More than 15 years have passed since the release of the first version of Mazda 3. Since then, the company has released three generations of the model, each of which has become popular. Drivers appreciate this car for its attractive external design, good driving performance, and a high level of safety for all systems. One of the most important indicators is the ground clearance on the Mazda 3. Thanks to it, the car can overcome various obstacles and even drive off-road.
Model description
Even before the appearance of the production model, the company developed the proprietary concept “Mazda MX Sportif”. It was demonstrated at the Geneva auto show in 2003. This development served as the basis for the creation of a new model called Mazda 3. In the photo, the crossover corresponds to the corporate style of the auto corporation, which was later applied in other cars, for example, in the Mazda 6. The third model of the Japanese company replaced its predecessor with the index 323 and was a Golf-class car.
Body parameters
Motorists are offered two body types to choose from: a five-door hatchback and a sedan with 4 doors. Dimensions: 1450x4585x1795 (height, length, width). The exterior design of the body is made in a sporty, aggressive style. This effect is further enhanced by the proprietary head optics and the sloping roof line of the Mazda 3. The photos presented on the company's website show that during the development of the design the company used the basic concept of "MAIDAS". The system assumes that after a collision, energy is absorbed and distributed. Thanks to this, passengers in the car will be safe.
The hatchback was the first to roll off the assembly line; about a year later, the company's engineers developed a four-door sedan. When comparing these versions, it becomes clear that the hatchback has a sportier look, while the sedan's design has more formal features. The C1 platform is named one of the most reliable. It was used in the development of the Ford Focus 2, as well as to create other models from the Japanese company.
Clearance
During the creation of different generations of Mazda 3, the developers repeatedly experimented with the clearance height. This indicator is measured from the center of the body to the road surface. According to technical specifications, ground clearance for the Mazda 3 in the first generations was up to 165 mm on sedans and hatchbacks. This distance is enough for the car to freely travel on any type of road, including on unpaved surfaces. In addition, you need to take these parameters into account when parking near curbs in the Mazda 3.
You can increase the ground clearance if you plan to travel with a loaded car. Please note that this figure may become lower. The curb weight of the vehicle is 1145-1170 kg, so additional cargo should not be heavier than 450 kg. The ground clearance on subsequent generations became slightly smaller. Depending on the body type, it was 150-160 mm. But this did not affect the dynamic qualities of the car in any way. The foreign car, as before, received good reviews from car enthusiasts.
If you are not satisfied with the clearance height, then you can change this indicator up or down, decrease or increase the Mazda 3 ground clearance. When you want to increase the ground clearance, special spacers are placed under the shock absorbers. It must be taken into account that after raising the body, maneuverability and stability at high speed will become worse.
In some cases, it is necessary not to increase the clearance of the Mazda 3, but to reduce it. Then the shock absorbers supplied by the manufacturer are replaced with devices that are offered in specialized auto stores. They sell various tuning parts there. Despite the fact that the car's landing position is becoming smaller, handling will still please drivers who prefer the Mazda 3's low ground clearance.
Specifications
One of the main advantages of this car is that it has a reliable chassis. The suspension is a reliable McPherson design, which is used on many other models. The front part is mounted on a subframe, while the rear part has a multi-link system.
The chassis of the Mazda 3 of all generations has a long service life. However, it is necessary to carry out diagnostics after a mileage of more than 20,000 km. The following work to check the mechanisms is carried out after the car has driven the same distance. For drivers who regularly travel off-road, it is recommended to perform diagnostic procedures even more often to prevent sudden breakdown of the chassis system.
If you have special tools and conditions, you can perform steps to repair the “walker” yourself. It is easy to replace the following elements:
- gaskets;
- anthers;
- silent blocks;
- anti-roll bars;
- rubber bands
You can also replace the bearings yourself, you just need to first study the relevant information or consult with a car mechanic so as not to completely redo the entire job.
Innovations
The second and third generations of Mazda 3 were equipped with the latest features. The system is called "i-ACTIVSENSE". This includes the following innovations:
- radar and navigation equipment;
- signal about crossing into the wrong lane;
- automatic switching on of headlights with high beam;
- display located on the windshield;
- blind spot induction.
The high beam headlights turn on automatically if the on-board computer detects the presence of an oncoming car at a certain distance. This is a very important function that increases traffic safety. This list also includes a special warning system that there is an obstacle in the path of the vehicle. If the driver does not respond to the warning, the brake is applied and the car stops.
Engine
The line of engines that were installed on the Mazda 3 deserves special attention. Engines are available for car enthusiasts to choose from. They have different volumes and can run on both gasoline and diesel fuel.
The power unit, which was on the first version, had a performance of 105 hp. and belonged to the MZR type. It was equipped with a stepwise phase change function, which is responsible for the operation of the intake valves. The system promotes more efficient engine operation in any mode.
Motorists can purchase a model with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. It is given the name "SKYACTIV-G". The power plant has a displacement of 1.5 and a power of 99 hp. Despite the low power compared to other engines from the same manufacturer, a car with such an engine reaches speeds of up to 183 km/h. It accelerates to 100 km/h in just 11.9 seconds.
Another option, presented on the Russian car market, is an engine of the same type with a performance of 120 hp. With. It boasts a volume of up to 2000 cubic centimeters. Acceleration to hundreds of kilometers from a standstill takes 9.2 seconds. Both installations are economical. In highway driving mode it will be 4.9-6l/100 km.
Another representative of the engine line is a diesel version with a volume of 2.2 liters. It is fully made according to the Euro-6 standard, which indicates reliability. The power of the device is 150 horsepower. It is capable of accelerating to a maximum of 210 km/h. Other advantages of this engine include even greater fuel economy with such power. On average it is 6.8 liters. If the driver drives more often on major roads, then consumption decreases by 20%.
Transmission
The gearboxes were specially selected to match the developed engines. Models of the latest generations were equipped with both automatic and mechanical types. The first option has four speed switching modes. The automatic machine was called “Actievematic” for its sporty character.
The manual transmission has 5 stages of operation. It is distinguished by the ease of switching speeds, which the designers were able to achieve by reducing friction losses by half.
Brakes
Systems that increase driving reliability also include the braking system of the new Mazda 3. The vehicle's ground clearance allows the installation of modern brake units that meet international standards. The front part has ventilated discs, while the manufacturer equips the rear unit with simple mechanisms that are also highly reliable.
This contains information about the ground clearance of the Mazda3. Official information and reviews from real owners of this car have been published.
You can also express your opinion by writing it in the comment form located at the bottom of the page.
Reviews from Mazda 3 owners (found on the Internet)
- For me, the clearance is normal; if it were larger, it would affect the dynamics. I drive through a police station when it's fully loaded and don't catch anything. It is worth noting that the car is still new - the mileage is only 400 km, but conclusions can still be drawn. We'll see in winter.
- It seems normal, I don’t know exactly how much I have, but obviously at least one hundred and fifty
- The clearance is simply terrible. There are four garages and I can’t go into any of them normally.
- There is also a Focus and a Mazda 3. The Focus is clearly higher in clearance.
- I somehow pass speed bumps. A bit low for me.
- I have a Mazda in a new body. My colleague has an old body. We put 2 cars side by side, the result: the ground clearance of the old one is 1-2 cm less.
- The clearance is normal, even in the village every day I drive carefully everywhere. Over the course of 3,500 km, I got caught once, and then in the courtyards on a curb.
- I drove 4000. I’ve already sat on my belly in the yard several times!
- Previously, on the old one with conventional protection, the bottom caught everything. Now I have installed protection made of a carbon polymer alloy on the new one. I've only hit it a couple of times so far. (already 9000 km)
- 15 cm is quite normal, three years ago I had a three-wheeler, it seemed to sit high, it stuck on the country roads less often than the Muscovite...
- And last week we had a lot of snow, so I shoveled the snow with my front bumper like a bulldozer. I don’t go into courtyards at all. So the nesting doll is a summer version of the car. We need to think about what to take for the winter now.
More than 15 years have passed since the release of the first version of Mazda 3. Since then, the company has released three generations of the model, each of which has become popular. Drivers appreciate this car for its attractive external design, good driving performance, and a high level of safety for all systems. One of the most important indicators is the ground clearance on the Mazda 3. Thanks to it, the car can overcome various obstacles and even drive off-road.
Model description
Even before the appearance of the production model, the company developed the proprietary concept “Mazda MX Sportif”. It was demonstrated at the Geneva auto show in 2003. This development served as the basis for the creation of a new model called Mazda 3. In the photo, the crossover corresponds to the corporate style of the auto corporation, which was later applied in other cars, for example, in the Mazda 6. The third model of the Japanese company replaced its predecessor with the index 323 and was a Golf-class car.
Vehicle clearance is the distance between its lowest point and the road surface on which the vehicle is traveling. When choosing a car for various conditions of its use, this parameter is important. The Mazda 3 is designed for driving in urban environments and on good roads. Then all the positive advantages of this model are fully felt. If you need an SUV, choose an SUV, simple rule.
The ground clearance of the Mazda 3 has always been small. The manufacturer's data says that it is 155 cm, but when measuring the latest basic model, it turns out to be 140 cm. In order not to sit on the “belly”, you need to choose a car for the current tasks. When using speed bumps in our cities, the choice of car becomes very important. How to make the right choice? What should you pay attention to?
Once again about clearance
If you know everything about the ground clearance of your car, this will help you visit the auto repair shop less often. This saves money and saves nerves. Do not run into oncoming obstacles, go around them, this is also taught in driving school. The clearance is measured in the inspection pit using a simple ruler. You can also use a laser meter, but this is a waste of money.
Choose a car for the purposes for which it will be used. The modern automotive market provides models for use in any conditions. You just need to make the right decision. Why buy a KAMAZ for commuting to work in a metropolis and what is the ground clearance of the Mazda 3? What does the ground clearance of a car affect:
- Passability of a vehicle. The higher the ground clearance, the greater the vehicle's cross-country ability;
- Car controllability. The lower the ground clearance, the better the car handles;
- Stability on the road. The higher the ground clearance, the greater the possibility of the vehicle overturning on the road during high-speed travel.
The problem of ground clearance is probably only paid attention to in our country. The quality of Russian roads has an impact. Next, let's look at the changes over the years.
Ground clearance values for different generations of Mazda 3
Generations in the line of different cars are similar to the succession of generations in people's families. Everything is based on the positive data of the previous generation, and negative traits are excluded at the birth of a new one. So it is with the car models of the Japanese automobile industry, Mazda 3. What was the ground clearance of the third Mazda in the progress of versions? Ground clearance by year:
- Mazda 2008 - 155 mm;
- year - 155 mm
- — 155 mm;
- Let's check the ground clearance of the Mazda 3 2013 - 155 mm;
- and Mazda 3 2014 - 155 mm.
Nothing has changed regarding the design features of the latest models. The stability of the Mazda 3 hatchback and sedan ground clearance is a sign of the craftsmanship and classics of the Japanese automotive industry. Its value is 155 mm, ground clearance has not changed over time. The latest models are equipped with a Mazda 3 ride height sensor - this is a good help for drivers.
Ways to increase clearance
There are pros and cons to the procedure for increasing ground clearance in Mazda 3 cars, as in other sedans in this class. Basically, drivers in our country decide to experiment like this. How to increase ground clearance on Mazda 3?
- rubber gaskets are installed between the body and the car’s suspension springs (spacers for increasing the ground clearance of Mazda 3);
- the size of the used wheel rims increases;
- high profile tires are selected;
- Stiffer springs are used to reduce compression and the load on the suspension, which will increase ground clearance.
All these actions will increase the car's ground clearance and allow you to drive on bad roads, but there are negative aspects to such vehicle tuning.
The Downside of Increasing Factory Ground Clearance
The fact is that increasing the ground clearance by changing the design features of the Mazda 3 has many negative consequences for the operation of the car. What are they?
- reducing the vehicle's directional stability during maneuvers;
- car controllability decreases on roads with any surface;
- weakening of the power body of the machine;
- reduction in speed characteristics;
- failure of the car’s aerodynamic performance;
- an increase in chassis breakdowns caused by changes in physical activity.
This is a small tip of the iceberg of problems caused by the decision to increase the ground clearance of your Mazda 3. Any constructive intervention in the car must be calculated and verified by engineering solutions, and calculations of the likely consequences of your actions. You can’t rely on your desires to upgrade your car the way you want. Buy a vehicle for the operating conditions in which it will be used. The Mazda 3 sedan is designed for comfortable use in city conditions, modern highways and expressways. The model of the Mazda concern in question, the third series, compares favorably with its competitors in the class of the same cars. It can rightfully be called a classic in the segment of cars from this line of competitive manufacturers.
The premieres of the new Mazda 3, based on continental body preferences, took place strictly within the framework of the rules of marketing science.
Search for an official dealer by map.
The salons can be distinguished solely by the logo on the steering wheel.
While reviewing the Mazda3 model year, you notice that in the front part of the car the bumper seems to combine a false radiator grille and a front aerodynamic element.
While reviewing the Mazda3 model year, you notice that in the front part of the car the bumper seems to combine a false radiator grille and a front aerodynamic element. The front fairing also boasts side air duct slots with foglights integrated into it.
In profile, a review of the Mazda 3 shows the swift lines of the sidewalls, gently flowing towards the rear of the roof; they personify the dynamics and sporty orientation of the car from Mazda. The rear of the second generation of the troika, having absorbed the best features of the rear of its predecessor, acquired a more solid appearance. Lighting technology in family tradition echoes the older Mazda 6.
Mazda 3 increasing ground clearance!
Dimensions and ground clearance Having survived the reincarnation, the new Mazda Troika retained its familiar features, becoming more harmonious. Increased in length, the increase was mm depending on the body while maintaining the size of the base. Dimensions of Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback - length mm, width - mm, height - mm, wheelbase - mm.
Speaking about the dimensions, it is important to note what the ground clearance of the updated Mazda 3 is - mm. Ergonomics and interior trim Instruments in two separate wells, soft plastic front dashboard, massive central tunnel with successful control ergonomics. The interior of the second generation Mazda 3 has a multifunctional, grippy steering wheel, comfortable front seats with characteristic lateral support.
Answers (1)
Driver and passenger seats with an extended cushion and a wide range of adjustments, optionally with electric drive. The first row is comfortable and convenient, which cannot be said about the seats in the second row. There is still a lack of legroom in the rear; only two people can fit comfortably. The interior of the Mazda 3 evokes the idea that the interior decoration of modern cars is similar.
It seems to be well made and beautiful, but boring.
Luggage compartment in sedan and hatchback The trunk of the Mazda 3 sedan offers its owners a loading volume of liters. The trunk of the Mazda 3 hatchback has a volume of liters; with the rear seats folded down, loading possibilities increase significantly.
Reviews from Mazda 3 owners (found on the Internet)
Technical characteristics The chassis of the updated Mazda 3 has been migrated from its predecessor, with independent suspension at the front and rear. The front suspension of the troika is with MacPherson struts, the rear suspension is multi-link.
On the Russian market, Mazda 3 is offered only with gasoline engines: This design applies not only to the Mazda 3, but also to the two and three. Mazda 3 ground clearance If you review the car, you will notice that the front bumper is a unifying element; it connects the front aerodynamic elements and the radiator grille.
The central air intake carries not only an aesthetic load, but also a practical one. It is necessary in order to control air flows and direct them in such a way that the engine is cooled at an effective level.
In the side slots of the air duct, there are built-in fog lights located in the front fairing. The front lighting equipment is located between the hood and the front wheel arches, which is also the watershed.
If you look at the profile of the car, you can see sweeping lines on the side that gently flow towards the rear of the Mazda 3, which personifies the car's sporty direction and dynamics.
The increase in length is one of the changes in the model. The car has become longer from 45 to 90 mm, the length of the car depends solely on the type of body. The length of the Mazda 3 is mm if it is a sedan, and mm if it is a hatchback. Car width - height, Mazda base mm. When discussing the dimensions of the car, it is necessary to say what the Mazda 3’s ground clearance is.
Actually standard - mm. Which is typical in these cars.
Mazda 3 2008, 105 l. With. - observation
The front seats have a fairly wide range of adjustment possibilities. Unlike the front seats, we note that passengers who use the seats in the second row are unlikely to feel quite comfortable. There is still a shortage of space; no more than two people can comfortably accommodate.
Like all cars of this model range, they have a high-quality interior, everything is beautiful, but rather meager and boring. The salons can be distinguished solely by the logo on the steering wheel.
