10 Best 2016 Midsize Cars for Teenagers

2. 2016 Mazda 3

What’s New?

For the 2016 Mazda 3, the standard SV trim level has been dropped. Therefore, the 3i Sports trim is currently the base model. Also, Mazda has added more standard (upscale) features this year. The small Japanese Automaker has long been widely-known for adding more fun to all its products, whether large or small. The zoom-zoom factor will enhance the overall appeal more so if you opt for the forward collision warnings that boost the car’s rating to the Top Safety Pick. A rearview camera is on each Mazda 3 while automatic wipers, automatic headlights, and the sunroof are standard on the trim levels greater than Sport. A manual transmission is no longer provided on the 3s Touring.

Exterior Features

A rearview camera is standard on each Mazda3. The vehicle boasts a width of 70.7 in. and a height of 57.3 in. as well as the least ground clearance (laden) is 6.1 in. The Mazda3 has daytime running lights, halogen headlights, rear window antenna (integrated), beltline trim (black), dual power side mirrors (body-colored), intermittent windshield wipers (variable), and 16-inch wheels. The car has attractive and svelte proportions. It also boasts a five-point grille which integrates into thin, slanted, and swept-back headlights. Mazda3 features a sweeping shoulder line. The roofline is more slanted. The entire exterior appearance of Mazda3 offers it a sports car look.

Interior Features

Standard features on the Mazda3 include a rearview camera, cruise control, a USB port, push-button start, a six-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, HD Radio, smartphone app integration (with Pandora Internet radio, a system which reads text messages aloud,) and a Mazda Connect infotainment system. Optional features include a moonroof, navigation, a nine-speaker Bose sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, rear cross traffic alert, and Smart City Brake Support system of Mazda that can automatically apply the brakes at minimal speeds if any obstacle is detected.

Technology

Anybody looking to utilize their Mazda3 Grand Touring to the maximum can choose the Technology Package, a choice only available on models fitted with the 2.5-liter engine. This package includes i-Eloop of Mazda, an energy regeneration system which transforms kinetic braking energy into electricity, feeding a battery which powers the car’s accessories, improving fuel-efficiency in the process. Also, the Technology Package throws in i-ActiveSense features of Mazda. These are developed to enhance safety and are often found above the compact segment. They include Smart City Brake Support for the stop-and-go traffic, Automatic High Beam Control, and Forward Obstruction Warning, a Lane Departure Warning System. Last, the cruise control is improved with the adaptive radar system.

Engine/ Fuel Efficiency

The 2016 Mazda 3i versions are driven by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine which produces 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The estimated fuel economy of EPA is also great. The sedan checks in at 34 MPG combined (30 city/41 highway) with an automatic transmission.

Safety

Safety features are abundant and include 6 standard airbags, stability control, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. Also, the Mazda3 features a collapsible steering column to reduce damage in front-end collisions and a hill-start system to reduce rollback when starting on a hill. Optional safety features include a blind spot warning system, rear view cameras, and Smart City Brake Support, a system which uses a laser to sense forward collisions.

Posted on May 22, 2023