Some people (and cars) are just born with that special something — a star power that not only makes them special, but also makes it acceptable for them to be a bit more demanding of the world around them. This phenomenon is often dubbed “being a diva”, and it applies just as much to famous people who demand Cool Ranch Doritos in their dressing rooms (lookin’ at you, Britney Spears) as to cars like this 2013 Mazda MazdaSpeed3: both are larger than life, frighteningly powerful, and occasionally demonstrate signs of being a bit unbalanced.

Our test MazdaSpeed3 was also a very bright, sensual red (Velocity Red Mica) that not only screamed “fast” and “give me a ticket”, but also hinted at this car’s seductive charms. One might say it was a shade of “hussy red”, but that would be taking it too far, as this hatchback looks handsome in all photos, especially when equipped with the 18-inch gunmetal alloy wheels that set a nice contrast with this sporting red hot hatch.

Speaking of divas some might refer to as “hussies,” Dolly Parton has often said that “it takes a lot of money to look this cheap, and underneath the wig and the boobs lay a brain and a heart.” Since the MazdaSpeed3 is based on the more basic commuter many people use as their main transport when they “9 to 5,” how well does this far more powerful, glitzy, star-power-infused variant fare as a daily driver? Let’s find out if there’s substance underneath all the visual menace that the 2013 MazdaSpeed3 possesses.

The Looks
If you’re introverted, stick to a regular Mazda3, or at least don’t order your MazdaSpeed3 in red. We happened to like the latter’s muscular wheel arches, squat haunches, and front-end smile — two of which we also find appealing in men. After all, a nice smile goes a long way.

Adding to the sporty effect is the rather large air intake on the hood that looks like it was designed to inhale birds, kittens, and other sweet, furry creatures the car encounters as it roars down the road. Doesn’t matter if it’s a freeway, a city street, or just down your driveway, there’s no doubt that the 2013 MazdaSpeed3 does everything with a dose of rough and tumble seriousness. This is not a car to be ignored, as driving it is one of the most engaging things you can still do legally on regular roads. However, that isn’t to say this car won’t bite back if you treat it like some underpowered commuter with lazy, imprecise handling.

Living with the 2013 MazdaSpeed3 as Your Daily Driver
The 2013 MazdaSpeed3 is anything but imprecise. Its steering is so quick, it could cut you like a surgeon’s scalpel without you even noticing. Even though Mazda has done a lot to improve the way this hot hatch tends to steer itself as you shift from first to second at redline, this is not a maneuver you want to undertake without both hands firmly on the wheel. All the MazdaSpeed3 asks of you is that you pay attention to it while driving. Is that too much to ask?

You see, the 2013 MazdaSpeed3 comes with an epically potent, out of control 2.3 liter turbocharged, direct-injected 263 horsepower/280 ft-lbs of torque four-cylinder, all putting the power down via the front wheels. Thankfully Mazda included a torque-sensing conical limited-slip differential that help keeps the engine power from steering the car under most circumstances, but there are exceptions. Just listen to what your MazdaSpeed3 tells you to do, and we promise it won’t be the cause of your death. It just likes to have a good time.

The MazdaSpeed3 will never leave you hanging, thanks to a specially tuned sports suspension as well as uprated brakes made to withstand the extra abuse a car with this kind of power plant will suffer. Try as you might to drive the 2013 MazdaSpeed3 slowly and maturely, but that darn turbo is like a tiny devil on your shoulder screaming “floor it!” Bad devil. It also corners like it’s nailed to the pavement.

Tire roar is noticeably louder than in a regular Mazda3, but when cruising at freeway speeds, wind and engine noise are nicely muted. If you still want aural liberation from “car noises”, then you will be suitably impressed by the standard 10-speaker Bose audio system that helps drown out any unwanted sound. With the second row in place, the MazdaSpeed3 offers 17 cubic feet of cargo room, which grows to 42.8 when you fold the rear seats flat. That’s one handy red-hot-hatch rocket ship.

Safety, Fuel Economy, Value
EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2013 MazdaSpeed3 are 18 city/25 highway, and due to our love of the intoxicating turbo, we averaged 19.1 miles per gallon. We’re sure that with a lighter left foot you’ll get better fuel economy. As far as safety goes, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the five-door MazdaSpeed3 a “Top Safety Pick”, which is just off the top score of “Top Safety Pick Plus” — though in fairness, the 2013 Honda Civic Si is the only car in the MazdaSpeed3′s class to earn the extra “Plus”.

Our 2013 MazdaSpeed3 started at a very reasonable $24,200 considering the features on hand like halogen headlamps, a 265-watt Bose 10-speaker audio system with AM/FM/CD/AUX/iPod integration, Bluetooth, dual zone automatic climate control, a limited slip differential, leather seats, and keyless entry.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and if you want an automatic transmission instead, you’re S.O.L. (Perhaps Monsieur or Madame would like to see a Volkswagen GTI?) Our tester also came equipped with a spurious $200 interior lighting kit, a homelink with rain-sensing technology package ($275), as well as the MazdaSpeed Tech Package, which adds $2,485 to the sticker resulting in an MSRP of $27,180. That last package includes a full color/full-sized in-dash navigation screen, replacing the old, difficult-to-read unit from the last model year. There’s also a blind-spot warning system, push button start, an alarm system, rain sensing wipers, automatic xenon headlamps, adaptive swiveling front lights, and LED tail lamps.

Conclusion
In a world where so many of us are stuck in the hum-drum monotony of living a Dolly Parton-style “9 to 5” existence, the 2013 MazdaSpeed3 is like a shot of adrenaline and a “cup of ambition”. Driving this car is a visceral experience you don’t often find nowadays, and it isn’t necessarily for everyone. It’s far too ferocious for that. Ask yourself, are you man or woman enough for the 2013 MazdaSpeed3?

What We Liked About the 2013 MazdaSpeed3

• The potent engine and involving driving experience makes for an exhilarating street-racer
• The new full-size navigation screen front and center on the dashboard
• The utility you get from any five door hatchback model, and did we mention the turbo?

What We’d Change About the 2013 MazdaSpeed3

• It could use a little bit more rear legroom as competitors offer more space
• Mazda should shoot for a “Top Safety Pick Plus” rating for the redesign of the MazdaSpeed3
• Less notchiness in the stick shift, if possible, as the regular 3 Skactiv’s unit is perfectly weighted

Back when The Love Boat sailed the Seven Seas with a heavenly host of Charlie’s Angels, you could get a good small car for about $5,000. As we entered the gay 90s with Hillary and Bill Clinton, the size of our cars increased, and starting prices doubled to about $10,000. Now, in the day of sequestration and Inauguration Day lip-synching, the size of a good small car has doubled once again — this time to around $20,000.

Here is where the Mazda CX-5 makes an entrance. Brand new for 2013, the CX-5 isn’t a small car but a practical compact crossover (built on a car platform) that provides a nice, solid ride and all the strength of an SUV, complete with style, flair, and sexiness. A replacement for the Mazda Tribute, the CX-5 starts at $21,000 — before and after sequestration.

The CX-5 gives Mazda a presence in America’s thriving small SUV market. (Personally, I thought the CX-7 — the bigger version of the CX-5 — did that, but what do I know?) The new crossover should be both a hit with audiences and a moneymaker for Mazda.

The CX-5 has generated a lot of buzz, mostly because of its new design called “KODO – Soul of Motion.” That’s not a sequel to Kung Fu Panda, but an impressive design concept that mirrors the appearance of fast animals and fast humans. In Mazda’s own words, KODO design allows a car to pounce, like “the instant when a cheetah pounces on its prey, or the moment of a sword strike in the ancient Japanese martial art of Kendo.”

Yeah, yeah, sure. I’m hard-pressed to see it, but apparently others see a lot of things that I don’t. Let’s just say the CX-5 is nice-looking, with a uni-body design that allows for a stronger yet quieter ride.

To make it pounce, the CX-5 also has Mazda’s SkyActiv engine technology, which helps the car perform better while saving you money at the pump. Wikipedia can tell you all about SkyActiv, because it’s way too Big Bang theory for me. But I do know that this efficiency allows a modest 2.0 liter, direct-injection four-cylinder engine (the only engine available on the CX-5) to perform quite well — almost like a cheetah or gazelle, I suspect.

Starting at $21K and ultimately pushing $30K, the new CX-5 can be had as a Sport, Touring, or Grand Touring vehicle. Across all three of those trim levels, stability control and electronic brakeforce distribution are now standard, which is a big boost for safety. Finally, manufacturers understand that vehicle safety really shouldn’t be an option based on who can afford it.

I drove the 2013 Mazda CX-5 Sport before the snow started to fall, so I can only comment on how it handles on clear roads: perfectly. Motoring through the Rocky Mountains, which is always challenging, the CX-5′s performance was consistent and impressive. I had to brake hard a few times for deer, and the braking was precise, effective, and relatively smooth, though I think someone in the backseat did spill her Jamba Juice.

As with many smaller cars and SUVs, my only real beef with the CX-5 is that seating in the rear is a tad tight. There seems to be a fair amount of headroom in the back seats, but it would still be uncomfortable for three average-sized adults to squeeze back there for a ride to the Florida Keys, even if they were driving from Miami.

Otherwise, the CX-5′s interior is nice and cozy. The most prominent feature on the center stack is the in-dash navigation system — though I have to admit, I’m not a fan of such things. It’s not that they’re lousy, but these days, almost everyone has Google Maps on her smart phone. I love the ease and simplicity of Google Maps, and since you and I already have this — not to mention the fact that almost all car navigation systems are optional and require extra cash — why not just use what already works? Should you go with the optional navigation system, it’s Tom Tom.

I should point out that the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is the winner of the 2012-2013 Japan Car of the Year Award. Considering its competition, that’s saying a lot. If you’re in the market for a crossover, you really can’t go wrong with the CX-5.

You just may have to strain a bit to see it as a cheetah.

That’s right, we love the Miata – and we’re totally cool with it.

Alright, get it out of your system right now. Make all the Miata jokes you like because, if you’ve ever been behind the wheel of this two-passenger drop-top, you know who’s going to get the last laugh. Every time I get reacquainted with the Mazda Miata I instantly fall back in love with its intoxicating mix of sharp handling and incredibly precise manual gearbox (one of the best ever!). The engine routinely surprises me since, with so much thought given to the Miata’s other fine attributes, I’ll sometimes forget that it’s not exactly pokey in a straight line. The 167-bph 2.0-liter inline-four offers a good amount of grunt, a definite step above an economy car, but still far from challenging the likes of Mustangs and WRXs.

Back to the steering and that aforementioned gearbox. Both are incredible, and you find yourself giving the steering wheel a wiggle and shifting up or down through the H-gate because, well, it’s just so much fun. A six-speed automatic is available if you’re not comfy with the manual, but if there is ever a time to learn how to shift for yourself, this gearbox is it.

Less thrilling is the overall head and legroom that, at least for me, isn’t an issue — at 5’9 there’s still some room to spare. Yet for anyone over six feet, you’d better keep the top down permanently and the seat back as far as possible. Each generation of Miata has been a tad less cozy than the one before it, but this remains one of the tightest cabins out there. [The next Miata -- due in one or two years time and being developed in cooperation with Alfa Romeo -- promises another step forwards in terms of cabin comfort.]

As you’ve guessed, luggage room is pretty lousy with only 5.3 cubic feet available. Oh well, all the more reason to pack lightly for a weekend trip and skip the outlet malls on the way back home. The Miata is about driving, not making runs to IKEA. On the streets of New York City it proved the perfect weapon, scything through traffic and squirting down city streets with the top down and engine burbling. And yes, I’ll admit it, my ego was somewhat soothed by the (relatively) butch spec of my test car. The red paintjob and large black-painted alloy wheels and black power retractable hardtop gave the wee Mazda some real visual sting.

Despite being due for replacement in the next year or two, more than a few passersby asked if my hard-top model was a brand new version of the Miata. Purists might prefer the soft-top and, frankly, choosing to fold the roof yourself saves you money – the Miata PRHT in Touring trim starts at $27,540 (not including destination), or roughly $4-grand more than the base model. Then again, there’s a lot to be said for the extra sound insulation, security, and convenience of the powered hardtop. Fuel economy is only okay for a four-cylinder, the Miata returns 22/28 mpg during city and highway driving. For comparison, the 201 bhp Hyundai Veloster Turbo manages 38 mpg on the highway — though it’s strictly a coupe, albeit one with a quirky 3-door format.

The Miata demands some sacrifices but, so long as you physically fit into the car, it remains one of the automotive world’s best performance bargains.

It’s Saturday night and you’re all set to drive to the Cedar Springs area in Dallas, or Boystown in Chicago, or South-of-Market in San Francisco.  Thank goodness you’re driving the compact yet classy Mazda3, because parking will be tight.

Measuring in at 104 inches long — just two inches longer than the Ford Focus — the Mazda3 can get in and out of tight parking spaces with ease. People who’ve driven it frequently agree that it’s a great little all-around car.

Admittedly, there’s nothing all that spectacular about the Mazda3, but that’s what makes it such a great ride. If all you need is a reliable vehicle to get your from Points A to Z and all hot spots in between, the Mazda3 is the place to start (and maybe end).

Anti-lock brakes, halogen headlights, power mirrors, traction control, and an anti-theft system are just a few of the standard features that come with the Mazda3. All engines are four-cylinder, and mileage can run as low as 20 mpg in the city and as much as 40 mpg on the highway. The base model starts at $15,000, and the fully-loaded one goes as high as $25,000.

But why take just my word?  Whenever you’re shopping for a new car, always do your homework.  Here are websites with reviews that I feel are accurate and reliable:

TheCarConnection gushes about the Mazda3′s handling, stability, and class-leading steering feel, as well as the swanky interior — though road noise can be a problem.

Edmunds.com also finds the Mazda3 to have very good control on the road, gripping it with firmness not normally displayed in a small car.  The grip may be a little too firm, they add, as many small car drivers are used to the “softness” of, say, the Toyota Tercel.

U.S. News and World Report, always a reliable source for new car information, gave the 2012 Mazda3 a ranking of six (out of 41) in the Affordable Small Car Category, citing the model as having both great gas mileage and great performance.

About the only downside that most reviewers find — myself included — is that the Mazda3 is not just tight with parking but, unfortunately, it’s also tight on interior space. Getting in and out of the backseat is tough, even if you’re an adult of average build, and being comfortable in the backseat is also more of challenge than it should be. Children and pets, though? Perfect.

The only other aspect that I disliked was the navigation and control screen, which is available on the higher-end trims.  The screen is too small to be useful, and in some ways it’s a distraction, though the actual navigation system itself is quite useful.

Best of all, the 2012 Mazda3 is virtually identical to its slightly younger 2013 sibling — and at sites across the country, the 2012 model is going on sale, as dealers work to make room for next year’s models. If you’re looking for a reliable car to move around the city with ease, you’d be smart to check it out.

The term “mini van” has become an oxymoron; it’s like “jumbo shrimp” or “livable wage”, you just can’t reconcile the two words. The truth is, today’s so-called minivans are almost as big as their full-size van cousins. So, when Mazda got the grand idea to build a family hauling wagon on the zippy MAZDA3 platform, they wisely chose to incorporate the best features of a minivan (namely its three-row seating configuration and sliding side doors) with the heart and soul of a compact performance sedan, thus creating the first sport-oriented mini , minivan. For 2012, Mazda has taken its mini masterpiece one step further by giving it something few other minivans to date have offered: style.

To understand what has transpired, one must first familiarize themselves with the Nagare show car that made the auto show rounds a few years back. Its elegant shape and unique side sculpting turned heads (as did the man who designed it, Lauren van den Acker) and set in motion the idea behind the new MAZDA5. The Nagare’s most striking detail is its flowing lines which appear similar to the imprint left behind when a rake is pulled over sand. I’m sure I’ve just committed a horrible injustice to Lauren’s work, but that’s the best visual my tired old brain can muster at the moment. Daring styling that looks amazing on show cars rarely translate well into production vehicles. But, in the MAZDA5’s case, the transplant is a complete success. The MAZDA5’s sleek shape, sporty wheels and grinning wide mouth grille are enough to make it stand out on its own, but the Nagare side sculpting, representing by three flowing creases that sweep along the side sheet metal and culminate with dramatic flair on the front doors, really identifies this wagon as something special. Even cooler is the way the van changes appearance depending on the time of day. The sculpted side lines are easily influenced by lighting, sometimes popping out like three dimensional racing stripes, and at other times appearing so subtle as to look like shadows.

That the words “visually alluring” and “minivan” can be used in the same sentence is praise enough for Mazda’s latest accomplishment. But, that this rolling sculpture is also extremely functional and fun to drive is nothing short of a miracle; oh wait, did I mention you can have all this for well under $20,000? Somebody call the Vatican; it’s officially a miracle.

Matching the MAZDA5’s sporty exterior is an equally sporty driving experience. Power is derived from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 157 horsepower and 162 lbs.-ft of torque. While these numbers may seem a bit low for a vehicle intended to carry six passengers, the little 2.5-liter engine is actually quite robust. When teamed with the five-speed automatic, the MAZDA5 had no problem merging with traffic and passing slower moving vehicles. Then again, we didn’t have a full complement of passengers on board, a condition we admit will probably produce less stellar results. Still, the MAZDA5’s engine never felt taxed or underpowered , and we averaged just under 30 -mpg on our part highway, part twisting mountain road sojourn. The MAZDA5’s stiff suspension and precise steering make it a joy to drive, but the ride can became a bit harsh over rough or uneven pavement. Chalk it up to the big 17-inch low profile tires and the stiffer suspension set up.

Although it is consistently referred to it as a minivan, don’t let the MAZDA5’s size fool you; there is plenty of room inside for six people (or four passengers and their gear). Unlike many smaller crossover utility vehicles (CUVS), the MAZDA5’s third row seat is actually useable, and the dual sliding side doors make accessing the interior much easier than with conventional swing out doors, particularly when trying to anchor in two child seats. Base models offer handsome fabric seating, while the Grand Touring features black or cream colored leather, the latter fitted with contrasting red piping that brings back memories of the 1975 Lipstick Lincoln Mark IV; nice touch.

If there is one gripe we have with the MAZDA5’s seating configuration, it’s the standard second-row captain’s seats. They are very comfortable and a real God send for separating feuding teenagers, or quarreling boyfriends, but there are certainly plenty of times a bench seat would be more convenient. On the flip side, the MAZDA5 is incredibly versatile, with a 50/50 split-folding third-row seat that can be stowed flush into the floor , and second-row seats that fold flat to create a massive cargo bay. Small conveniences abound, such as the second-row ‘s flip up center table and cup holder, sliding side door windows that can be rolled down, and additional storage beneath the second-row seat bottom cushions.

From the driver’s seat, the view is equally nice with large legible displays and easy to reach switch gear. Steering wheel mounted controls for the cruise, audio and, on upper- end models, Bluetooth make it easy to keep your eyes on the road while selecting your favorite music or dialing up a buddy. One thing sorely missing from a vehicle whose intended audience is the under 30 set is a decent audio system. The MAZDA5 doesn’t offer the same Bose setup found in the MAZDA3 Grand Touring. It doesn’t even have a USB input for your iPod; only an auxiliary audio input jack. For a generation that cares more about music than mechanicals, this omission seems glaring, especially since Ford will soon be launching the C-Max minivan competitor probably with the SYNC audio system.

Audio misstep aside, the MAZDA5’s standard content list has clearly been given some thought. The entry-level Sport model starts just under $20,000 and includes a six-speed manual transmission (all other trims receive a five-speed automatic with manual shift control). Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, power mirrors, power windows and door locks, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with six speakers, audio auxiliary jack, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, remote keyless entry system, one-touch up/down driver’s window, 50/50 split fold-down third row seats and steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls. Standard safety features include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock brakes (ABS), advanced dual front air bags, front seat side air bags, three-row side air curtains, second row LATCH child safety seat anchors and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

The Touring trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler, fog lamps, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity with streaming audio and a trip computer, while the top-of-the-line Grand Touring adds a power moonroof, HID headlamps, heated side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, driver’s seat lumbar support, heated front seats, in-dash six-disc CD changer, SIRIUS satellite radio and leather seating surfaces.

Is the MAZDA5 a suitable replacement for a full-size van or SUV? Probably not. Can it go off-roading or tow a boat? Nope. But, if you’re in the market for a fun, affordable and extremely versatile family ride that is as easy on gas as it is to park (and is a blast to drive), the MAZDA5 should definitely be at the top of your test drive list.

By Casey Williams

Built in 1954 by architect Morris Lapidus, Miami Beach’s Fontainebleau was once the most luxurious and modern hotel in the country. Its curvy façade and bright blue pools made a perfect backdrop for Frank Sinatra welcoming Elvis Presley home from the Army in 1960 during an ABC television special. You’ve also seen the hotel in Goldfinger, Police Academy 5, and The Bodyguard. It welcomed both the conservatively wealthy and flamboyantly avant-garde down its famed stairway to nowhere. You could make a grand entrance at the Fontainebleau coming from just about anywhere.

No matter your station in life, cruising around in the 2010 MAZDA3 Sedan makes its own grand entrance. Styling is based on Mazda’s Nagare (motion and flow) philosophy. Curvy bodylines, Celestial Blue metallic paint, 17″ alloy wheels, and a high-decked trunklid flaunt the MAZDA3′s flamboyance; body sculpting looks like it was etched by wind, sand, and time. But, the MAZDA3 isn’t just a clone of a crusty old Liberace. Think more like Dennis Rodman: it’s showy, but has the goods to back up its flash.

The powerful used to come and play at the Fontainebleau. With the MAZDA3 Grand Touring’s power, you’ll want to play in the sun, or all night long. Base models come with a 148 hp 2.0-litre engine, but the GT belts it out with a 16-valve 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that generates 167 hp. Power comes on so smoothly that at first you might think there’s a turbo lurking beneath the car’s creased curves. If God created the Miata’s manual transmission, then his son turned water into the MAZDA3′s six-speed gearbox. Fuel economy ratings of 21/29 mpg city/hwy at least hint at heaven.

A hotel that has lasted a half-century must have good bones under the façade. Same with the MAZDA3′s chassis. Bestowing the feel of an entry-luxury Japanese sport sedan, the four-wheel independent suspension absorbs bumps and bruises like the old hotel soaks up hurricanes. Nothing seems to shake the car’s structure. Even over long stretches of broken downtown pavement, the car just rumbles over without a squeak, rattle, or hint of dissension. The MAZDA3 storms through quick backroads and tight onramps with maturity usually reserved for much more expensive cars. It feels like a Miata was stretched to accommodate four doors and a large trunk. Electronic stability control, traction control, and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes keep this party under control. Overall behavior reminds me of the last-generation Acura TSX — still one of my favorite cars.

Hotels like the Fontainebleau are known for their grand ballrooms, designed in contemporary style with lighting and drapery to impress. Mazda’s interior designers went all out in the MAZDA3 to give its cabin a comfortable, yet sporting flair. This is a place from which you want to rip through mountain roads, but also relax after a tough day making pay. Bolstered sport seats, huge analog gauges, a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, close pedals, and leather shift knob get your business done. Heated leather cushions, steering wheel audio controls, and automatic climate control add comfort (and the fab A/C will flat blast your chilled ass out of there).

Designers cleverly wrapped the dash from behind the instruments down into the center console, creating a cove for the navigation screen and audio read-outs. All you need is easily-accessible, but there is an incredible amount of technology ready for the asking. Keyless entry and push-button starting are but two examples. Your more raucous side could listen to a symphony on the Bose audio system, but that would probably bounce the neighbors’ flower pots right off their porches.

Current owners of the Fontainebleau have concluded recent renovations without ruining anything that makes the hotel spectacular. Sure, they added a new tower, upgraded the cabanas, and probably planted a few more palm trees. But, the essence of what makes the hotel great can be easily found. Since the Mazda GLC evolved into the 323, which begat the Protege and the MAZDA3, Mazda’s small cars have had soul, durability, and a revered place among the compact faithful. ZOOM-ZOOM still means something, even with all of the freshness pumped into this latest rendition.

High-finned Cadillacs may never again grace the Fontainebleau’s driveways, but the MAZDA3 is nothing if not a fontaine of bleu. The hotel was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008, and given proper maintenance, you just might drive your MAZDA3 long enough to qualify for a set of Historic Vehicle plates. It has enough electronic tricks to impress James Bond, ample power to entangle a police force, and sufficient safety to guard five of your family’s bodies. While the Fontainebleau may have fought with the neighboring Eden Roc hotel over air rights, the MAZDA3 will do battle with the Honda Civic, Kia Forte, Ford Focus, and upcoming Chevy Cruze. Price as tested came to $24,840.

2010 MAZDA3 Grand Touring

Five-passenger, FWD Sedan
Powertrain: 167 hp 2.5-litre I4, six-speed manual transmission
Suspension f/r: Ind./Ind.
Wheels: 17″/17″ f/r.
Brakes: Disc fr/rr with ABS

By Nick Kurczewski

The 2011 Mazda MAZDA2 four-door hatchback brings a cute new face to an increasingly crowded sub-compact market currently dominated by the Nissan Versa, Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris. Low-running costs and a bargain price-tag are the key ingredients in this company. And while it doesn’t have the same “zoom zoom” driving excitement you’ll find in a sporty Mazda Miata roadster, or the slightly larger and more powerful MAZDA3, the MAZDA2 does have some nice moves of its own.

For a base price of $14,730, the 2011 MAZDA2 does many things well and, in some cases, much better than the competition. In terms of exterior design, the MAZDA2 is a huge improvement on the frumpy Versa and potato-shaped Yaris. Mazda officials said they wanted to instill a coupe-like profile, to avoid the “mini-minivan” (Mazda’s terminology) look of the Honda Fit. Cute without being faddish, the MAZDA2 is one of the best looking subcompacts — though the 2011 Ford Fiesta is probably tops in the looks department.

However, if the Ford is a little too pricey (the base Fiesta is more than $15,000), the MAZDA2 is worth serious consideration. Remember, this is 2010, a time when excess and vanity is out of style; sorry to those outdated divas in Sex and the City 2, along with every HUMMER owner, but being frugal is now cool. For many car buyers, fuel mileage has become as much a bragging point as heavy-hitting horsepower and rapid 0-to-60 times. This is good news for the MAZDA2, which sips fuel and has loads of standard features, but doesn’t suffer from any excess of horsepower.

The standard Sport model comes with air conditioning, power windows and locks, anti-lock brakes, and safety features like stability control and traction control. The Touring model ($16,185) adds fog-lights, alloy wheels, sportier seating with red piping, and audio controls on the steering wheel. There is no ‘stripper’ model (as in, no frills or features, not pasties and pole dances). But unless you get cheap thrills from winding up your own windows, there’s really no reason to complain.

However, a few extra ponies under the hood would be nice. With its 100-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder, the MAZDA2 is one of the least powerful cars on sale. You’d need the reflexes of a three-toed sloth to somehow get this front-wheel drive hatch slipping and sliding to engage the stability and traction control. Still, they’re nice safety features to have. And none of the MAZDA2′s competitors are exactly what we’d call pocket rockets.

Mazda has chosen a less-is-more approach, shedding weight from the MAZDA2 wherever and whenever possible. From the suspension components, to the chassis and wiring harness, every gram of extra poundage has been trimmed down. Even the door-speakers weigh roughly half of what they did in the last generation MAZDA2. Strange then that Mazda decided on a doughnut stop only 45 minutes into the test drive. After two jelly-filled and a large coffee, I’d probably undone some poor Mazda engineer’s hard work.

On sale since 2007, the previous MAZDA2 never made it to the U.S. Yet while living in Europe, I had the chance to drive the outgoing MAZDA2 in several trim levels, with a variety of gasoline and diesel engines. Nimble and easy to drive, Mazda was smart to leave the best attributes alone in the new model. Climbing behind the wheel of a MAZDA2 Sport, with optional 4-speed automatic ($800), I immediately felt at home and ready to dice with traffic.

The cabin is dominated by black and grey plastic, but the quality of the materials is good for the price-point and the controls are logically positioned. Too bad the cloth seats in the Sport model never did feel quite right. No matter where I positioned them, or how I wiggled around, my lower back started to ache after only a few miles. The vent for air recirculation also felt surprisingly cheap as I slid it back and forth, grimacing at the clunky feel and sound it made.

But you can’t argue with spacious seating for four (five in a pinch) combined with a 35 mile per gallon average during highway driving (with the 5-speed manual). This drops by a couple mpg with the four-speed automatic, but the trade-off is worth it if you’re routinely dealing with stop-and-go traffic. Mazda expects that nearly 80-percent of buyers will opt for the automatic — it’d be my choice, too.

After all the talk about approximately 200 lbs being shaved from the new MAZDA2, I probably expected a little too much from the steering. It’s precise and nicely weighted, especially for city driving. And for a sub-compact there’s much more driving pleasure here than you’d expect. Yet it didn’t feel much different from the MAZDA2s I drove in Europe which, to be fair, were always nice cars to zip around in.

So where does that leave the 2011 MAZDA2? It’s not a game-changer, though its cute looks and zippy handling offer lots of charm — along with a rare dose of driving pleasure in the sub-compact market. There is some actual soul under this car’s sheet-metal, even if some interior controls feel cheap and the stingy luggage space trails many competitors. The sub-compact market is heating up, economy is definitely in, and the MAZDA2 is a worthy addition to the field.

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Contact: Jarrod Holland
HHPR
910.395.9109
jarrod@hhpr.biz

Winners Announced at Chicago Auto Show – Automotive Journalist of the Year Named

Chicago (February 10, 2010)–The Internet Car and Truck of the Year website, an online venue not dependent on OEM advertising, held its inaugural Internet Pros and Average Joes vote for their favorite new cars.
The Internet Pros are comprised of a select team of 12 online writers from some of the leading automotive Internet sites, while the Average Joes consisted of more than 50,000 votes from the motoring public.
The winners, announced from the Chicago Auto Show today, are:

Internet Pros:
Car of the Year: 2010 Mazda3
Truck of the Year: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox

Average Joes:
Car of the Year: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro
Truck of the Year: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox
Automotive Analyst Lauren Fix, one of the 12-member jury for the Internet Pros, had this to say about the Mazda3: “It’s just the right size and has great performance. It comes standard with all the available bells and whistles and it’s really edgy looking. I just wanted to take it to the track because it handled tightly, has great throttle response, and it’s a blast to drive.”
Another juror, Dan Roth from Autoblog.com, said he voted for the Chevrolet Equinox because
“”…it’s a clear signal of General Motors newfound realization that it not only needs great products, it needs the *right* great products. Cars like the Camaro, Cadillac CTS-V, and of course the Corvette – we all expect those to be great, and they are. Greatness in a niche is fine, but what’s really going to breathe new life into the stumbling behemoth are the bread-and-butter cars.”
So while the Internet Pros and Average Joes agree on the Truck of the Year they have very differing opinions when it comes to their favorite car. The Pros opted for practicality while the Joes chose power. However, both demonstrated their respect for American Sheet metal with the Equinox.
Between the semi-finals and finals rounds, more than 50,000 votes were cast for the Consumer Internet Car and Truck of the Year. Percent of males vs. females was 79 to 21 percent. Forty-seven percent of the voters were between the ages of 40-55.
College graduates made up 39 percent of the voters, with 30 percent having a graduate degree. Thirty percent of voters reported household income between $100-$149,000. The next largest group at 20 percent was $80,000 to $99,999.
Also announced was the selection of John Neff as Internet Automotive Journalist of the Year. Neff, editor-in-chief of Autoblog.com, was selected for his talented stewardship of the Internet’s largest automotive news site and his advocacy for Internet automotive journalists.
The Internet Car and Truck of the Year awards were created by Keith Griffin, the Guide to Used Cars for About.com, and the Hartford (CT) Auto Examiner for Examiner.com, as well as a print automotive journalist and vice president of the New England Motor Press Association.
For more information on Internet Car and Truck of the Year, email Keith Griffin at
keith@internetcarandtruckoftheyear.com or call (860) 292-0618.

Back to the Top 5 From the 2009 LA Auto Show

Back to the Top 5 From the 2009 LA Auto Show

I attended the 2009 LA Auto show and provided daily updates via Twitter (click HERE for a compilation of my tweets).
As is customary, I choose the Top 5 vehicles from the show and post them here. Note, these are new vehicles introduced from gay-friendly manufacturers. Some of my colleagues will more than likely point out the absence of the excellent vehicles introduced from Hyundai and Kia. Until they extend their same-sex domestic partner policies throughout their organization, they do not qualify to be in our picks from the auto shows.
Our Top 5 Picks from the 2009 LA Auto Show (in no particular order):
2011 Toyota Sienna

Despite the call for the death of the minivan, these boxy movers are still the most efficient at moving people and things. Toyota’s Sienna has been a reliable player but hardly set the stage for styling, features or capacity. All that has changed with the introduction of the 2011 Sienna from Toyota. We won’t go so far as calling it pretty (it looks like a Venza had sex with a Honda Odyssey) but it is bigger, wider and more feature-laden than its predecessor. With available reclining second-row seats complete with footrests, rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center that displays side-by-side images to create a seamless 16.4-inch widescreen image and segment-only optional AWD, Toyota Sienna finally has strong competitor in the segment. The Sienna is available with a 3.5-liter V6 or 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. See more photos of the Toyota Sienna
2011 CTS Coupe

The excellent Cadillac CTS lineup got another addition to the family in a sexy, beefy, muscular coupe. The CTS Coupe will never be mistaken for anything but a Cadillac. It isn’t sexy in a sinewy, sensual sort of way. Rather, it is like a heavily-muscled stallion that impresses with is raw power visible under its taught skin. You may be slightly afraid of it but you know you want to go for a ride. The CTS coupe is powered by the same 3.6 direct-injection V6 as its brethren pushing out 304 horsepower via a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. AWD is also available and the rumor mill hints at a wicked CTS-V Coupe with a supercharged V8 in the future. See more photos of the 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe.
2011 Ford Fiesta

Ford introduced, for the umpteenth time, the 2011 Fiesta at the LA Auto show. While the existence of the vehicle was hardly a secret thanks to a heavily publicized and popular social media blitz, we did get some intriguing details about the hot new hatch from Dearborn. A 1.6L four-cylinder engine will be available with Ford’s version of a dual-clutch automatic transmission called PowerShift. It is more efficient than a traditional automatic transmission and this type of gear changer is usually found on more expensive, high-performance vehicles form Germany. Expect 40 MPG highway with the PowerShift. Also available is a traditional 5-speed automatic for those control freaks like me. The Ford Fiesta starts at $13,320 but quickly gets into the low $20s.See more photos of the 2011 Ford Fiesta.

2011 Mazda2

Mazda calls its Mazda2 “Zoom Zoom Concentrated” and while we haven’t driven it, we aren’t going to argue. It was originally launched in 2007 in markets outside the U.S. and has won a myriad of awards, including the 2008 World Car of the Year. Powered by a 1.5L four-cylinder engine, the Mazda2 promises to deliver fun-to-drive performance in an attractive package. Trust me, the Alien Green they chose to show the car in doesn’t do it justice. Details on specifications and MPG are few but we do know the 1.5L will be available with either a 4-speed AT or a 5-speed manual. The Mazda2 goes on sale in late summer 2010. See more photos of the 2011 Mazda2

2011 Buick Regal

Buick announced their new sport sedan, the 2011 Buick Regal. Based on the excellent Opel Insignia from Germany, GM continues to mine their global resources to bring better product to our shores. The Regal will feature a choice of four-cylinder engines – a standard 2.4L direct injected engine rated at an estimated 182 horsepower and an optional 2.0L turbocharged and direct injected engine rated at an estimated 220 horsepower
Both engines have a six-speed automatic transmission standard and the turbo model will have an optional 6-speed manual. The design is clean, tight and athletic but don’t expect this to be a people mover as the rear seat headroom is tight. The interior is another exercise in functional, stylish simplicity – thank you Opel. The 2011 Buick Regal is available in late Spring 2010. See more photos of the 2011 Buick Regal

Audi R8 Knocks VW Golf Out of Pole Position, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Joins the E-Class on the Gaywheels Most Researched List

New York, NY – Gay and lesbian vehicle shoppers’ behavior is often stereotyped as being all luxury and all convertibles. In reality, the data dispels that myth while giving some credence to it at the same time. Today, Gaywheels.com announced its list of the Top 10 Most-Researched Vehicles during the third quarter of 2009:

Gaywheels.com Top 10 Most-Researched Vehicles -3rd Quarter 2009

Rank
1 Audi R8
2 VW Golf
3 VW Jetta
4 VW Eos
5 Nissan Quest
6 Mitsubishi Outlander
7 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
8 Mazda MAZDA3
9 Saab 9-3
10 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
“If LGBT consumers’ behavior is indicative of future trends, there may be a light at the end of the tunnel for auto makers,” said Gaywheels.com founder Joe LaMuraglia. “For the first time there is a luxury sports car in the #1 spot on the list. Historically, that slot has been held by stylish, affordable and fuel efficient vehicles. We also have the most luxury vehicles ever represented in the research data.”
The Audi R8 debuted on the list in the second quarter of 2009 and has quickly moved up to the top spot. VW continues with a strong showing with the Golf, Jetta and Eos in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th spots respectively. Mercedes-Benz made its first showing ever last quarter and in this time period has two vehicles, the E-Class and the C-Class, on the most-researched list.
“In a study of LGBT new car buyers conducted in the Spring of 2009 with market research and consulting firm Sorgenfrei, we learned that gay men and lesbians have disparate needs and purchase reasons for their vehicles. This may explain the myriad of price points and body styles represented in the data,” said LaMuraglia. “I’ve said this many times, the LGBT consumer is the most diverse diversity group and this data supports that statement.”
The Top 10 Most Researched list is based on website statistics gathered from July 1, 2009 – September 30, 2009 from Gaywheels.com’s new car data partner vLane.com. Gaywheels.com publishes the Most-Researched list quarterly.
Go to the Top 10 Index

About Gaywheels.com
Launched in 2005, Gaywheels.com is dedicated to promoting responsible consumerism and affecting change by encouraging car shoppers to patronize gay-friendly companies throughout the vehicle purchase process. Users of the site are able to investigate which automakers and other automotive companies offer domestic partner benefits to their employees, thus qualifying them as “gay-friendly,” plus read general reviews about cars, trucks and SUVs from those manufacturers. With that information at hand, they can make educated choices during the car-buying process. For more information, please visit www.Gaywheels.com.

Zoom Zoom With Room

by Donny Nordlicht
My Audi-obsessed friend could not believe me when I said that the car I was driving this week was best described as “zippy.” He whined about how it only had a 2.3 liter 4-cylinder sending a measly 153 horsepower through a lowly 5-speed automatic. Oh, yea, and it’s a minivan. But then again, he will rarely give anything not wearing the four rings a second glance. For me, I’ve found the Mazda5 to be one of the best around-town cars I have driven, hands down.

The 5 is a mini-minivan; essentially a longer and taller Mazda3 5-door with sliding doors. But before I go on, let me make everyone aware of my bias: I own a 2008 Mazdaspeed3, so obviously I love my Mazda, and I love them with room for junk in the trunk. Owning a Mazda myself made the ergonomics second nature for me. However, even if i was not part of the Zoom-Zoom faithful, finding a button or knob would be trouble free. The interior layout is simple, straightforward, and very clean. And being a minivan, the interior was light-filled and spacious, with seating for 6. You could either fill up the 5 with your friends, or the rear four seats fold flat making more than enough room for, say, a patio lounge and matching table. Cubbies are abound throughout all three rows, although few of them are covered. The one covered storage space – the glove box – was, as it is in most Mazdas, large enough to swallow an Hermes Birkin bag, complete with small dog.

Speaking of luxury goods, the loaded-for-under-$25,000 Mazda5 comes with features you wouldn’t think to find this far south of $35,000. The Grand Touring model I had was equipped with every option on the checklist, except the navigation system. What that does mean is that it had auto xenon lights, auto wipers, auto climate control, LED taillights, heated leather seats, Blutetooth, and a flip-down DVD player for the rear seats. Surprising was that there was no Bose premium sound system, which is found on the Grand Touring trim level on most other Mazdas. Even more surprising was the fact that the standard audio system was just as good, if not better, than the upgraded systems in most cars in its price range.
But the fact that the Mazda5 is better than most in its class. doesn’t surprise me in the least bit; that seems to be Mazda’s modus operandi. Known generally as the cult favorite, you can see why these cars have such loyal followings. Every Mazda I’ve been behind the wheel of has had quick steering, a nimble handler, and peppy around town. The 5 is no exception, especially with a ride that is goldilocks perfect: not too firm, not too soft. And, oddly enough, I also find that Mazdas are remarkably easy to park. With the room of a much larger car, it’s easy to forget that the mini-minivan is quite, well, mini. That is, until you to parallel park in an SUV-sized spot. The 5 is shorter than both the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord by roughly 10 inches, and just an inch longer than a BMW 3-Series Convertible.
Maybe it’s because I’m a Mazda faithful, but, more likely, but the car is so well engineered, it’s hard to find many faults for the 5. However, it could use either for a more refined and less buzzy engine, and an extra cog in the automatic transmission. Although down a gear from most automatics you find in 2009, I – me, me with my lead foot and heavy a/c usage – managed 25 miles per gallon around town. Highway cruising got me the nice number of 28. If you drive the 5 like a normal person, my guess is that you’ll be cresting 30 mpg’s on the highway.
So for a hair under $25,000 (my car stickered at $24, 975), you can get a loaded, versatile, fun-to-drive package. However, I did learn something about myself after spending a week with the Mazda5: I have a subconscious association with soccer practice when I hear the sound of a sliding door. If I had to pick an efficient, inexpensive car to take the kids to soccer practice in, this would be it.
Photos courtesy of Mazda

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Car, Distilled

by Donny Nordlicht

I didn’t realize how small the MX-5 was when it sat in my driveway. It wasn’t until I slipped into the driver’s seat and found myself looking up at my Mazdaspeed3, a car that is classified as a compact hatch. But as soon as you start moving, it hits you. It’s not that this car is small, it’s that everyone else has extra car and you have just the right amount.

I’ve always said, “Cars before boys,” and people usually don’t believe me (especially those who know how boy-crazy I can be), but the MX-5 really does prove that adage. If I could trade my boyfriend in for some cash-monies to put toward an MX-5, I would in a heartbeat. I kid you not. This car has such a neutral chassis and handling dynamic, paired with a perfectly balanced and light transmission, and just-heavy-enough steering.
Once you get past the driving experience, the car makes little sense. It’s miniscule dimensions are more than apparent inside, and there are some questionable ergonomics that force you to use your right hand for things on your left. But then you live with it for a day. And one of two things happens: either you stop caring because you’re smiling too much from your heavy right foot, or it all starts to make sense in some twisted sense (pun intended). Best part, for about two grand more, and no performance penalty, you get the extra security and ease of a power retractable hard top; hence the PRHT initials tacked on the end of the MX-5′s name.
I love it. It is the best car I have ever driven; hands down. Involving to drive, good-looking, and – most of all – buckets of fun. Now, anyone want to get me one for my birthday?

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Each year, the editors of Gaywheels.com drive hundreds of new cars to find the best new vehicles for you, your partner, your family, and sometimes for ourselves too.
We published our inaugural Favorite Vehicles list in 2007 and are continuing the tradition for 2008. The field of best-ofs includes some 2008, 2009 and even a 2010 model. The list includes vehicles perfect for us, for families, for dates and clubbing, and cars and trucks notable for their new looks, new hardware and new attitude.
The winners for Gaywheels.com’s Best of 2008, in order of seniority, are:
Joe LaMuraglia-Founder, Gaywheels.com

Best New Car: 2009 Mazda6

The newly designed Mazda6 is a bigger, badder and more beautiful entry in the midsize segment from Mazda. With a choice of two engines and the availability of a manual transmission, this car is the epitome of “Zoom-Zoom” for the driver that needs to carry clients or kids as well. I say the Mazda6 is the new 10 for sedans.
Best Makeover: Mercedes-Benz BlueTec Equipped Vehicles

It is more of a transplant than a makeover but the idea is the same. Mercedes-Benz launched their amazing Clean Diesel technology a.k.a. Bluetec in their SUVs and gave Americans a reason to fall in love with them all over again. They are clean, quiet, efficient and they get my vote for best makeover for 2008.
Best Date Car: BMW 1-Series

This the second time I’ve picked a convertible as the best date car. A drop top says you are fun-loving with few responsibilities (a.k.a. single) and the new 1-Series from BMW says all that and more. It is a no-nonsense convertible that gets back to the basics of looking good and driving fun. Enjoy it while you can because once you find your mate, the car in the next category will be more your speed.
Best Family Car: Ford Flex

Just because you have responsibilities doesn’t mean your car has to be boring. The Ford Flex seats up to 7 and looks like nothing else on the road. Stylish inside and out, you may consider it even if you don’t have kids to haul around. Cool features include Sirius Travel Link, Ford’s Sync and an available refrigerator! We called it “Flexalicious”.
Best Club Car: Maserati GranTurismo

You’ve seen it in the movies; two hotties roll up to a club in a sexy car, a valet appears out of nowhere to take their keys and they alight from the car right as the velvet rope is unhooked allowing them direct entry into the club while hundreds of less fortunate wait in the cold. The Maserati might not make you as pretty as the actors in the movie, this gorgeous coupe might just get you to the front of the line at the club. That’s worth $114K+ isn’t it?
Best Car For Me: Volkswagen Jetta TDI Sportwagen

History repeats itself, in bodystyle choices at least. Two years and two wagons as choices of my Best Car for Me. The new VW Jetta Sportwagen is good looking, roomy and with the TDI clean diesel engine, one of the most efficient vehicles on the road today. We called it the “Vehicular Version of Comfortable Shoes”.
Joe Tralongo-Montana Editor
Best New Car: Nissan GT-R
40 years of automotive foreplay came to an end this year when Nissan finally brought its screaming Skyline GT-R stateside. Known here as just the GT-R, this car has been taunting enthusiasts from afar since 1969. The 480 horsepower twin-turbo coupe costs a pretty penny, and a limited production run is bound to push the price even higher, but it’s worth it to own a little piece of automotive history. Good job, Nissan.
Best Makeover: 2010 Mazda MAZDA3

Due out this summer, the all-new Mazda MAZDA3 is going to shatter all preconceived notions of what an economy car should be. With styling that is more exotic and economical, and such cool features as keyless entry and start, the MAZDA3 is the stylish solution to a new fiscal reality.
Best Date Car: Mercedes Benz SL65 AMG Black Series
If he doesn’t swoon when you pull up to his condo complex, just show him the $301,000 price tag. With only 350 cars being produced world wide this car is sure to grab attention, and its fuel thirsty V12 engine makes the old “Uh-oh, we’re out of gas” line utterly believable.

Best Family Car: Chevrolet Traverse

If you’ve got kids and cargo, you need a three-row SUV. The Chevrolet Traverse provides all the room of a full-size SUV in a midsize package that is stylish, safe and economical. Loaded with standard goodies, the V6-powered Traverse can shuttle up to eight passengers and still pull down 24 mpg on the highway.
Best Club Car: Cadillac CTS-V
Cadillac’s V-Series treatment is to the stunning CTS what Human Growth Hormone is to Major League Baseball. With 556-horsepower and standard all-wheel drive, you might want to bypass the club and head straight for Mulholland Drive.
Best Car for Me: Subaru WRX
OK, last year my perfect car as the VW GTI, and in truth it’s still my favorite. But after experiencing my fourth Montana winter, I’ve come to appreciate the wisdom of Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. With the WRX, I get all the fun of the GTI but in a package I can live with year round.

Josee Valcourt-NY Editor
Best New Car: Volkswagen CC

It’s the exterior coupe action combined with a competitive price point that does it for me. This Mercedes Benz CLS look-alike starts nearly at $27,000. The VW midsize newbie looks great in city drives, and I’d assume, it’s just as striking along a winding mountainside road. Its handling is responsive and ride comfortable.
Best Makeover: Infiniti G37
The defunct Infiniti G35 coupe was one good looking car. The G37, its replacement, looks even better. It’s exterior appearance speaks to the Infiniti brand’s design strength. The engine is quiet and fast, propelling the car like a slinky panther.
Best Date Car: Lexus GS350
This a sweet looking car, and in my view, especially in the iridescent pearly white hue. It looks good from dawn till dusk, meaning you’ll be sure to impress your date at any hour. The sporty vehicle has all the necessities one would expect in a luxury brand including a booming sound system that can drown out the awkward first-date silence or weird conversation if needed. It’s also available in all-wheel drive for added traction.

Best Family Car: Volvo XC70
First things first, the Volvo XC70 is a station wagon. Now that we’ve gotta that out of the way, here’s the skinny: the vehicle is also a pretty cool ride for carting the fam in luxury. The XC70 offers a smooth ride and grips curves – a must-have when it comes to hauling your precious bunch from point A to point B. The vehicle is spacious, providing comfortable seating and a roomy cargo. There’s also the whole added safety thing that’s synonymous with a Volvo.
Best Club Car: Nissan 370Z
The new 370Z from Nissan is an attention grabber, for sure. Heads will turn when you pull up in front of your destined swanky club spot of choice. It’s the slick design that gives it a “Bond, James Bond” flair or “Sex and the City” edge. Whether you’re stepping out in a hot LBD (little black dress) or rocking your GQ look, you’ll look good emerging from the 370Z.
Best Car for Me: BMW 335i Convertible
This Beamer hard top is a beast, pumping out 300 horsepower from its twin turbo-charged six-cylinder engine. You may find yourself fighting the urge to scream “woo hoo!” while in motion. The vehicle reacts nicely on roads, hugging curves all the while looking fabulous with its top down.

When 3 is More than Half of 6

by Joe LaMuraglia

The Mazda3 is a very important car for Mazda globally. So when it came time to design the 2010 Mazda3, the question came to “evolution or revolution?”. Thankfully it was “evolution” that won out at Mazda and the new Mazda3 promises to continue as a sales success for Mazda with an all-new vehicle that builds on the previous car’s popularity. The question is; “Is the Madza3 only half as good as the excellent Mazda6?”

I spent a day driving the 2010 Mazda3 sedan on the roads of Southern California and underway, the car really impresses. Both available engines are smooth and quiet and combined with the athletic suspension, deliver the promise of “zoom, zoom” every time you get behind the wheel. In fact, it may be too quiet for those of you that like auditory feedback. There were times we hit the red line under spirited driving because we couldn’t hear what the engine was doing. If you fall into that group, the upcoming Mazdaspeed3 promises to satisfy those urges.
Available in either a four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback, the 2010 Mazda3 features front-wheel drive and a choice of two engines. We drove the 2010 sedan that gave us the first look at the updated exterior and interior styling with a prominent new 5-point grill that is the new “global face” of Mazda. The upcoming 5-door will feature the same styling up front but the entire package hasn’t been revealed yet. Can you say anticipation? Both body styles are available with luxury features never seen before in a compact car.
The Mazda3 is comes in two trim levels; the entry-level “i” and the sportier “s” trim. The base car is equipped with a 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission. The sportier “s” model comes with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 167 horsepower. The larger engine gets a six-speed manual transmission as standard and the same optional five-speed automatic as the base car.
People are thronging to compact cars for the promise of better fuel economy. The 2010 Mazda3 fulfills that promise when equipped with the 2.0-liter engine. It is rated at 25/33 city/hwy with the manual transmission and 24/33 with the automatic. While not class-leading, it is competitive for the segment. The additional 19 horsepower from the larger 2.5-liter engine adds to the fun-to-drive quotient but you pay for it in fuel economy. The 2010 Mazda3 “s” is rated at 21/29 city/hwy with the 6-speed manual and 22/29 with the automatic.

The interior of the 2010 Mazda3 has been redesigned with a focus on the driver. Controls are placed optimally for the pilot to interact with easily and the Multi-Information display and optional navigation are place high on the console to minimize distraction. The optional Satellite radio interface has been vastly improved over the last vehicle but it still isn’t as easy to use as some competitors. The driver-oriented controls are welcomed when you are behind the wheel but their positioning takes some power away from the front passenger. For example, the controls for the optional navigation are on the steering wheel only and scrolling through the iPod interface is much easier using the wheel-mounted controls.
The materials used in the interior are high-quality and even in the pre-production models we drove would be at home in vehicles costing considerably more. Ingress and egress are good and with fold-down rear seats, the trunk capacity in the sedan grows considerably. The lift-over height is high though and the opening to the trunk is a bit narrow. For those of you doing a lot of hauling, the 5-door will be better suited to your needs.

The original Mazda3 changed the compact car segment by offering a great looking, affordable car with features that you couldn’t find in other compact vehicles. The 2010 Mazda3 didn’t fall from the assembly line as it continues the trend with first-in-class bi-xenon adaptive lighting standard on the Grand Touring model. Cars with power seats also add a three-position memory function – another first for the segment, and not offered at any price on any competitors’ compact car.
Other available features include a Bose 10-speaker premium surround sound system, Bluetooth connectivity for cell phones and portable media players, a dock for iPods, and Sirius satellite radio. An advanced keyless entry system includes push-button engine starting. The MAZDA3 options list also includes rain-sensing wipers, sunroof, heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, and heated seats.
Pricing has not been announced for the 2010 Mazda3.
Bottom line: Don’t let the low number fool you, this 3 is much more than half of 6.
Likes
Expressive exterior style
Quality of interior
Excellent performance
Smooth, quiet engines
Luxury features in an economy car

Dislikes
Some options only available with larger engine
Navigation screen is small with driver-only controls
Only average fuel economy with the bigger engine

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Ties Abound as Toyota Matrix, smart fortwo and Maserati GranTurismo Debut
River Edge, NJ – Gaywheels.com, the sole source of information specifically targeted to and about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) car-shoppers, today announced its list of the Top 10 Most-Researched Vehicles during the third quarter of 2008. The Volkswagen Rabbit and Eos remained in first and second place, respectively. Mazda’s MAZDA3 gave up the third slot to its sister car from Mazda, the MX-5 who now shares that position with the Audi A3.
“The Top 10 Most Researched list tends to be self-perpetuating,” said Gaywheels.com founder Joe LaMuraglia. “But with the arrival of the Toyota Matrix, smart fortwo and Maserati GranTurismo, our users continue to amaze us with their diversity of vehicle interests”.
For the first time, there were multiple ties on the list. In addition to the tie for third, the MAZDA3 and VW Jetta vied for the fourth slot, the Saab 9-3 and Dodge Caliber both slotted in at 6th and the newcomer Toyota Matrix joined the MINI Cooper as the 9th Most-Researched Vehicles. Rounding out the Top 10 is the Maserati GranTurismo – first exotic vehicle to ever appear on the list.

Gaywheels.com Top 10 Most-Researched Vehicles – 3rd Quarter 2008
Rank
1 VW Rabbit
2 VW Eos
3 Mazda MX-5 Miata and Audi A3 – tie
4 Mazda MAZDA3 and VW Jetta - tie
5 Toyota Yaris
6 Saab 9-3 and Dodge Caliber -tie
7 Volvo C30
8 smart fortwo
9 Toyota Matrix and MINI Cooper – tie
10 Maserati GranTurismo
The Top 10 Most Researched list is based on website statistics gathered from July 1, 2008 – September 30, 2008 from Gaywheels.com’s New Car section. Gaywheels.com publishes its Most-Researched list quarterly.

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Launched in 2005, Gaywheels.com is dedicated to promoting responsible consumerism and affecting change by encouraging car shoppers to patronize gay-friendly companies throughout the vehicle purchase process. Users of the site are able to investigate which automakers and other automotive companies offer domestic partner benefits to their employees, thus qualifying them as “gay-friendly,” plus read general reviews about cars, trucks and SUVs from those manufacturers. With that information at hand, they can make educated choices during the car-buying process. For more information, please visit www.Gaywheels.com.

6 is the New 10

by Joe LaMuraglia

The 2009 Mazda6, while all new, isn’t the first time Mazda has been a player in mid-size sedan segment. They’ve had contenders as far back as the late 80′s with the 626 and more recently with the last generation Mazda6. It is however, the first time that Mazda designed and built a midsized sedan specifically for the U.S. consumer. The last generation of the Mazda6 was a global car and had to meet the needs of consumers from various countries. As a result, it was smaller than its competitors and when you are thinking baby seats, baggage and American teenagers, bigger is better.

In addition to the size deficit, Mazda product planners identified two additional areas that needed improvement over the last generation 6: power and quality. So they set out to make a high-quality vehicle with efficient power in a roomier package. Luckily they paid attention to aesthetics as well because what emerged is a vehicle that met all their technical requirements and comes wrapped in gorgeous sheet metal that is unmistakably a Mazda.
Bigger
The new Mazda6 is bigger than the car it replaces. It has a 4.5-inch-longer wheelbase and a wider front and rear track. It is 6.1 inches longer and 2.3 inches wider than the last car and its trunk volume increased by almost 10 percent. The growth is evident when you enter the roomy cabin. Where the last car felt snug and sporty, the new Mazda6 has a more open feel with details and controls that still hint of its sporty nature. You can feel a real difference in the rear seat and the Mazda6 is now on par with the best in its class.

Badder
What’s more room with out some zoom? When they say that the Mazda6 got a complete makeover, that includes the engines as well. The new Mazda6 base “i” trim gets a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that has 170 horsepower while the new Mazda6 “s” trim gets the 3.7-liter V-6 from the CX-9 that produces 272 horsepower.
The base 4-cylinder is quite impressive and for those of you with sporty intentions, choose the standard 6-speed manual transmission. I drove it in the hills just north of Los Angeles and it is a fantastic package. If you want the efficiency of the 4-cylinder but don’t like to shift your stick, there is an optional 5-speed automatic available. Both get competitive fuel mileage with the manual rated at 20/29 city/hwy and the automatic at 21/30 city/hwy. Yes, you read that correctly, the automatic actually gets better MPG in this case.

For those of you that have to have the power, the V6 in the “s” trim is sublime. At 272 horsepower, it outguns the Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. On the road it pulls smoothly and with the manual shift mode in the automatic, is a blast on the curves and highway alike. It’s fuel economy is not at the head of the pack but it still achieves a respectable 17/25 city/hwy.
No matter what engine and transmission combination you get, the DNA of Mazda is evident. As Mazda says, Zoom-Zoom is bred, not born. They’ve done an awesome job creating a mid-size sedan with athletic handling, responsive steering, confident braking, and a well-controlled ride that is smooth when you want it and sporty when you need it. If you move up from a Mazda3 or a MX-5, you won’t be disappointed. If you migrate from an Accord or Camry you’ll rediscover the joys of driving.
Beautiful
The saying goes that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” but one might argue that there is such a thing as universal beauty as well. I’d use the second argument to describe the 2009 Mazda6. The designers have done an amazing job at making a gorgeous car that is clearly related to the rest of the Mazda lineup. There are very few lines to find fault with.
While there are many beautiful cars for sale, most have the luxury price tag attached to them. What is so unique about the Mazda6 is that they’ve made a vehicle in a very mainstream segment look so good. This is no shallow West Hollywood poser either. The beauty continues on in the interior with high quality materials, thoughtful design and intuitive controls.
Better?
The 2009 Mazda6 is bigger, badder and more beautiful than the car it replaces, that much is clear. But how does it compete on price and features? Starting at $18,550 for the 4-cylinder Mazda 6i with a manual transmission and easily topping $32,000 for a fully loaded V6 Mazda6s Grand Touring, there is a 6 to meet just about everyone’s price point. Those prices are inline with its competitors as well. While all but a few offer the litany of features like keyless entry, Bluetooth, satellite radio, remote start and Bose stereo, few can match the combination of style and driving pleasure. I’d say that the Mazda6 is the new “10″ for mid-size sedans.
Photography courtesy of Mazda

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Our Top 10 Most Researched Vehicles article is consistently the most popular article on the site. We are often asked why certain cars made it to the list and while we cannot get inside our users’ heads, we can make educated guesses. With that in mind, we asked our own Joe Tralongo to give his take on the Top 10 Most Researched:

Talking About the Top 10 Most Researched

by Joe Tralongo
If there’s one thing gays do well, it’s spend money. But before you spend it, you have to save it, which may account for the number of frugal cars that made Gaywheels.com’s Top Ten Most Researched list.
Number 1: Toyota Yaris

Toyota’s compact Yaris is the perfect date; it’s cute, cheap and eats like a bird. For the first time buyer, as well as those looking for a fuel-efficient second car, the Yaris offers legendary Toyota quality and reliability at a price just about anyone can afford. And when the affair ends, the Yaris’ excellent resale value won’t leave your wallet feeling robbed.
Number 2: Saab 9-3

Unless, like dear Patsy Stone, someone has locked you in a room the last ten years, you’ve probably noticed that gay men and women don’t do anything half heartedly, and we certainly hate blending in with the crowd. The same can be said for Saab’s 9-3 sedan and convertible, two unconventional alternatives to the myriad of Mercedes-Benz, Acura and BMW cars jamming the gay ghetto. We love them for their sleek design, super-comfy seats and such quirky oddities as the horizontally-mounted console ignition switch. The Saab 9-3 sedan and convertible are the quintessential non-conformist luxury cars.
Number 3: Mazda MX-5 Miata

No surprise here, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has been a darling of both the gay and straight worlds alike. This smartly styled roadster appeals to so many because it’s so easy to own. Somewhat snug, the Miata nevertheless makes the most of every inch of usable space including a surprisingly user-friendly trunk. The car’s light weight and 50/50 front-to-rear balance impart go-cart-like handling, making even the best sport sedan feel like a lead sled in comparison. One of the MX-5’s most attractive features, the convertible top, can be raised or lowered with one arm. Also, the brilliantly engineered hardtop model gives up no trunk space with the top down. Break out those hat boxes, boys, we’re going for a ride!
Number 4: Volkswagen Jetta

Something about a German car ignites the gay driving passion. Unfortunately, something about the steep price tag keeps many at bay. Volkswagen’s Jetta breaks the budget barrier by offering the only sub-$20,000 German sedan available in the USA. The Jetta’s popularity stems from the interior’s Audi-like attention to detail and comfort and the uber-exciting ride. The 2.0-liter turbo pulls like a V6, achieves excellent fuel economy and can be had with a manual or automatic transmission. Later in the 2008 model year, the fuel-efficient TDI diesel returns offering fuel economy no gasoline engine can touch.
Number 5: Volkswagen EOS

Huh, what do you know? Another convertible! OK, so we like the wind in our hair (or wigs) and the sun on our faces, although not so much sun as to cause premature wrinkles. The VW Eos succeeds the only convertible gayer than the MX-5 Miata, the long loved Cabriolet. Quick on its feet and endowed with the same upscale interior as the Jetta, the Eos is the prima donna of the topless set. Its outrageous retractable hardtop includes a built-in sunroof so you can still enjoy open air driving without retracting the power top, which proves useful because unlike the MX-5 Miata, the Eos’ power top eats up considerable trunk space.
Number 6: Dodge Caliber

The Dodge Caliber’s appearance midway down the list proves gay and lesbian car buyers don’t exclude domestics when they merit attention. The Caliber’s low base price certainly is part of its appeal, but innovative features like an available flip-down rear speaker bar (perfect for tailgating at the beach), center armrest iPod holder and a “Chill-Zone” cooled storage bin speak to the creative gay nature. From a practical standpoint, the Caliber offers a wide choice of optional features including all-wheel-drive. With room for four, an upright driving position and an exterior design worthy of the term “muscular”, the Dodge Caliber knows how to show a gay a good time.
Number 7: Toyota Camry

Not all gays are glamour queens. Some actually prefer sensibility to sensuality, although all bets are off once the weekend rolls around. Toyota’s Camry proves the logical choice for those who view their car as a means of transportation and not a fashion accessory. Far from dowdy, indeed the 2008 model is probably one of the best looking cars every to where Camry badge. Strong reliability and resale figures complement a quiet cabin, silky smooth engine and excellent fuel economy. Room for five, a huge trunk and an optional equipment list reaching dangerously close to Lexus-level luxury keep the Camry high on the Rainbow Radar!
Number 8: Audi A3

The A3 is one of Europe’s most popular cars, yet Americans are just getting their first hard look at Audi’s entry-level hatchback. The gay community is familiar with the A3 because many have rented one when traveling overseas. The American version is a bit plusher (and more expensive) than its European cousin and it runs on gasoline, not diesel. The A3’s strong showing puts to rest the notion that gay Americans won’t buy premium hatchbacks. Wrong! What we won’t buy are ugly, overpriced and underpowered hatchbacks… and cheap shoes. Although the A3 shares a common platform and engine with the Volkswagen GTI, it offers many features unavailable on the VW, including a V6 engine, quattro all-wheel drive, a huge “Open Sky” glass sunroof and the undeniable status provided by Audi’s four-ring logo.

Number 9: Volkswagen Rabbit

Another VW makes the list, this time the Rabbit. Formerly known as the Golf, the Rabbit is far more reliable then the original Teutonic fur ball, a car (for those of us old enough to remember) with a somewhat jaded past. Although priced slightly higher than the competition from Japan and Korea, the Rabbit offers a lot in the way of standard equipment, safety, comfort and performance. And then there’s the whole German car thing again.
Number 10: Infiniti FX

The FX is one of Infiniti’s most beautiful vehicles, a fact born out by its ability to make our Top Ten list after five-years on the market. Part SUV, part sport sedan, the aggressive FX looks like nothing else on the road, and its interior still makes us giddy. Never mind the small cargo space and even smaller cargo opening, pay no attention to the claustrophobic rear seats or nearly non-existent rear visibility, its all about good looks and great performance. Sure a nicely loaded version costs north of $40,000, and that’s just for the V6 model, but did we mention the killer Bose audio, stunning metallic paint options and optional 20-inch wheels? Yeah, it’s worth it.

Zooming Right on Down the Road

by Scott Corlett

Mazda is a cute and quirky little car company. With less than two percent of automotive sales in the United States, the executives at Mazda long ago realized that the company could never follow a GM “car for every purse and purpose” strategy. In 2000, building on the company’s past success with performance vehicles such as the venerable RX-7, Mazda officially hitched its fortunes to the sport segment when its marketing people adopted the seductive tagline “Zoom-Zoom.” Given this, when we heard that Mazda planned to launch a seven-passenger crossover SUV, a barrel of Botox couldn’t have smoothed the wrinkles from our forehead. How, we wondered, could an auto company put the zoom-zoom in a vehicle the size of a Ford Explorer?

In January, Gaywheels.com was invited to test drive the new 2007 Mazda CX-9. After a breakfast and a presentation by the Mazda team in the swank bowels of the Beverly Hilton, we went to the rooftop of the hotel’s parking structure and checked out the big boys. All the rage among families with young ones, third-row seating was the predicate for the CX-9’s size and design. At nearly two hundred inches in length, the CX-9 is longer than an Explorer, a Honda Pilot, or a Volvo XC90. This translates into superb legroom for all rows—even the back bench of the CX-9 is good for those who wear shoes larger than a size two. Moreover, here’s half the zoom-zoom: even at this grand scale, the CX-9—due to its sleek, ready-to-spring stance—looks much smaller and more agile than any of its third-row brethren. The stars who live just up the palm-bordered boulevards from this hotel pay big bucks for that nifty trick.

We climbed into a blue beauty, a CX-9 in midlevel trim equipped with front-wheel drive and painted Mazda’s fab Stormy Blue Mica. After a short stint on a freeway filled with ever-driving Angelenos, we exited for a canyon run in the hills outside the city. As we slalomed through turn after tight turn among the California gold of rock and dried brush, we quickly forgot about the 130-odd inches of metal, glass, and leather behind us. The CX-9 remained flat and steady through the curves, even when we pushed hard enough to activate the lenient Dynamic Stability Control system. Coming out of the turns, the sole-offered powertrain—a 250-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission—returned the CX-9 to speed without the excessive fanfare of sharp shifts or loud rev noise. On that hilly, twisty road, to an accompaniment of drive music chosen by the folks at Mazda and piped from an iPod Shuffle through the CX-9’s optional, 11-speaker Bose stereo, we found the second half of the zoom-zoom.

After lunch, we hopped into a CX-9 with top-end trim and all-wheel drive. En route back into town, on the battered concrete of the infamous 405 stop-and-go, the smoking-hot 20-inch tires, which are standard on this trim, did their best to smooth the craters and bumps. As we approached a freeway junction, the Friday-afternoon traffic slowed to a standstill due to a construction crane that had fallen over the roadway. This might have been just another day in the Valley, but we ran a finger over the touch screen of the optional Navigation system and found a new route over the star-studded hills to the hotel. In the CX-9, there are plenty of these mostly optional gadgets to aid drivers and quiet kids: a backup cam; a nine-inch, rear-seat DVD screen; and one of the best keyless entry/ignition systems on the market (with a wallet card instead of a bulky fob—like, duh). Alas, surprisingly in a vehicle of this size, the CX-9 has no front and rear parking assist other than the helpful, but insufficient backend cam.

We pulled up to the valet stand at the hotel, and our door was whisked open by one of those Hollywood service employees whose skin and smile are so flawless that his big break can’t be far down the road. We gave a final look around the CX-9’s richly appointed cabin, at its polished wood, supple leather, and pleasing synthetics. Then, we jumped out and smiled at the valet. Zoom-Zoom.

Trim Base Price (FWD)
Sport $29,630
Touring $31,730
Grand Touring $33,270

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Hard or Soft – It’s a Blast to Drive

We here at Gaywheels.com have a soft spot for the Miata…I mean, the MX-5. In fact, the new 2006 MX-5 was the first test car we drove after relocating to Atlanta. It is a fun-to-drive, relatively practical and affordable roadster that some thought couldn’t get much better. Well, we are here to tell you that the engineers at Mazda have outdone themselves with the Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) option.

Retractable hard top vehicles are suddenly popping up everywhere in our market. Like other technologies, it started at the high-end (Cadillac XLR, Mercedes-Benz SL500) and is slowly moving its way down market (Volvo C70, VW Eos, Pontiac G6). Now, with the MX-5 PRHT, you can play both ways without breaking the bank. Starting at $24,350 the MX-5 PRHT is the least expensive hard-top convertible on the market.
Price isn’t the only thing that differentiates this vehicle from its peers. It is also the fastest acting retractable hard top on the market. It goes through its dance in 12 seconds. All you have to do is unlatch the top and press a button, 12 seconds later you are al fresco and ready to enjoy the impeccable driving dynamics of the MX-5. You can see a short video below featuring our test car. Our apologies for the quality.

Not to shabby, is it? You may not be able to tell from the video but there is yet another feature that makes this vehicle so interesting. On other convertibles with retractable hard tops, the roof ends up in the trunk when all is said and done. That means there isn’t much space for much else in the trunk when the top is down. Our friends at Mazda thought that taking away the trunk was not an option and they designed the hard top to fit in the exact space as the soft top version. So, even with the top down, the MX-5 has a trunk with enough room for a few duffle bags or few day’s worth of groceries.
As a friend who has owned many Miata’s said “they made the best even better”.

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WEEEEEEEE! (Gasp for air) WEEEEEEE!

By Cocoa Efficient

Although the term “pocket-rocket” seems like a shoe-in as something thought up by the gay community, when used properly it describes a small but speedy car. It’s a clever nickname given to cars such as the Honda Civic Si and VW GTI, but seems wholly inadequate when applied to the 263-horsepower MAZDASPEED3. I think something like “pocket-ICBM” might better suit this little five-door terror. For the record, MAZDASPEED is Mazda’s in-house racing technology division. Every so often, Mazda throws them a bone and they turn it into Filet Mignon.

Placed side-by-side, the differences between the Mazda3 and MAZDASPEED3 are instantly visible. The MAZDASPEED3 is more aggressive up front, with a larger grille and lower air intake (the later needed to help shuttle air to the intercooler), a raised dome hood and wider fenders. The expanded wheel openings house stylish 18-inch wheels surrounded by high-performance tires, while around back an exaggerated spoiler is prominently affixed atop the hatch. Unseen changes include additional bracing for improved rigidity (remember girls, stiffer is better) and bigger brakes for improved stopping power. The upgraded interior features a set of thickly bolstered front seats, aluminum foot pedals and a six-speed manual shift knob.

While the cosmetic changes make the MAZDASPEED3 look and feel better than Belgian chocolate poured over fresh strawberries, none make the MAZDASPEED3 go faster. A brilliant 2.3-liter turbocharged direct injection four-cylinder mated to a short-throw six-speed manual transmission receives that honor. Considering the stock 2.3-liter in the Mazda3 pumps out 155 horsepower, the jump to 263 is nothing short of amazing. Billed as one of the fastest front-wheel drive cars on the planet, the MAZDASPEED3 can leap from zero to 60 in less than six seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph. Zippity-Do-Da indeed!
Whenever this much power pours into a car’s front wheels, a syndrome known as torque steer (excessive wheel spin and pulling to one side) inevitably occurs. To minimize torque steer, the MAZDASPEED engineers employ a two-prong strategy by combining a limited-slip differential with an advanced Powertrain Control Module, or PCM. The PCM works by bleeding off added pressure at the turbo, thus controlling torque spike in first and second gear. The system works well under most conditions, but it’s not foolproof.

Now I know what you’re all thinking. “Enough tech talk, bitch, how does the damn car drive?” Well, the answer is “Like a bat out of hell.” The MAZDASPEED3’s turbo spools up quickly and rockets the tachometer to red line almost as quickly as one can change gears. Handling is taut and very tractable thanks to the enhanced suspension and wide tires, but the ride is far from compliant, especially over uneven or choppy pavement. The high interior sound levels result from a combination of increased tire noise and a booming exhaust note. For 20-somethings and true driving enthusiasts, the added decibels won’t be a distraction, but this fermented plum prefers piano bars to punk rock, and so the MAZDASPEED3 is bit too loud to be my daily driver.

Regardless of these minor complaints, one can’t quibble with the MAZDASPEED3’s price. Offered in two trims, Sport and Grand Touring, the MAZDASPEED3 starts at just $22,800, which includes destination, and when fully loaded with leather seats, Bose audio, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, DVD Navigation, xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers and automatic climate control, tops out around $27,000. The only feature not available to the MAZDASPEED3 is a power sunroof, which would undermine the car’s rigid frame.
Now for the bad news; Mazda plans to build 5000 cars this year, barely enough to meet the demands of Southern California, let alone the entire country. If you want a MAZDASPEED3, you’d better reserve one quick because just like virginity, when they’re gone, they’re gone.

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The Second Coming of the Crossover

By Miss Cocoa Efficient
If you read my articles on a regular basis, you’ve probably noticed how I gush, fawn and go generally gaga over Mazda products. In the interest of full disclosure, I must tell you here and now I am the proud owner of a bright red Mazda3 Grand Touring; it’s one of the best cars I’ve ever owned and I make no apologies for my obvious bias. Of course, my love for Mazda cars goes beyond their shapely exteriors and spirited driving dynamics, as any good image coach will tell you, exterior looks are dandy but it’s what’s inside that counts.
How many times have you spotted the man of your dreams at the gym, all muscled up and looking like a bronze Adonis, only to find out he’s as shallow as Ann Coulter’s compassion pond and equally dim-witted? It’s the same with cars, because while good looks count for something they are not everything. Honestly, who cares if a car is an undisputed head turner if once inside you find yourself surrounded by a lack luster design and Wal-Mart quality plastics? This, my little status seekers, is why I love Mazda products. No matter what the car, be it the entry-level Mazda3 or the racy RX-8, Mazda makes certain the interiors are modern, functional and artfully crafted, which brings us to the subject of this review: the new Mazda CX-7 crossover SUV.

For those unfamiliar with the term, a crossover combines the best attributes of an SUV (roomy cargo hold and a commanding view of the road) with the ride, handling and fuel economy of a mid-size sedan. It’s a common sense package that is as easy on the eyes as it is on Mother Earth. The CX-7 is a sleek five-passenger crossover with a gorgeous interior, a long list of standard and optional features and a price starting below $25,000. If there is one thing Cocoa Efficient loves more than chocolate, muscle men and chocolate covered muscle men, it’s a bargain!
When looking at the CX-7, the windshield’s dramatic rake immediately catches the eye. Angled at a 66-degree incline, the CX-7’s windshield and sleek front end combine to create a look that is more sports car than family hauler, exactly the image Mazda wants the CX-7 to portray. The sides reveal enough curves and bulges to put Mae West to shame and although a gently rising beltline is usually something to be feared by gay men, on the CX-7 it’s a quite appealing. Mazda finishes off the sporty look with a stylish set of 18-inch alloy rims surrounded by P235/60R18 all-season tires.
The CX-7’s wide door openings and low step-in height make it easy for people of all shapes and sizes to enter and exit, even when wearing a full-length sequined gown and moderately sized tiara. The “look at me and my fat white ass” routine we’ve all suffered while bending over to release the rear seatbacks is a thing of the past thanks to a clever release mechanisms located near the hatch opening. The flip up rear liftgate reveals a large cargo hold with a level loading floor because Mazda knows how much we homos have to pack when traveling.

The CX-7’s cockpit easily rivals more expensive vehicles such as the Infiniti FX35 and Lexus RX 330. A variation on the traditional Mazda three-ring instrument cluster features a center-mounted speedometer flanked by a smaller tachometer, fuel and temperature gauges. The three-spoke steering wheel is lifted straight from the MX-5 (formerly known as the Miata) and features redundant controls for the audio as well as the cruise control. Seating is firm and supportive up front and rear seat passengers are treated to spacious area with plenty of head, hip and legroom. A neat feature is the rear seat’s ability to fold without the need to remove the headrests. My test vehicle, a fully-loaded Grand Touring, included an amazing nine-speaker Bose surround sound audio system, touch-screen DVD navigation, a rear back-up camera monitor, heated leather front seats and a keyless entry and start system allowing the user to start the engine from outside the vehicle as well as roll up the front windows and open or close the power glass sunroof.
Power for the CX-7 comes from a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 244 horsepower. Mazda’s six-speed Sport AT automatic transmission includes a manual shift mode which allows the driver to shift up or down without having to depress a clutch pedal. All three models are pulled by their front wheels but offer the option of part-time four-wheel drive (the system is activated only in the event of wheel slippage and cannot be permanently engaged). While the 2.3-liter turbo provides quick off-the-line starts, it is somewhat sluggish when it comes to high-speed passing. Mash your foot to the floor and you find yourself waiting for the transmission to kick down and the turbocharger to reach its maximum output before the CX-7 can make its move. A V6 probably would provide more low-end torque, but would also consume more fuel. Besides, the all-aluminum four-cylinder engine yields an important benefit not associated with speed but rather with handling.

Remember when you were a kid and you had a little red wagon? You’d ride in the back while up front sat your pudgy little friend, Timmy. Down the hill you’d go, picking up speed at breakneck pace until the realization of the impending left turn dawned on the both of you. Desperate attempts by Timmy to turn the wagon met with defeat because the position of his big butt directly over the wheels responsible for steering made it impossible to do anything except plow forward. A set of black rubber skid marks disappearing into an unfriendly clump of prickle bushes and poison ivy marked the final resting spot of you, Timmy and the little red wagon that couldn’t. If only you’d switched places with Timmy the odds of negotiating the curve would have improved dramatically. The same fundamentals that doomed your wagon apply to modern day automobiles, which is why with less weight over the front wheels the Mazda CX-7 achieves a more balanced front-to-rear weight ratio helping to deliver better handling and improved steering response.

Needless to say, the CX-7 delivers an impressive driving experience far exceeding the ride and handling of the average truck-based SUV. Its steering is precise and on center and the suspension effortlessly soaks up road blemishes and expansion joints while returning the type of driving experience you’d expect from a sport sedan. In addition to the superb suspension geometry, Mazda tosses in a number of electronic safety measures such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), traction control and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes.
The CX-7 is designed to serve many masters, from SUV owners seeking a reduction in size as well as fuel costs, to wagon lovers needing a bit more room. With its sharp styling, capable road manners and affordable price tag, the CX-7 should have no problem reaching its projected sales goal of 40,000 units. Put this SUV at the top of your shopping list and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

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Compact Curves

By Axel Rod

I like my cars simple, yet stylish. I’m perfectly happy with a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission, a great set of sport seats, ice-cold A/C and a killer stereo. Toss in razor-sharp handling, a premium interior and a kick-ass exterior and I’m all over the car like a cheap suit. If you’re like me, or just looking for a vehicle that’s affordable yet doesn’t scream “99-cent store”, you need to test drive the new Mazda3.

The Mazda Mazda3 may have a redundant name, but everything else about the car is fresh and new. My test car was a brilliant Strato Mica blue Mazda3 s five-door hatch with a manual transmission. The car took my breath away, I couldn’t get over the sexy body and the acute attention to detail. From the racy 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels to the integrated chin and rear spoilers, my Mazda3 looked totally customized. The Mazda3 sits low to the ground with its wheels pushed to the far corners, a design that both increases interior room and improves stability. Optional projector-style HID headlights flank a color-keyed grille punctuated by a prominent center-mounted chrome Mazda emblem.

As thrilled as I’m by the Mazda3’s exterior, I’m blown away by what I see inside. Nicely-bolstered cloth seats with blue and black inserts invite me to stay a while. They feel great, with good thigh support and a driver’s side manual lumbar adjustment. A quick check of the passenger seat shows no lumbar or height adjustment, a major boo-boo in this boy’s book. The passenger should always be as comfortable as the driver. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and are configured in a 60/40 split, allowing increased cargo capacity while still providing room for one or two passengers. Maximum cargo space is provided with both seats folded down, creating a flat, but somewhat elevated floor.

From the driver’s seat, I’m treated to a modern dash with a three-pod instrument cluster that first glows blue then vivid orange as the ignition key is turned (i trims get a less flashy black and white display). The three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel holds fingertip controls for the cruise control and audio functions, including volume, station/track select and mute. A quick glance to the right reveals another glowing orange instrument panel displaying readouts for audio, inside temperature and vent position.  At the bottom of the stack are three rotary knobs surrounded by lighted orange trim rings that operate the heating-ventilation-air conditioning system.

I found only two bones of contention with the Mazda3’s interior. First, the placement of the gas pedal caused my right leg to constantly rub against the wide center console. The second is a bit more annoying and has to do with the audio system. Anyone who knows 20-something year-olds knows that a car’s audio system is every bit as important as its zero to sixty time. The Mazda3’s integrated audio system looks cool, but offers mediocre sound without much power. The unique shape of the radio makes upgrading to an aftermarket din or double din stereo difficult, and the factory unit does not have pre-amp out jacks, negating the possibility of an easy amplifier and speaker upgrade. At least there is an MP3 capable CD player on the options list. iPod fans can use a cassette adaptor to play their favorite tunes through the optional cassette deck. For die-hard audiophiles, check out Mazda3Forums.com to see how others have upgraded their systems.

Once on the road, Mazda3 performs brilliantly. The handling is sharp and direct; the feedback to the steering wheel and brakes devoid of numbness or disconnect. The short-throw five-speed manual moves quickly from gate to gate with little effort. For those who don’t care for the manual, Mazda offers a four-speed automatic with manual shift capability. The Mazda3 shares its basic chassis with the Volvo S40, giving it a solidity and rigidness you won’t find when driving a Nissan Sentra or Honda Civic. Despite the sport suspension’s stiff settings, the Mazda3 returns a surprisingly smooth ride, even over shoddy pavement. Acceleration with the 2.3-liter engine is good, but with only 160 horsepower, the Mazda3 feels a bit slow off the line. Further hampering things is a lack of low-end torque (torque being the rotational force needed to turn the wheels quickly). Once up to speed, the Mazda3 hums along just fine, with little noise or vibration entering the cabin. Fuel consumption is rated at 25 city/32 hwy, another bonus in a world of ever-increasing gas prices.

The entry-level Mazda3 i is offered only in sedan form and carries an MSRP of $14,420 (which includes destination). Standard equipment includes a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter engine, five-speed manual transmission, four-wheel disc brakes, dual side mirrors, AM/FM stereo with CD, tilt/telescopic steering wheel (you can adjust angle and distance from the driver), cloth seats and intermittent wipers. There are a number of options, including the $800 ABS & Airbag package adding anti-lock brakes and side airbag curtains, and the $1,400 Power Package that includes power windows, power locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, alloy wheels, cruise control and a power driver’s seat. The Power Package requires the $850 air conditioning upgrade.

For about the same price as a loaded Mazda3 i you can get the Mazda3 s, which comes pretty nicely equipped and includes a more powerful 2.3-liter engine, upgraded cloth seats, available leather seating ($590), HID headlights ($700) and DVD navigation ($1,750), which you won’t find on any other compact sedan in this price range. Check every option box for the Mazda3 s sedan and the MSRP barely breaks $23,000. And since no gay man or woman in their right mind pays retail, you can expect that figure to drop by about $1,200.  To help you negotiate a good price, check Edmunds.com to learn the car’s invoice price as well as what consumers are actually paying.

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Mazda6 Sedan Goes Boy Racer!

By Gaywheels.com Staff

Gaywheels.com staffers had the opportunity to drive a flashy Velocity Red Mica 2006 Mazda MAZDASPEED6 Grand Touring, which definitely turned a lot of heads here in Atlanta.   The Mazdaspeed6 comes in 2 trim levels, either the Sport or the Grand Touring.  The Grand Touring is the top of the line and adds leather trimmed seats, 8-way power driver’ seat and advanced keyless entry/start system over the Sport version.  Since, the Gaywheels.com boys love the feel of leather, we opt for the Grand Touring model! 

Our Grand Touring tester was fully loaded with a sticker price of $33,325 including destination.  It had the only two major options available, a $700 power moonroof and a $2,000 Navigation system, plus a cargo net at $40, alarm upgrade at $60 and wheel locks at $40.  Unfortunately with the Sport model, the power moonroof is not an available option, another reason to opt for the Grand Touring version.  Sirius Satellite Radio is available on both models.

The Mazdaspeed6 is equipped with an aluminum alloy 2.3-liter 16-valve turbo-charged 4-cylinder engine with 274 horsepower and 280 Lb. ft. of torque.  This peaky 4-banger comes mated to a close ratio 6-speed manual transmission  -  no automatic is offered.  This equates to 0-60 time at just under the 6 second mark  -  not quite Subaru WRX territory but then again, the MAZDASPEED6 is targeted to a slightly difference audience where performance and some practicality must be taken into the equation.  It can handle four full-size boys and their Gucci bags for a spirited weekend drive to the desert/mountains/beach, whichever is your pleasure.

Along with the incredibly powerful engine, Mazda has added an all-wheel drive system to complete the package.  As the gods would have it, there was some inclement weather in Atlanta during our time with the Mazdaspeed6 which gave us an opportunity to test the entire package.  The combination of the all-wheel drive system, engine RPM sensitive steering, enhanced suspension components, limited slip differential and the standard 18-inch wheels made this vehicle a confident handler, weather be damned.  It was, however, sometimes a bit too firm for bumpy roads (or our ageing behinds!).

The vehicle was loaded with a laundry list of standard features including airbags galore: dual front airbags, side airbags and side curtain airbags.  Standard 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake assist and traction control were also standard equipment.  A comprehensive list of standard comfort features is included: automatic climate control, 3-spoke leather steering wheel with radio/cruise buttons with tilt and telescopic adjustments, leather wrapped gear shift and parking brake, power windows with 4-window auto up/down feature, BOSE ® 7-speaker 200 watt stereo with in dash 6 CD changer.  The Grand Touring also came with heated leather seats, but staffers found the location of the heated seat switches to be difficult to see and operate.  The navigation controls were also in an odd location which made using the system less than enjoyable.

Bottom line: Mazda has done a fine job of adding a speed racer feel to the Mazda6 without overloading the vehicle with too many spoilers and airdams.  It is a more mature alternative to the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and Subaru WRX. 

Likes:                      

• Horsepower –fast – 274 horsepower out of a 4-cylinder engine
• Vehicle size – was able to fit 4 very comfortable
• Looks and styling – looks very good in red and it is not overdone with spoilers
• All-wheel drive – felt very safe on the wet road conditions and added to excellent handling capabilities
• Manual transmission – smooth with tight gear ratios
• Exhaust note!

Dislikes:       

• Clutch:  It was difficult to engage smoothly
• Suspension – sometimes too firm on bumpy roads
• Ergonomics – Location of heated seat switches
• Navigation system – did not like the remote control functionality
• Two-tone black & white leather interior – would opt for the solid black leather.

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