First Drive: 2010 Mazda3 - More grins, inside and out
Automakers have to walk a thin line when updating a sales success or perennial favorite. It’s even worse when the outgoing model embodies both traits. The “evolution not revolution” line gets tossed around the engineering and design centers with the hope the two teams can build off the current model’s strengths while simultaneously delivering the upgraded content consumers expect. The 2010 Mazda3 proves it can be done.
With nearly one-third of all Mazdas sold with a 3 appended to the rear, the 2010 model had to continue to meet and exceed expectations in its class, something that’s difficult to do when battling it out for compact supremacy among Toyota Corollas and Honda Civics. Thankfully, the features that made the original Mazda3 the leader in its segment - an expressive exterior, well-appointed interior and surprisingly engaging driving dynamics - not only carry over for 2010, but have been improved across the board. After a day of driving, the new 3 wasn’t the only one wearing a grin. And oh, what a grin it is.