Fun to drive and packed with plenty of bells and whistles, the 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 s Grand Touring is not your typical compact budget sedan. With a 2.3-liter, DOHC inline four with variable valve timing and 5-speed manual (or optional 5-speed automatic), the front-wheel drive s Grand Touring delivers 156 hp and 150 ft-lbs of torque. Like the Touring, it uses 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, dual front-side and side curtain airbags, traction and stability control, a tire monitor, and foglights. But it adds xenon headlamps, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. With this equipment, the 2008 MAZDA3 s Grand Touring rates highly in crash tests.

There's a lot more standard luxury as well, including heated front seats and leather upholstery. The s Grand Touring also features a trip computer, along with the tachometer and temperature display on the dash. The sport seats keep front passengers snug. Full power features, remote entry, a security system, wheel-mounted cruise control and audio controls for the 6-speaker CD player, an MP3 input, two power outlets in the center console, front and rear cupholders, tilt and telescopic steering, and leather trim complete the package. On the outside, side sills and a sport bumper help define the sporty profile of the 2008 MAZDA3 s Grand Touring, and a rear spoiler and front air dam can be added. A 6-CD changer and satellite radio are optional, and the Grand Touring can also be outfitted with a navigation system. Remote start, a sunroof, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are other extras.