 2008.The 4-door sedan made it's debut at the L.A. Auto Show, earlier this month.