At a time when SUVs “invade” the market and even vans are fighting for their space, Mazda is betting on the most classic of types with the Mazda3 CS , a sedan, the more familiar or even “executive” alternative to the Mazda3 hatchback.
Despite having a completely identical front to the hatchback version, the Mazda3 CS is not just a version with a “long rear”, being notorious the differences in the way the sides were designed, not sharing any (side) panel with the hatchback of bodywork.
According to Mazda, “The hatchback and sedan have distinct personalities — the hatchback design is dynamic, the sedan is elegant,” and the truth is, I have to agree with the Hiroshima brand.
Although I appreciate the more dynamic styling of the hatchback variant, I can't help but praise the more sober appearance of the Mazda3 CS that makes it an option to consider for those looking for a more traditionally shaped model.
Inside the Mazda3 CS
As for the interior of the Mazda3 CS, I keep everything I said when I tested the hatchback variant with a diesel engine and automatic transmission. Sober, well built, with good materials (pleasant to the touch and to the eye) and ergonomically well thought out, the interior of this new generation Mazda3 is one of the most pleasant to be in the segment.
The fact that the infotainment system's screen is not tactile forces you to make a "reset" to the habits gained in recent years, but quickly the controls on the steering wheel and the rotary command between the seats prove to be great allies for navigating the menus.
The infotainment system is complete and easy to use.
While there are no major differences between the hatchback and the sedan in terms of passenger room rates, the same is not true of the luggage compartment. Not having a van in its range, Mazda3 has in this CS version the most suitable version for family use, offering 450 liters of capacity (the hatchback stays at 358 liters).
At the wheel of the Mazda3 CS
As with the hatchback, the Mazda3 CS also makes it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Where this CS variant differs from the five-door variant is in terms of rear visibility, which turned out to be much better, the only regret being the absence of a wiper blade (as usual on four-door models).
The driving position is comfortable and pleasantly low.
Already in progress, the 2.0 Skyactiv-G engine is characterized by being smooth and linear to increase in rotation (or was it not an atmospheric engine) taking the tachymeter to areas where, normally, turbo engines do not usually go. All this while presenting us with a surprisingly pleasant sound in the highest regimes.
As for the benefits, the 122 hp and 213 Nm debited by the 2.0 Skyactiv-G do not give rise to big rushes, but they do. Even so, equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, the preference for calmer rhythms is notorious.
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The justification lies in the staggering of the box, something long; and in its quick change of relationship, not fast enough, when we decided to print a higher rhythm — luckily at those times we can resort to manual mode.
On the other hand, it is the consumptions that benefit from the long staging, having managed to register an average between 6.5 and 7 l/100 km.
Finally, dynamically the Mazda3 CS deserves the same praise as the hatchback variant. With a suspension setting leaning towards firm (but never uncomfortable), direct and precise steering, and a balanced chassis, the Mazda3 asks them to take it to the corners, being on par with the Honda Civic, another dynamic reference of the segment.
Is the car right for me?
If you're a fan of the Mazda3 hatchback's qualities but can't decide on its original rear volume or simply need a bigger trunk, the Mazda3 CS may well be the right choice for you. The style is more sober (and even executive-worthy) and elegant — I have to admit I'm a fan.
Comfortable, well built, well equipped and dynamically quite competent (even somewhat stimulating), the Mazda3 CS has the 2.0 Skyactiv-G engine as a good companion for traveling at moderate paces. If you are looking for higher performance, you can always opt for the 180 hp Skyactiv-X, which even manages consumption as good or better than the 122 hp Skyactiv-G.
In the end, what this Mazda3 CS does best is to remind us that there are proposals suitable for those looking for a little more space without having to opt for an SUV or a van.