Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring. This car isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about enjoying the ride. We'll cover everything from its sleek design and impressive performance to its luxurious features and tech-savvy interior. So, buckle up and let's explore what makes this car a standout in its class!

The 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring stands out as a compelling option in the compact car segment, blending sporty handling with a premium feel. This model year marked a significant update for the Mazda 3, incorporating subtle yet effective changes to its exterior and interior design, along with enhancements to its technology and safety features. The “Sport” designation indicates the hatchback body style, which offers increased cargo versatility compared to the sedan version. The “Grand Touring” trim sits at the top of the Mazda 3 lineup, offering a generous array of standard features and upscale materials that elevate the driving experience. From its responsive engine and nimble handling to its refined interior and comprehensive safety suite, the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring caters to drivers seeking a well-rounded and engaging vehicle. Its combination of practicality, performance, and premium amenities makes it a strong contender against competitors like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Golf. For those prioritizing driving pleasure and a touch of luxury in a compact package, the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring is definitely worth considering.

Exterior Design

The exterior of the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring is where Mazda's KODO “Soul of Motion” design language truly shines. The car boasts a sleek, athletic stance with flowing lines and a distinctive front fascia. The signature Mazda grille, with its chrome surround, is more pronounced, giving the car a bolder and more premium look. The adaptive LED headlights not only provide excellent visibility but also add a touch of sophistication. The Sport trim, being a hatchback, offers a dynamic profile with a sloping roofline that enhances its sporty appeal. The rear of the car features stylish LED taillights and a subtle spoiler, contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency and overall aesthetic.

Moving on to the details, the 18-inch alloy wheels are a standout feature, complementing the car's sporty character. These wheels are exclusively available on the Grand Touring trim, adding to its upscale appearance. Chrome accents on the door handles and window trim further enhance the premium feel. The available exterior colors, such as Soul Red Metallic and Machine Gray Metallic, accentuate the car's curves and lines, making it a head-turner on the road. The design isn't just about aesthetics; it's also functional. The aerodynamic shape helps reduce wind resistance, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wind noise at higher speeds. Overall, the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring's exterior is a testament to Mazda's commitment to creating visually appealing and dynamically styled vehicles. The attention to detail and the harmonious blend of sporty and elegant elements make it a standout in the compact car segment. Whether you're cruising through the city or parked at your favorite spot, this car is sure to make a statement with its refined and athletic design.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring, you're greeted with a cabin that exudes quality and sophistication. The interior is thoughtfully designed with premium materials and attention to detail, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The leather-trimmed seats are not only supportive but also add a touch of luxury, making long drives a pleasure. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all controls within easy reach. The 7-inch touchscreen display, mounted atop the dashboard, is the centerpiece of the infotainment system, providing access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.

Speaking of features, the Grand Touring trim is loaded with them. Standard equipment includes a premium Bose sound system with nine speakers, delivering crisp and clear audio throughout the cabin. The dual-zone automatic climate control ensures that both the driver and passenger can set their preferred temperature. The heated front seats are a welcome addition, especially during colder months. Other notable features include a power-adjustable driver's seat with memory function, a sunroof, and a rearview camera. The infotainment system is equipped with Mazda Connect, which offers smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps, make calls, and send messages hands-free. The navigation system is accurate and easy to use, providing turn-by-turn directions to your destination. The advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control, enhance the driving experience and provide added peace of mind. The 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring's interior is a testament to Mazda's commitment to creating a comfortable, convenient, and connected driving environment. The combination of premium materials, advanced technology, and thoughtful design makes it a standout in its class, offering a truly enjoyable and refined driving experience.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring packs a punch with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a robust 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, which offers quick and precise gear changes. The car also comes with a sport mode, which sharpens the throttle response and holds gears longer for a more engaging driving experience.

One of the standout features of the Mazda 3 is its exceptional handling. The car feels nimble and responsive, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and precise steering. The G-Vectoring Control system enhances the car's stability and cornering ability by subtly adjusting engine torque in response to steering inputs. This technology helps to reduce driver fatigue and improve overall driving confidence. The ride quality is also commendable, striking a good balance between comfort and sportiness. The car absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling harsh or jarring. The brakes are strong and provide confident stopping power. Fuel economy is another area where the Mazda 3 excels, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. This makes it a practical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. Overall, the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring offers a compelling blend of performance, handling, and fuel efficiency, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. Whether you're navigating twisty back roads or cruising on the highway, this car delivers a refined and engaging driving experience that sets it apart from its competitors. The combination of a powerful engine, precise handling, and advanced technology makes it a top choice for drivers who value performance and driving pleasure.

Technology and Safety

The 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring doesn't skimp on technology and safety features. The car is equipped with a suite of advanced technologies designed to enhance the driving experience and provide added peace of mind. The 7-inch touchscreen display is the hub of the infotainment system, offering access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. The Mazda Connect system provides smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The voice command system is intuitive and responsive, allowing you to control various functions without taking your hands off the wheel.

In terms of safety, the Mazda 3 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you when a vehicle is in your blind spot, while the rear cross-traffic alert system warns you of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space. The adaptive cruise control system maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe following distance. The lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while the lane keep assist system gently steers you back into your lane. The smart city brake support system can automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate a collision. The rearview camera provides a clear view of the area behind the car, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring is packed with technology and safety features that enhance the driving experience and provide added peace of mind. The combination of advanced infotainment features and comprehensive safety technologies makes it a standout in its class, offering a safe, connected, and enjoyable driving experience.

Overall Thoughts

So, what's the final verdict on the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring? This car is a winner in many aspects. It combines a stylish exterior with a well-appointed interior, offering a premium feel without the premium price tag. The performance is engaging, with a responsive engine and nimble handling that makes driving a joy. The technology and safety features are comprehensive, providing added convenience and peace of mind.

If you're in the market for a compact car that offers a blend of sportiness, luxury, and practicality, the 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring is definitely worth considering. It's a car that's fun to drive, comfortable to ride in, and packed with features that make everyday driving a pleasure. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a road trip, this car is up to the task. The 2017 Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring stands out as a well-rounded and compelling choice in the compact car segment. Its combination of style, performance, features, and value make it a top contender against its competitors. If you're looking for a car that's more than just transportation, the Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring might just be the perfect fit for you.