Somewhat sporty, somewhat practical, and definitely affordable, the 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 s Sport Hatchback seats four and holds up to 44 cubic feet of cargo with the split-folding rear seats down. With the seats up, the cargo area is a roomy 17 cubic feet and comes with tie-downs and a cover. A net can be added. Side sills, body-colored front grille, and small rear roof spoiler add some flash to the budget compact hatchback.

Powered by a 2.3-liter, 156-hp DOHC inline four with variable valve timing, the s Sport hatch gets a so-so 22/29 mpg. A 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic are available transmissions. The front independent and multilink rear suspension has been tweaked to be stiffer, and owners praise the tight handling and small turning ratio of this front-wheel drive hatch. Equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels and all-season tires, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, and electronic brakeforce distribution, the 2008 MAZDA3 s Sport Hatchback feels responsive behind the wheel. Foglights, a tire monitor, and dual front airbags are standard. New for 2008 are side impact and side curtain bags. An auto-dimming rearview mirror is available.

Power windows, locks, and heated mirrors, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, a CD player with MP3 input, and leather trim dress up the interior of the 2008 MAZDA3 s Sport Hatchback. Intermittent front and rear wipers are added with the hatch. Other standard equipment includes a temperature display, tachometer, tilt and telescopic steering, and remote entry. The center console doubles as an armrest and contains a power outlet. Add-ons include a sunroof with wind deflector, 6-CD changer, satellite radio, and remote start.