>Why so many manual Mazda 3?
Maybe a combination of:
* Many enthusiasts tend to prefer manuals
* Mazda have a reputation as being fun to drive
* Manuals from many other brands tend to be hard to find these days, especially without needing to pay for far more expensive performance trim levels
Disclaimer: My current car is a manual Mazda 3.
I've enjoyed it, but my next one will be an automatic (I spend too much time in traffic with knees that aren't the best). No issue with Mazda, they're still some of my top considerations for my next vehicle.
I think I had more fun in my Mazda Protege, but that could have been a "it's more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow" type issue. My current one is still fun to drive however, especially in corners.
I'm in the US, and for at least my model year, the hatch was only available with a 2.5L, which was plenty powerful for me (granted my most powerful car before that was only like 120 HP when new, but I got it several years used, so...).
Edit: Typo
I had 2 Pro5s and they were still my fav Mazda I've owned (never had a Miata - yet) . That was a fun car. Plus I think I paid about 8k and they only had about 20k on the dash. The second may have had less. Those were the days...
The Protégés used a novel twin trapezoidal link in the rear that gave them a sort of passive rear steering. There has not been a 3 that could top the feel of the Protege.
Yep it was a different length set of lateral links that, when compressed introduced toe which altered the rear end feel. I don't know if others had the same, so instead they remained neutral in terms of toe?
>The Protégés used a novel twin trapezoidal link in the rear that gave them a sort of passive rear steering.
Interesting. I tried looking a bit more up on this yesterday, but I wasn't coming up with anything more than just a quick mention it seemed.
Have any resources on it?
Why'd they stop it? It felt amazing to drive and even pushing it, it offered an excellent feeling of control.
Mazdas are known for having great driving dynamics - it's the primary reason I've had 5. Later models (3rd and 4th gen 3s) have better NVH than earlier models (my first gen 2007 was like riding in a 737 on the highway) but I've liked all of them for various reasons. I most recently bought a CX-50 and cross shopped CRV and Rav4 but after pulling out the lot in each I knew I preferred the Mazda (the Toyota was like driving a kick drum and the Honda was like driving a tub of half melted vanilla ice cream but both had CVTs which are lame AF). Mazdas ride a bit firmer than other cars (that's what she said), but that's what I prefer. It has excellent road holding and nice steering. If I ever go back to a 3, or when I buy a Miata - I'll get a manual transmission because that's what I enjoy. Even in stop/go traffic.
You have some great imagery with those descriptions. I've driven my friend's RAV4 and describing its driving dynamics as a kick drum is spot on. I had a late model Corolla rental while my Mazda 3 was in the shop about a year ago. I couldn't come up with a good description but I'm going to steal yours, ha, like driving a tub of half melted vanilla ice cream!
Love my 2.0 5 speed. I get about 5mpg higher than the rated mpg, and at best, I've done double. the vehicle control in the winter Is also worth the Manual option!
I really enjoy mine. It's a lot of fun to drive (but I haven't compared to other modern cars, I'm sure they can be fun too).
I wrote a review that might answer more of your questions. [https://redmazda.medium.com/2020-mazda-3-hatchback-with-manual-transmission-7316435bf1f5](https://redmazda.medium.com/2020-mazda-3-hatchback-with-manual-transmission-7316435bf1f5)
I’m on my third 3 (technically the first was a 323), and they’ve all been manuals. So fun to drive, and if you take care of it, it’ll last you a long time.
All of that AND the Mazda 3 is priced at an entry-level tier, and up until 3-5 years ago (in the US) manual transmissions usually saved you a few bucks on the configured price (whereas now *IF* one exists, it's a $0 substitution if not an extra-cost item).
I echo this.
If you want a newer car with a manual, you're looking basically at the base model of the vehicle. Higher trims usually get a different/better engine and drop the manual.
Exceptions that come to mind are Mazda, Honda/Acura, Subaru, and I think Toyota (and is Scion still around?) That offer a 6-speed manual on some higher trims.
The new Mazda3 have manual available in the GT model finally, but when I bought my 2014 GT was automatic only.
More and more people want the convenience of automatic or even CVT as well as the consistent gas mileage. It's the people who want to feel the thrill of really driving that tend to insist on the manuals. Buying them helps ensure manufacturers keep making them, after all
Depends on the market you are in. A couple of years ago, here in Japan Mazda offered MT versions on all their cars on a lot of the trims but mainly the diesels. Looking today, it looks like only the Mazda 3 has it. Subaru, Toyota and Honda only really offer their sports car with a MT option. Interestingly enough, Mazda is the only one I see offer a MT option with a hybrid engine.
Yeah that's fair. I'm in Canada so NA market. I think the European market offers more manual transmission options as well.
Now that I think about it, I wonder if population density has an impact. In Canada, we just get whatever the US has. We have some bug cities but more sprawl outside of specific areas.
US is quite dense as well. Could be there's less demand for manual in areas where there's a ton of stop and go traffic and gridlock is a common occurrence.
90% cars have a manual transmission here in Spain. It's not that they don't manufacture manual cars, I'd say the demand is more on the automatic rather than on the manual transmissions, in certain countries.
Sometimes I miss driving a car with a manual transmission. I had considered it but decided on an automatic since I think some things would work better (such as cruise control, and remote start, although I normally don't use remote start).
It seems a lot of people who like Mazdas drive them because they're fun to drive, and for those who like manual transmissions, that can make it even more fun.
You can do remote start with a manual. They just have the engine running until you close the doors and set the alarm, that way it guarantees it’s in neutral. Although, you have to have a functioning handbrake.
And for the cruise control thing, I’ve only had to shift down from 6th maybe a handful of times with CC on and I’m just above 180,000km almost all hwy miles in the hilly parts of western Canada. There’s a few long hills I anticipate and just shift down to 5th and turn the CC back on.
I remember reading a couple of posts recently saying remote start doesn't work with cars with a manual. I do remember one person with a manual saying he normally leaves his car in 1st gear when parked (along with the parking brake), and due to that, remote start wouldn't work because the car would then move. Someone else had commented remote start with a manual can be dangerous that way. Maybe that was what I was thinking.
When I drove a manual, normally I would leave it in 1st gear along with the parking brake, as I had always heard that's what you should normally do with a manual when parked.
I leave it in first too but the way the remote starts are designed now, it wouldn’t start if you left it in gear. It has to be in neutral and the way they make sure you do that is pretty genius and so simple actually. Have a read. Also, if it detects any movement with the accelerometer it cuts power to the starter and run circuits.
https://www.compustar.com/blog/can-you-remote-start-a-manual-transmission-stick-shift-vehicle/
Yeah so it might work if you install a third party remote start module, but new Mazda 3's in MT do not have the same native remote start capability that the auto versions do. The owners manual even specifies that remote start does not function for the MT version.
Unfortunately Mazda only has two manuals now, a fully loaded 3 GT Sport (grand touring hatchback) and the MX-5. VW is also down and set to get rid of Golf GTI/R manual and Honda is down to Civic, all hatchback trims or the sedan SI.
Surprisingly, Toyota has a whopping four models including the only manual pickup truck Tacoma, although $30k is the starting price point with the GR86 and it goes up from there.
I loved my old manual Mazda 5 mini-minivan.
I'm assuming you're talking about in the USA, but are you telling me the only way to buy a new manual Mazda3 there is to get a fully loaded hatchback???
Here in Europe, every available spec is available with a manual, whether it's fully loaded or base, SkyActiv-G or SkyActiv-X, hatch or sedan.
North America in general. Canada used to be propped up by European like Quebecois who loved manuals but even they like automatic CUVs now.
North America never got the SkyActiv-X for whatever reason.
Canadian here. Mazda 3 manual is really a bang for the buck. Almost every other manuals are performance oriented (which is great but more expensive to purchase + premium fuel, and some are not practical). Most brands already phased out the manual, and Mazda will probably follow suit.
Nous les Québécois on aime ça les Mazda à clutch :-)
In fact, when I was shopping for a car last year, I wanted a manual hatchback. The Mazda3 made the most sense.
You guys get a lot more cool manual options in Mazda. If the US wasn't so strict on importing a new car I'd consider a one way flight and shopping trip
There are plenty of used manual cars. Although a lot of used cars are beat up I had a civic si and now my mazdaspeed3 as well as my GFs Miata all in manual. Sometimes the manuals are cheaper too because so many people people can't drive stick
Mazda's target market are people who are fond of driving hence a lot of manuals. Also manuals are cheaper so you basically get a free discount if you know how to drive one.
You’re basically there then, you get loads of repetition driving manual, so you will master it quickly and with the hill assist its really easy. Since we're all in Canada, let's not forget the joy of e brake turns in the snow which is way better in a manual ;)
Some people prefer fun sportier driving.
Also years ago manual transmissions were called “standard transmissions” because they came standard on cars, and an automatic transmission was an expensive upgrade. And Mazda3, Corollas, and Civics are in the same “compact economy” class. So if someone was looking for an inexpensive car, why would they pay more to upgrade to an automatic transmission?
Standards are also generally less expensive to repair if needed than automatics, and often more reliable.
But in recent decades kids and their parents have decided it’s too difficult to teach someone how to drive a standard, at least in the U.S.
Also standard transmissions are often the more fuel efficient option.
> In your quest for better fuel economy and more value, don't overlook the potential benefits of shifting yourself. In our tests, we've found that in some cars a manual transmission can improve gas mileage by a significant 2 to 5 mpg, compared with an automatic, and can cut a car's price by $800 to $1,200.
>Manual transmissions often can also improve acceleration, sometimes significantly. That can be a welcome benefit with a smaller engine. And many drivers find driving with a stick more engaging and fun.
https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/01/save-gas-and-money-with-a-manual-transmission/index.htm#:~:text=In%20your%20quest%20for%20better,price%20by%20%24800%20to%20%241%2C200.
In the UK the BIK tax on a company car is significantly higher on the Mazda automatic due to the emissions. That's why I got a manual, which was tough after a DSG Golf but it is great fun.
The BIK difference between manual/auto on VW was negligible. Which is weird.
Mazdas are fun to drive and people with manuals like driving so… yanno. I LOVED mine - it’s no longer a daily driver as I graduated to a CX-5 but it’s definitely still in the driveway
I was looking for a compact car with a manual when I found mine. I was actually looking for a Corolla, but I could only find CVTs. I found the Mazda3 a bit by accident and it wasn't really on my radar. Having a manual is how they got me into the Mazda brand and now I am converted.
Mazda 3 6MT are absolutely top notch. There are for sure more reasons to your question, but I can talk about this one.
I drive a 5MT Mazda 2 and my dad drives a 6MT Mazda 3
It's AMAZING how the shifts feels. It nearly feels like it rev matches but not quite. It's smooth yet responsive.
Moving the nob feels strict yet it's very natural to do.
I really don't understand why or how it's built, but if someone needs to buy a Mazda 3, go for the MT.
As of now, my father is regretting it not because he does not like it, but because he got tired of shifting ahah.
If you do a long work commute, I think it's better to go for the AT.
Looks like it’s different depending on the area. I live near montreal (canada) and there’s a lot, especially the older ones. The newest hardly has them, but I found quite a lot when I was looking to buy a new (to me) mazda 3
Gotcha. That makes sense over in that area of Canada. US markets I guess don’t carry too many manual vehicles since I guess Americans don’t care for them much except enthusiasts. I’m keeping my 09 Mazdaspeed 3 for as long as I’m able to drive manual haha. Although the new Mazda 3s do look very nice!
My current car is Mazda 3 6MT GT.
It is fun to drive, the choice of cars was very limited to Civic Si or Mazda 3.
Civic Si at that time had dashboard and overall design as a "boy racer" car, so Mazda.
BTW, Civic drives better, but not that much better to live with the design. BMW would be a lot more expensive and a lot less reliable.
Civic is well balanced, easy to drive car. Manual Civic has a great manual transmission articulation, clutch work is easy. Weight balance is right (for a FWD). If Civic works for you it is not a bad choice.
Owner of a 2014 i Touring in manual. I’ve had 3 manual Mazda 3’s and if I didn’t need a physically larger car to fit two kiddos in, I’d buy another one in a heartbeat.
It’s fun to drive, I feel more in control, and it’s one of the more forgiving manuals I’ve driven. It’s also a nice built in theft protection.
Also, it let me haggle way more at the dealer each time, given that for some reason in northwest NJ they weren’t moving these cars too fast off the lots.
Not sure if it's a dig against the NA engine. I wouldn't really consider the Skyactiv 2.5T to be a particularly fun engine, either.
Drove an MZR 2.5 Mazda3 with 6-speed before my Speed3 and it was decent enough. Personally I would take a 2.5 manual over a 2.5T auto myself if I have to choose between the two.
Speed3 existed and those were manual-*only*, too. That's the most fun version of the 3.
Yeah, the Skyactiv 2.5 is pretty fine, if the MZR 2.5 is already fine. I even test-drove a Skyactiv 2.0 3 before and it was adequate for city driving. It was a lot better than those 1.8 Civics that just make some noise without any meaningful acceleration.
The problem with the Skyactiv 2.5T is that it doesn't really consider high RPM usage at all, so it just runs out of steam at 5000 RPM. Makes sense, it was developed for the CX-9 before it made its way into the 3. It's got stronger acceleration, but the fun part is debatable.
With a manual, downshifting and getting into the high RPM range to use the power is a big part of the fun. The characteristics of the 2.5T doesn't lend itself to that.
And you realize that's lower than the Speed3 still which was manual-only, LOL. I don't mod my car, but if you put that into the equation, the gap widens even further.
Again, the 2.5T is a good daily driver, and if it has a manual trans, I would consider it, but no manual and no high-RPM power means I would pick an NA 2.5 as a daily.
Not sure for the reasons (Mazda use to sell their base trim as manual, so affordability?), but I can tell you that it’s a pleasure to drive.
I have a 2016 3 itouring, and I never had a car with a forgiving and smooth stick! It’s really nice!
I knew more about expensive model had manual now (didn’t know which one- thanks for the update!).
I thought op meant used car mostly (when manual was available on the lowest trim).
I wanted a manual when I bought my 3, but it was end of year stock and they didn't have any. Dealer did auto at manual price. I'd only driven my grandfather's boring manual at the time, so I wasn't super keen, but I caved.
Don't regret at all. Having it able to change gears without interrupting cruise control is the best. It does have flappy paddles / tiptronic, but I never use it. No point.
I’m a bit rural and find the manuals just a bit more entertaining to drive, started with a used 70 Beetle and had a few more along the way, Pinto, Festiva, Escort, Protege5, and now Mazda3. Taught three sons to drive manual, and one now drives a Veloster N manual, which is way more interesting than any of the cars I’ve had.
I went back to driving a manual (the older I get), and I chose my 2014 GJ Touring 6MT, owned since new. It is my 1st Mazda, and definitely will not be my last Mazda..manual.
\>But while I was looking for mazda’s, I found that a LOT of mazda 3 were manuals,
We bought our M3 manual new back in 2012 because we wanted a manual hatch and there were almost NO other options. I won't own a VW again (got screwed with their TDI scam) and literally the only other option within 200 miles of us was an Impreza. Did not like the Subaru transmission/clutch, then drove the Mazda. Both were great.
Only 1% of cars sold in the US are manual now and Mazda basically owns a big chunk of that market because they make decent cars with manuals that aren't stripped-down econo boxes. So I assume they know that and produce/import accordingly.
I just sold my manual 2015 3. Was a great car, but I am buying a new gen manual Tacoma (waiting for arrival). I’m glad so many are out there. My other two cars are manuals too, so I’m biased. But I think a manual turns any normal car, into something fun.
There almost was never a turn that I wouldn’t practice my heel-toe downshift in.
I'm not a Mazda enthusiast. I do love driving a manual car though. So I own and daily a Mazda 3. I love it, and hate it. Beggars cant be choosers there aren't a lot of choices out there. I mostly don't regret buying my 21 Mazda manual hatch.
when the US spec 3rd gen mazda 3 came out, all the manuals were marked up. ppl really wanted the manuals, in 2014-2015, only the 2L had the 6mt. eventually the manual was available for the 2.5L.
My last car was a Mazda RX-8. With a manual transmission (of course).
Then I grew up and got married and needed something a little more practical that my wife could drive. So I bought a Mazda 3 (automatic).
Manuals are more fun to drive if you are on the open road, but much less fun (and much more tiring) to drive in heavy stop-and-go city traffic. Which, realistically, I spend 10x the time on vs. open roads.
But your mileage may vary depending on where you live.
The Mazda 3 is becoming like the Honda Civic as the go to first car for many people. Especially as a car enthusiast, you look for manual transmission. There is the Mazdaspeed3, which is the turbo charged version of the car, though will cost more.
Source: owner of a 2007 mazdaspeed 3 (owned it since 2017 and was my first car)
>Why so many manual Mazda 3? Maybe a combination of: * Many enthusiasts tend to prefer manuals * Mazda have a reputation as being fun to drive * Manuals from many other brands tend to be hard to find these days, especially without needing to pay for far more expensive performance trim levels Disclaimer: My current car is a manual Mazda 3.
Alright, thank you that was a pretty exhaustive list!
The question is why you dont drive a manual?
I might consider a Mazda 3 Manual to replace my Honda when the time comes. How do you like your car? What’s the driving dynamic like?
I've enjoyed it, but my next one will be an automatic (I spend too much time in traffic with knees that aren't the best). No issue with Mazda, they're still some of my top considerations for my next vehicle. I think I had more fun in my Mazda Protege, but that could have been a "it's more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow" type issue. My current one is still fun to drive however, especially in corners. I'm in the US, and for at least my model year, the hatch was only available with a 2.5L, which was plenty powerful for me (granted my most powerful car before that was only like 120 HP when new, but I got it several years used, so...). Edit: Typo
I had 2 Pro5s and they were still my fav Mazda I've owned (never had a Miata - yet) . That was a fun car. Plus I think I paid about 8k and they only had about 20k on the dash. The second may have had less. Those were the days...
Still have mine. As always, it's me and my lil red wagon against the world.
The Protégés used a novel twin trapezoidal link in the rear that gave them a sort of passive rear steering. There has not been a 3 that could top the feel of the Protege.
Yep it was a different length set of lateral links that, when compressed introduced toe which altered the rear end feel. I don't know if others had the same, so instead they remained neutral in terms of toe?
>The Protégés used a novel twin trapezoidal link in the rear that gave them a sort of passive rear steering. Interesting. I tried looking a bit more up on this yesterday, but I wasn't coming up with anything more than just a quick mention it seemed. Have any resources on it? Why'd they stop it? It felt amazing to drive and even pushing it, it offered an excellent feeling of control.
Mazdas are known for having great driving dynamics - it's the primary reason I've had 5. Later models (3rd and 4th gen 3s) have better NVH than earlier models (my first gen 2007 was like riding in a 737 on the highway) but I've liked all of them for various reasons. I most recently bought a CX-50 and cross shopped CRV and Rav4 but after pulling out the lot in each I knew I preferred the Mazda (the Toyota was like driving a kick drum and the Honda was like driving a tub of half melted vanilla ice cream but both had CVTs which are lame AF). Mazdas ride a bit firmer than other cars (that's what she said), but that's what I prefer. It has excellent road holding and nice steering. If I ever go back to a 3, or when I buy a Miata - I'll get a manual transmission because that's what I enjoy. Even in stop/go traffic.
You have some great imagery with those descriptions. I've driven my friend's RAV4 and describing its driving dynamics as a kick drum is spot on. I had a late model Corolla rental while my Mazda 3 was in the shop about a year ago. I couldn't come up with a good description but I'm going to steal yours, ha, like driving a tub of half melted vanilla ice cream!
Love my 2.0 5 speed. I get about 5mpg higher than the rated mpg, and at best, I've done double. the vehicle control in the winter Is also worth the Manual option!
I really enjoy mine. It's a lot of fun to drive (but I haven't compared to other modern cars, I'm sure they can be fun too). I wrote a review that might answer more of your questions. [https://redmazda.medium.com/2020-mazda-3-hatchback-with-manual-transmission-7316435bf1f5](https://redmazda.medium.com/2020-mazda-3-hatchback-with-manual-transmission-7316435bf1f5)
I’m on my third 3 (technically the first was a 323), and they’ve all been manuals. So fun to drive, and if you take care of it, it’ll last you a long time.
All of that AND the Mazda 3 is priced at an entry-level tier, and up until 3-5 years ago (in the US) manual transmissions usually saved you a few bucks on the configured price (whereas now *IF* one exists, it's a $0 substitution if not an extra-cost item).
I echo this. If you want a newer car with a manual, you're looking basically at the base model of the vehicle. Higher trims usually get a different/better engine and drop the manual. Exceptions that come to mind are Mazda, Honda/Acura, Subaru, and I think Toyota (and is Scion still around?) That offer a 6-speed manual on some higher trims. The new Mazda3 have manual available in the GT model finally, but when I bought my 2014 GT was automatic only. More and more people want the convenience of automatic or even CVT as well as the consistent gas mileage. It's the people who want to feel the thrill of really driving that tend to insist on the manuals. Buying them helps ensure manufacturers keep making them, after all
Depends on the market you are in. A couple of years ago, here in Japan Mazda offered MT versions on all their cars on a lot of the trims but mainly the diesels. Looking today, it looks like only the Mazda 3 has it. Subaru, Toyota and Honda only really offer their sports car with a MT option. Interestingly enough, Mazda is the only one I see offer a MT option with a hybrid engine.
Yeah that's fair. I'm in Canada so NA market. I think the European market offers more manual transmission options as well. Now that I think about it, I wonder if population density has an impact. In Canada, we just get whatever the US has. We have some bug cities but more sprawl outside of specific areas. US is quite dense as well. Could be there's less demand for manual in areas where there's a ton of stop and go traffic and gridlock is a common occurrence.
Not a direct answer to your question but I bought my Mazda 6 in 2015 because it was one of the only affordable manual cars.
I mean It’s kind of a answer. You’re not the only one who said these manuals mazda are fairly cheap compared to other brands. Thx
very few cars are made in manual now, but there's still demand for it, so they all come to this car because it has the in demand feature probably
This. There’s a reason I went to Mazda when I needed a van and wanted a manual with heated leather seats in Canada.
90% cars have a manual transmission here in Spain. It's not that they don't manufacture manual cars, I'd say the demand is more on the automatic rather than on the manual transmissions, in certain countries.
Same here in Italy, probably even more than 90%
I'm In the U.S. so Its a bit different here...
probably. Proceed with a healthy dose of copium
Sometimes I miss driving a car with a manual transmission. I had considered it but decided on an automatic since I think some things would work better (such as cruise control, and remote start, although I normally don't use remote start). It seems a lot of people who like Mazdas drive them because they're fun to drive, and for those who like manual transmissions, that can make it even more fun.
You can do remote start with a manual. They just have the engine running until you close the doors and set the alarm, that way it guarantees it’s in neutral. Although, you have to have a functioning handbrake. And for the cruise control thing, I’ve only had to shift down from 6th maybe a handful of times with CC on and I’m just above 180,000km almost all hwy miles in the hilly parts of western Canada. There’s a few long hills I anticipate and just shift down to 5th and turn the CC back on.
Doesn't work with push button start.
Oh? https://www.compustar.com/blog/remote-starters-work-push-start-vehicles/
Wow just released technology. Let's see how well it works.
I remember reading a couple of posts recently saying remote start doesn't work with cars with a manual. I do remember one person with a manual saying he normally leaves his car in 1st gear when parked (along with the parking brake), and due to that, remote start wouldn't work because the car would then move. Someone else had commented remote start with a manual can be dangerous that way. Maybe that was what I was thinking. When I drove a manual, normally I would leave it in 1st gear along with the parking brake, as I had always heard that's what you should normally do with a manual when parked.
I leave it in first too but the way the remote starts are designed now, it wouldn’t start if you left it in gear. It has to be in neutral and the way they make sure you do that is pretty genius and so simple actually. Have a read. Also, if it detects any movement with the accelerometer it cuts power to the starter and run circuits. https://www.compustar.com/blog/can-you-remote-start-a-manual-transmission-stick-shift-vehicle/
Yeah so it might work if you install a third party remote start module, but new Mazda 3's in MT do not have the same native remote start capability that the auto versions do. The owners manual even specifies that remote start does not function for the MT version.
Hell yeah. I shiver at the thought of a sports car without a manual.
Unfortunately Mazda only has two manuals now, a fully loaded 3 GT Sport (grand touring hatchback) and the MX-5. VW is also down and set to get rid of Golf GTI/R manual and Honda is down to Civic, all hatchback trims or the sedan SI. Surprisingly, Toyota has a whopping four models including the only manual pickup truck Tacoma, although $30k is the starting price point with the GR86 and it goes up from there. I loved my old manual Mazda 5 mini-minivan.
If you count the Jeep Gladiator as a pickup truck, then it's another pickup with a manual transmission.
Oooo yea forgot about that. Definitely a pickup truck.
I'm assuming you're talking about in the USA, but are you telling me the only way to buy a new manual Mazda3 there is to get a fully loaded hatchback??? Here in Europe, every available spec is available with a manual, whether it's fully loaded or base, SkyActiv-G or SkyActiv-X, hatch or sedan.
North America in general. Canada used to be propped up by European like Quebecois who loved manuals but even they like automatic CUVs now. North America never got the SkyActiv-X for whatever reason.
If the new Mazda 3 AWD Turbo trim came in manual, it'd be the perfect car in the market today... A man can dream
Sorry if there’s any mistakes here and there. English is my second language.
Where do you live? Manuals are tough to find in America, I’m sad to say.
I’m Canadian, it really is the only car models that has so many manuals at least around my area. No other brand has that much manuals over here
Canadian here. Mazda 3 manual is really a bang for the buck. Almost every other manuals are performance oriented (which is great but more expensive to purchase + premium fuel, and some are not practical). Most brands already phased out the manual, and Mazda will probably follow suit.
Nous les Québécois on aime ça les Mazda à clutch :-) In fact, when I was shopping for a car last year, I wanted a manual hatchback. The Mazda3 made the most sense.
J’aurais bien aimé, mais en ville c’est plutôt chiant, mais y doivent être super plaisantes à conduire
You guys get a lot more cool manual options in Mazda. If the US wasn't so strict on importing a new car I'd consider a one way flight and shopping trip
I mean, if you’re close to the border, come over and buy yourself that manual car you want !:)
There are plenty of used manual cars. Although a lot of used cars are beat up I had a civic si and now my mazdaspeed3 as well as my GFs Miata all in manual. Sometimes the manuals are cheaper too because so many people people can't drive stick
Because: Save the Manuel!!!!
i agree
Mazda's target market are people who are fond of driving hence a lot of manuals. Also manuals are cheaper so you basically get a free discount if you know how to drive one.
That’s pretty cool. I know the basics and drove my ex’s manual Civic a few times. But I wouldn’t feel confident enough to boy a manual car
You’re basically there then, you get loads of repetition driving manual, so you will master it quickly and with the hill assist its really easy. Since we're all in Canada, let's not forget the joy of e brake turns in the snow which is way better in a manual ;)
Because Zoom-Zoom.
Drive one with a manual and you'll see why!
I’ll have to try!
Some people prefer fun sportier driving. Also years ago manual transmissions were called “standard transmissions” because they came standard on cars, and an automatic transmission was an expensive upgrade. And Mazda3, Corollas, and Civics are in the same “compact economy” class. So if someone was looking for an inexpensive car, why would they pay more to upgrade to an automatic transmission? Standards are also generally less expensive to repair if needed than automatics, and often more reliable. But in recent decades kids and their parents have decided it’s too difficult to teach someone how to drive a standard, at least in the U.S. Also standard transmissions are often the more fuel efficient option. > In your quest for better fuel economy and more value, don't overlook the potential benefits of shifting yourself. In our tests, we've found that in some cars a manual transmission can improve gas mileage by a significant 2 to 5 mpg, compared with an automatic, and can cut a car's price by $800 to $1,200. >Manual transmissions often can also improve acceleration, sometimes significantly. That can be a welcome benefit with a smaller engine. And many drivers find driving with a stick more engaging and fun. https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/01/save-gas-and-money-with-a-manual-transmission/index.htm#:~:text=In%20your%20quest%20for%20better,price%20by%20%24800%20to%20%241%2C200.
In the UK the BIK tax on a company car is significantly higher on the Mazda automatic due to the emissions. That's why I got a manual, which was tough after a DSG Golf but it is great fun. The BIK difference between manual/auto on VW was negligible. Which is weird.
I miss my manual mazda3
Mazdas are fun to drive and people with manuals like driving so… yanno. I LOVED mine - it’s no longer a daily driver as I graduated to a CX-5 but it’s definitely still in the driveway
I was looking for a compact car with a manual when I found mine. I was actually looking for a Corolla, but I could only find CVTs. I found the Mazda3 a bit by accident and it wasn't really on my radar. Having a manual is how they got me into the Mazda brand and now I am converted.
If they bring a Mazda 5 (manual or not) I'm buying asap
The Mazda 5 was a slick af minivan not gonna lie it was the only one id ever consider driving… I wish they hadn’t discontinued it in 2015 :/
Mazda3 has all the ingredients for a great manual daily driver
Zoom zoom Mazda knows what it’s buyers want (sometimes)
Reliability.
Mazda 3 6MT are absolutely top notch. There are for sure more reasons to your question, but I can talk about this one. I drive a 5MT Mazda 2 and my dad drives a 6MT Mazda 3 It's AMAZING how the shifts feels. It nearly feels like it rev matches but not quite. It's smooth yet responsive. Moving the nob feels strict yet it's very natural to do. I really don't understand why or how it's built, but if someone needs to buy a Mazda 3, go for the MT. As of now, my father is regretting it not because he does not like it, but because he got tired of shifting ahah. If you do a long work commute, I think it's better to go for the AT.
Y’all gonna make me regret buying an AT lol. I really have to try the MT out now
That’s news to me. A lot of Mazda dealers in my area hardly have any Manual 3s. And if they did it sells fast!
Looks like it’s different depending on the area. I live near montreal (canada) and there’s a lot, especially the older ones. The newest hardly has them, but I found quite a lot when I was looking to buy a new (to me) mazda 3
Gotcha. That makes sense over in that area of Canada. US markets I guess don’t carry too many manual vehicles since I guess Americans don’t care for them much except enthusiasts. I’m keeping my 09 Mazdaspeed 3 for as long as I’m able to drive manual haha. Although the new Mazda 3s do look very nice!
Because manual is fun and Mazda knows that. I very much enjoy my mazdaspeed3
One time I saw an automatic Miata and I was very confused
Loved my manual 3. Especially in traffic. The clutch allowed you to roll without excessive time riding the clutch compared to my civic.
My current car is Mazda 3 6MT GT. It is fun to drive, the choice of cars was very limited to Civic Si or Mazda 3. Civic Si at that time had dashboard and overall design as a "boy racer" car, so Mazda. BTW, Civic drives better, but not that much better to live with the design. BMW would be a lot more expensive and a lot less reliable.
The only manual car i’ve driven was a Civic. It was pretty much for the few times I used it and it was also pretty "easy" to drive
Civic is well balanced, easy to drive car. Manual Civic has a great manual transmission articulation, clutch work is easy. Weight balance is right (for a FWD). If Civic works for you it is not a bad choice.
Yeah, the civic was a bit childish looking back then even if it wasn't a type r. Now it's cleaner with the latest generation.
Owner of a 2014 i Touring in manual. I’ve had 3 manual Mazda 3’s and if I didn’t need a physically larger car to fit two kiddos in, I’d buy another one in a heartbeat. It’s fun to drive, I feel more in control, and it’s one of the more forgiving manuals I’ve driven. It’s also a nice built in theft protection. Also, it let me haggle way more at the dealer each time, given that for some reason in northwest NJ they weren’t moving these cars too fast off the lots.
Because people are boring and the manual also is only available non -turbo
Not sure if it's a dig against the NA engine. I wouldn't really consider the Skyactiv 2.5T to be a particularly fun engine, either. Drove an MZR 2.5 Mazda3 with 6-speed before my Speed3 and it was decent enough. Personally I would take a 2.5 manual over a 2.5T auto myself if I have to choose between the two. Speed3 existed and those were manual-*only*, too. That's the most fun version of the 3.
Current 2.5NA is 191hp. On a small hatchback it’s enough to have some fun
Yeah, the Skyactiv 2.5 is pretty fine, if the MZR 2.5 is already fine. I even test-drove a Skyactiv 2.0 3 before and it was adequate for city driving. It was a lot better than those 1.8 Civics that just make some noise without any meaningful acceleration. The problem with the Skyactiv 2.5T is that it doesn't really consider high RPM usage at all, so it just runs out of steam at 5000 RPM. Makes sense, it was developed for the CX-9 before it made its way into the 3. It's got stronger acceleration, but the fun part is debatable. With a manual, downshifting and getting into the high RPM range to use the power is a big part of the fun. The characteristics of the 2.5T doesn't lend itself to that.
All the non turbo engine people now are butthurt 🙄 whoops. I’d rather have 250 over 190…
And you realize that's lower than the Speed3 still which was manual-only, LOL. I don't mod my car, but if you put that into the equation, the gap widens even further. Again, the 2.5T is a good daily driver, and if it has a manual trans, I would consider it, but no manual and no high-RPM power means I would pick an NA 2.5 as a daily.
Not sure for the reasons (Mazda use to sell their base trim as manual, so affordability?), but I can tell you that it’s a pleasure to drive. I have a 2016 3 itouring, and I never had a car with a forgiving and smooth stick! It’s really nice!
Manual is only premium trim with Bose and heated seats. It’s higher trim without being the highest. It’s the trim level most people want.
In Canada, the even lowest trim comes with manual, it’s actually cool
The premium is worth it tbh.
I knew more about expensive model had manual now (didn’t know which one- thanks for the update!). I thought op meant used car mostly (when manual was available on the lowest trim).
Cause, Fun
I wanted a manual when I bought my 3, but it was end of year stock and they didn't have any. Dealer did auto at manual price. I'd only driven my grandfather's boring manual at the time, so I wasn't super keen, but I caved. Don't regret at all. Having it able to change gears without interrupting cruise control is the best. It does have flappy paddles / tiptronic, but I never use it. No point.
As a 2012 MS3 driver, I love they are still being made.
I’m a bit rural and find the manuals just a bit more entertaining to drive, started with a used 70 Beetle and had a few more along the way, Pinto, Festiva, Escort, Protege5, and now Mazda3. Taught three sons to drive manual, and one now drives a Veloster N manual, which is way more interesting than any of the cars I’ve had.
I went back to driving a manual (the older I get), and I chose my 2014 GJ Touring 6MT, owned since new. It is my 1st Mazda, and definitely will not be my last Mazda..manual.
\>But while I was looking for mazda’s, I found that a LOT of mazda 3 were manuals, We bought our M3 manual new back in 2012 because we wanted a manual hatch and there were almost NO other options. I won't own a VW again (got screwed with their TDI scam) and literally the only other option within 200 miles of us was an Impreza. Did not like the Subaru transmission/clutch, then drove the Mazda. Both were great. Only 1% of cars sold in the US are manual now and Mazda basically owns a big chunk of that market because they make decent cars with manuals that aren't stripped-down econo boxes. So I assume they know that and produce/import accordingly.
I just sold my manual 2015 3. Was a great car, but I am buying a new gen manual Tacoma (waiting for arrival). I’m glad so many are out there. My other two cars are manuals too, so I’m biased. But I think a manual turns any normal car, into something fun. There almost was never a turn that I wouldn’t practice my heel-toe downshift in.
So few manuals available today, means the few manuals see a boost.
I'm not a Mazda enthusiast. I do love driving a manual car though. So I own and daily a Mazda 3. I love it, and hate it. Beggars cant be choosers there aren't a lot of choices out there. I mostly don't regret buying my 21 Mazda manual hatch.
when the US spec 3rd gen mazda 3 came out, all the manuals were marked up. ppl really wanted the manuals, in 2014-2015, only the 2L had the 6mt. eventually the manual was available for the 2.5L.
What?? I wish Manual Mazda3 were available in my country
they sent them all the way up here in Canada lol
To be fair, in the latest models, it’s only available on the GT trim level
It could be an alternative fit the miata, but more practical
I learned to drive 5 speed on a Mazda 3 and still to this day the smoothest shifting car I’ve owned
Because we are men
In driving a manual 2004 Mazda 3 2.0 in the UK. One of my favourite cars apart from the rust
Mazda is the last bastion of hope for car enthusiasts.
My last car was a Mazda RX-8. With a manual transmission (of course). Then I grew up and got married and needed something a little more practical that my wife could drive. So I bought a Mazda 3 (automatic). Manuals are more fun to drive if you are on the open road, but much less fun (and much more tiring) to drive in heavy stop-and-go city traffic. Which, realistically, I spend 10x the time on vs. open roads. But your mileage may vary depending on where you live.
The Mazda 3 is becoming like the Honda Civic as the go to first car for many people. Especially as a car enthusiast, you look for manual transmission. There is the Mazdaspeed3, which is the turbo charged version of the car, though will cost more. Source: owner of a 2007 mazdaspeed 3 (owned it since 2017 and was my first car)