GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda genuine or equivalent, consult manual for specific viscosity)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.0 in (4495 mm)
Width:
70.1 in (1780 mm)
Height:
57.1 in (1450 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.0 in (2640 mm)
Front Track:
60.4 in (1535 mm)
Rear Track:
60.0 in (1525 mm)
Ground Clearance:
5.9 in (150 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3168 lbs (1437 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4288 lbs (1945 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended
Cargo
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
15.7 cu ft
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
42.7 cu ft
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test:
5-Star
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
IIHS Side Impact:
Good
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (Standard)
Traction Control:
Standard
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with TCS (Traction Control System) - Standard
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Immobilizer:
Standard engine immobilizer system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with 6-disc CD changer, SiriusXM satellite radio (optional).
Display:
Multi-information display (MID) in instrument cluster, climate control display.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Remote keyless entry system.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Available (dealer-installed or option on some trims).
Usb Aux:
Available auxiliary audio input jack.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles under ideal conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 75,000 miles (platinum tipped).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000 miles or 48 months.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months or as needed based on inspection.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SM or ILSAC GF-4 or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.1 US quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent (pre-mixed 50/50 ethylene glycol-based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine ATF J or equivalent.
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and harshness.
Clutch Wear:
Some early models may experience accelerated clutch wear, particularly with aggressive driving.
Hpfp Issues:
High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failures have been reported in some DISI engines, though more prevalent in later generations.
Carbon Buildup:
Direct injection engines can be susceptible to intake valve carbon buildup, requiring periodic cleaning (e.g., walnut blasting).
Turbocharger Reliability:
While generally robust, turbocharger seals or wastegate issues can arise, often linked to maintenance or abuse.
Torque Steer:
Despite the TSRS, significant torque steer can still be present under hard acceleration; the manual details its operation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Performance Heritage:
Mazda's long history of building engaging and sporty driver's cars, exemplified by the MX-5 Miata and rotary-powered RX series.
Model Evolution
Mazda3 Performance Variant:
The Mazdaspeed3 was introduced as the high-performance variant of the Mazda3 compact car, focusing on turbocharged power and athletic handling.
1St Generation Introduction:
The first generation Mazdaspeed3 was launched for the 2007 model year and continued through 2009. The 2008 model year represents a refinement of this initial design.
Production
Assembly Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan
Production Years:
2007-2009 (First Generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Mazdaspeed3 was a frequent contender and recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list for its segment.
Motortrend Awards:
Received positive reviews and accolades from MotorTrend for its performance-oriented nature.
Ratings
Overall Performance Reviews:
Consistently praised for its powerful engine, agile handling, and practical hatchback design.
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