Mazda MAZDA3

When your advertising campaign promises ZOOM ZOOM, you'd better deliver. And Mazda did just that with its MAZDA3 compact sedans and hatchbacks, which were introduced in 2004 as a successor to the Protege. Right out of the gate, the MAZDA3 was popular with drivers, not only for its sporty styling and peppy performance, but also for its extensive list of standard features. In short, drivers considered the MAZDA3 to be a good value.

Throughout its run, the MAZDA was available in both i and s trim packages. The i Models were the entry-level versions, which were powered by a 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine. A five-speed manual overdrive transmission was standard, while a four-speed automatic was available as an option. Standard features included air conditioning, dual airbags, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, a lighted entry system, and a CD player.

The s Models kicked up the power a bit with a 160-horsepower, 2.3-liter four cyclinder engine. Standard features were also bumped up a notch, and included power windows, power door locks, power outside mirrors, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, sport seats, alloy wheels, and cruise control.

In 2006, Mazda added variable valve timing to its engines, which improved torque and power output a bit. In addition, upscale Grand Touring trim packages, with leather seats and a trip computer, among other features, were added to the lineup. And in 2007, Mazda kicked up the power even more by introducing the MAZDASPEED3, a 263-horsepower, turbocharged four-cylinder vehicle with such features as front-end floating fog lamps, 18-inch wheels, black interior upholstery with red stitching, a firmer suspension, and more muscular, more aerodynamic styling.