Model Year | 2010 | 2012 | |
Model | Mazda Mazda3 | Ford Flex | |
Engine | turbocharged 2.3L I4 DOHC-4v 263 hp@5500 280 lb-ft@3000 |
turbocharged 3.5L V6 DOHC-4v 355 hp@5500 350 lb-ft@1500 |
|
Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic | |
Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | |
Body | 4dr Hatch | 4dr SUV | |
Difference | |||
Wheelbase | 103.9 in | 117.9 in | -14 in |
Length | 177.4 in | 202.3 in | -24.9 in |
Width | 69.1 in | 75.9 in | -6.8 in |
Height | 57.9 in | 67.6 in | -9.7 in |
Curb Weight | 3221 lb. | 4839 lb. | -1618 lb. |
Fuel Capacity | 15.9 gal. | 19.2 gal. | -3.3 gal. |
Headroom, Row 1 | 38.9 in | 41.8 in | -2.9 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 54.9 in | 58.4 in | -3.5 in |
Hip Room, Row 1 | 0.0 in | 55.4 in | -55.4 in |
Legroom, Row 1 | 42.0 in | 40.8 in | 1.2 in |
Headroom, Row 2 | 38.0 in | 40.5 in | -2.5 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 54.0 in | 57.1 in | -3.1 in |
Hip Room, Row 2 | 0.0 in | 55.0 in | -55 in |
Legroom, Row 2 | 36.2 in | 44.3 in | -8.1 in |
Headroom, Row 3 | 0.0 in | 38.7 in | -38.7 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 3 | 0.0 in | 50.8 in | -50.8 in |
Hip Room, Row 3 | 0.0 in | 41.1 in | -41.1 in |
Legroom, Row 3 | 0.0 in | 33.4 in | -33.4 in |
Total Legroom | 78.2 in (over 2 rows) | 118.5 in (over 3 rows) | -40.3 in |
Cargo Volume, Minimum | 17.0 ft3 | 19.4 ft3 | -2.4 ft3 |
Cargo Volume, Behind R2 | 17.0 | 45.0 ft3 | -28 |
Cargo Volume, Maximum | 43.8 ft3 | 86.7 ft3 | -42.9 ft3 |
2010 Mazda Mazda3 Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2010 | 4dr Hatch 167-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed manual FWD |
Tilt and telescopic wheel plus the adjustments with the drivers seat had me in a very good/comfortable driving position. Being comfortable allows me to concentrate on the drive ahead instead of being distracted by squirming around in the seat. see full Mazda Mazda3 review |
2010 | 4dr Hatch 167-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed manual FWD |
Being a 5 door hatch, there is plenty of room back for 2 full size adults or 3 kids/teenagers. The versatility of the hatch makes it feel like a Mini SUV. see full Mazda Mazda3 review |
2010 | 4dr Hatch 167-horsepower 2.5L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
Very comfortable and form fitting. My butt and back feel supported. Leg room is great. see full Mazda Mazda3 review |
2009 | 4dr Hatch turbocharged 263hp 2.3L I4 6-speed manual FWD |
Kids easily able to get in/out of back (4-doors) and often able to take co-workers to lunch (both of which is much more of a hassle with 2-doors). see full Mazda Mazda3 review |
2010 Mazda Mazda3 Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2011 | 4dr Sedan 167-horsepower 2.5L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
The Mazda3 is not a vehicle for transporting more than 2 people. The backseat is cramped for a full-size adult. However, when required, they will fit. see full Mazda Mazda3 review |
2011 | 4dr Sedan 104-horsepower 1.6L I4 5-speed manual FWD |
Seating room is borderline for 2 adults, particularly leg room. 3 adults virtually impossible. see full Mazda Mazda3 review |
2010 | 4dr Sedan 167-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed manual FWD |
Rear seat space can be tight see full Mazda Mazda3 review |
2012 Ford Flex Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2011 | 4dr SUV turbocharged 355hp 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD |
The seating throughout the vehicle is extremely roomy. Adults can fit comfortably in both the second and third row seats. The driver and passenger seats are also extremely comfortable. see full Ford Flex review |