The 2023 Mazda 3 Premium Plus is not your average compact car. It boasts a range of unexpected luxury characteristics that make it a standout option for young drivers, particularly teens in high school and college-age students. From its all-wheel-drive system to its passive safety features and unconventional design, the Mazda 3 Premium Plus offers practicality, responsiveness, and style. Let's delve into the features that make this hatchback an excellent choice for young drivers.
All-Wheel Drive: Unleashing the Power, Taming the Terrain
The 2023 Mazda 3 Premium Plus comes equipped with an advanced All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. While AWD is often associated with SUVs, having it in a compact car like the Mazda 3 offers distinct advantages for young drivers. With AWD, the Mazda 3 provides enhanced traction and stability on various road conditions, ensuring a safer driving experience even in adverse weather. Whether navigating slippery roads or venturing off the beaten path for outdoor adventures, the Mazda 3's AWD system empowers young drivers with confidence and control.
Passive Safety Features: Protecting What Matters Most
Safety is paramount, especially for young drivers. The 2023 Mazda 3 Premium Plus prioritizes safety with various passive safety features. From the 4-wheel disc brakes and G-Vectoring Control Plus to the comprehensive airbag system and Smart Brake Support, Mazda has integrated advanced safety technologies to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring add an extra layer of safety, helping young drivers stay attentive and aware of their surroundings. The Mazda 3 Premium Plus is engineered to prioritize the well-being of its occupants, instilling peace of mind for parents and young drivers alike.
The Mazda 3 Premium Plus goes above and beyond to provide a luxurious feel through its convenient features. The 360-degree view monitor enhances parking and maneuvering in tight spaces, giving drivers a complete view of their surroundings. The Traffic Jam Assist feature takes the stress out of heavy traffic situations, automatically adjusting speed and maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Another convenient feature is the auto-dimming driver-side mirror, which reduces glare from headlights behind, ensuring clear visibility at all times. Inside the cabin, the Mazda 3 Premium Plus indulges drivers with a power driver seat, power lumbar support, and memory function, allowing for personalized comfort. The heated front seats and steering wheel offer warmth during colder seasons, making every journey cozy. With Mazda's advanced keyless entry, push-button engine start, electronic parking brake, and leather-wrapped steering wheel, the Mazda 3 Premium Plus exudes convenience and luxury in every aspect.
The 2023 Mazda 3 Premium Plus embraces the latest in-car technology, including Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ integration. These features allow drivers to connect their compatible smartphones seamlessly to the vehicle's infotainment system. With Android Auto™ or Apple CarPlay™, users can access their favorite apps, make hands-free calls, send text messages, and stream music, all through the familiar interface of their smartphone. This integration ensures a safe and convenient driving experience, as drivers can keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while still accessing important features of their smartphones. Additionally, the Mazda 3 Premium Plus offers SiriusXM® 3-month trial subscription, HD Radio®, and two USB inputs, providing a wide range of entertainment options. Bluetooth® hands-free phone/audio further enhances convenience, allowing drivers to make calls and stream music wirelessly. The technological advancements of the Mazda 3 Premium Plus elevate the driving experience, keeping drivers easily connected and entertained.
Responsive Engine and Transmission: A Dynamic Driving Experience
The Mazda 3 Premium Plus is powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.5L DOC Turbo Engine, delivering an impressive 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Paired with the SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6-speed Sport Mode automatic transmission, this hatchback offers a thrilling and engaging driving experience. The responsive engine ensures quick acceleration, making merging onto highways or overtaking other vehicles effortlessly. The transmission's Sport Mode allows young drivers to unleash the Mazda 3's full potential, providing a spirited drive when desired. The combination of power and agility enables young drivers to enjoy the road while maintaining control and fuel efficiency.
While hybrid and electric vehicles have gained popularity for fuel efficiency, the 2023 Mazda 3 Premium Plus proves that traditional gasoline-powered cars can still offer a viable option. With its impressive fuel economy of 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway, it achieves a combined rating of 26 MPG. This means that young drivers can enjoy the practicality and luxury of the Mazda 3 Premium Plus while minimizing their environmental impact and saving money at the pump. Its fuel efficiency is a testament to Mazda's commitment to engineering cars that balance performance and sustainability without compromising on style or driving experience.
Unconventional Design: Form Meets Function
The 2023 Mazda 3 Premium Plus features an unconventional design with a low-slung roofline on its 5-door hatchback body. Beyond aesthetics, this design choice enhances aerodynamics, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wind noise. Young drivers will appreciate the sleek and sporty appearance of the Mazda 3, which stands out from traditional hatchbacks. The attention to detail is evident in the LED headlights, taillights, black alloy wheels, and black front grille, all contributing to a sophisticated and eye-catching exterior.
Pricing: Total MSRP as tested $37,095.00
While the price of the 2023 Mazda 3 Premium Plus may appear steep for a teenager, it's important to consider the intended audience: families capable of purchasing a new vehicle for their children. Moreover, considering the average price for a new car in 2023, which stands at $48,008 as of March 2023, the Mazda 3 Premium Plus presents itself as a more affordable option while still offering an array of luxurious features. Families seeking to provide their children with a safe and reliable vehicle will find the Mazda 3 Premium Plus to be a well-rounded choice that balances performance, safety, and style without breaking the bank.
Total MSRP as tested $37,095.00