For those needing a bit more space than the sedan provides, the 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 s Touring Hatchback boosts cargo space from 11 to 17 cubic feet, which expands to 44 cubic feet with both rear seats folded down. With an emphasis on the driving experience, the s Touring adds a lot of nice safety features to the MAZDA3 s hatchback line. It starts with a 2.3-liter, 156-hp DOHC inline-four engine and 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Resting on 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, the 2008 MAZDA3 s Touring adds traction and stability control and this year gets side impact and curtain airbags to join the dual front airbags. Other safety features include 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, foglights, and a tire monitor. An auto-dimming rearview mirror and compass are optional.

A small rear roof spoiler, side sills, and body-colored front grille add a sleeker look to the front-wheel drive economy hatchback. The cargo area comes standard with tie-downs and a cover, and a net can be added. Inside, the 2008 MAZDA3 s Touring Hatchback is much like the Sport, with full power features, power heated mirrors, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, a 6-speaker CD player with MP3 input jack, intermittent front and rear wipers, leather trim on the wheel and shifter, tilt and telescopic steering, a remote trunk release, temperature display, and front and rear cupholders. Leather seats are optional, along with satellite radio, a 6-CD changer, a sunroof and wind deflector, and remote start. Drivers like the 22/29 fuel economy, tight turning radius, and sporty feel, but say the MAZDA3 is noisy.