Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring, a car that perfectly blends style, performance, and practicality. If you're curious about what this trim level offers in terms of horsepower and overall performance, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from engine specs to driving dynamics, so you can get a clear picture of what makes this car a standout choice. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or just starting to explore your options, this in-depth look will provide valuable insights. Let's get started and explore the exciting features of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring!

Engine and Horsepower

The heart of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is its impressive engine. This model typically comes equipped with a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine. This engine is designed to deliver a balance of power and efficiency, making it a great choice for daily driving and longer road trips. Specifically, this engine churns out around 184 horsepower. That's a respectable figure for a compact car, providing plenty of pep for merging onto highways, overtaking other vehicles, and generally enjoying a spirited driving experience. The engine also produces about 185 lb-ft of torque, which contributes to its responsive acceleration. What's particularly noteworthy about the SKYACTIV-G engine is its focus on fuel efficiency. Mazda has incorporated various technologies to optimize combustion and reduce internal friction, resulting in impressive gas mileage figures. You can expect to get around 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, making it an economical choice for those who want both power and efficiency. In real-world driving, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring feels lively and engaging. The engine responds quickly to throttle inputs, and the car accelerates smoothly and confidently. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the open road, the engine provides ample power for a variety of driving situations. The combination of horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency makes the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring a well-rounded performer in its class. So, if you're looking for a car that offers a fun and efficient driving experience, the Mazda 3 Grand Touring is definitely worth considering.

Performance Features

Beyond just the engine, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring boasts a range of features that enhance its overall performance. One of the key elements is Mazda's SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission. This transmission is engineered to provide quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both acceleration and fuel efficiency. It offers a more direct and connected feel compared to traditional automatic transmissions, making the driving experience more engaging. For those who prefer more control, a manual transmission is also available, allowing drivers to fully engage with the engine's powerband. Another notable feature is the G-Vectoring Control (GVC) system. GVC is designed to improve handling and stability by subtly adjusting engine torque in response to steering inputs. This results in smoother and more confident cornering, especially on winding roads. The system is virtually imperceptible to the driver, but its effects are noticeable in the car's improved stability and responsiveness. The suspension system of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is tuned to provide a balance of comfort and handling. It effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, while also maintaining good body control in corners. This makes the car comfortable for daily commutes and enjoyable for weekend drives. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. This contributes to the car's overall feeling of agility and responsiveness. The braking system is also well-designed, providing strong and consistent stopping power. The brakes are easy to modulate, allowing for smooth and controlled stops in various driving conditions. Overall, the performance features of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring work together to create a fun and engaging driving experience. The combination of a responsive engine, smooth transmission, and well-tuned suspension makes this car a joy to drive in a variety of situations.

Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what it's really like to get behind the wheel of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring. The driving experience is where this car truly shines. From the moment you slide into the driver's seat, you'll notice the attention to detail and the focus on creating a comfortable and engaging environment. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing good comfort for both short trips and long journeys. The interior is well-designed, with high-quality materials and a clean, modern aesthetic. The controls are logically laid out and easy to use, making it simple to adjust the car's settings and access its various features. On the road, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring feels confident and composed. The engine provides ample power for most driving situations, and the car accelerates smoothly and responsively. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. This makes it easy to place the car exactly where you want it on the road. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride. However, it's also firm enough to provide good body control in corners, making the car feel stable and planted. One of the standout features of the driving experience is the G-Vectoring Control system. This system subtly adjusts engine torque in response to steering inputs, which helps to improve handling and stability. The system is virtually imperceptible to the driver, but its effects are noticeable in the car's improved cornering ability. Overall, the driving experience of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is one of its strongest selling points. The car is fun to drive, comfortable, and well-composed, making it a great choice for a variety of drivers. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or taking a weekend road trip, the Mazda 3 Grand Touring is sure to impress.

Interior and Technology

Moving inside, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring doesn't disappoint, offering a blend of comfort, style, and technology. The interior is thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials and a focus on driver ergonomics. The seats are typically leather-trimmed, providing a premium feel and enhanced comfort. The driver's seat often includes power adjustments and lumbar support, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The dashboard and door panels are adorned with soft-touch materials, adding to the overall sense of quality. The layout of the controls is intuitive and easy to use, with everything within easy reach of the driver. The center console features a rotary dial that controls the infotainment system, which is a user-friendly alternative to a touchscreen. In terms of technology, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring comes well-equipped. It typically includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, which is used to control the audio system, navigation, and other vehicle functions. The infotainment system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car. Other standard technology features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system. Some models may also include advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The interior of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is designed to be a comfortable and inviting space. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing good comfort for both short trips and long journeys. The cabin is also relatively quiet, thanks to Mazda's efforts to reduce road noise and wind noise. Overall, the interior and technology of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring are well-executed, providing a premium and user-friendly experience.

Fuel Economy

One of the most appealing aspects of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is its excellent fuel economy. Thanks to Mazda's SKYACTIV technology, this car is able to deliver impressive gas mileage without sacrificing performance. The 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine is designed to be both powerful and efficient, making it a great choice for drivers who want the best of both worlds. According to EPA estimates, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring gets around 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. These figures are quite impressive for a car in this class, and they can save you a significant amount of money on gas over the long term. Of course, actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and the conditions in which you drive. However, even under less-than-ideal conditions, the Mazda 3 Grand Touring is likely to deliver respectable gas mileage. One of the key factors that contributes to the car's fuel efficiency is its lightweight design. Mazda has used lightweight materials throughout the car's construction, which helps to reduce its overall weight. This, in turn, improves fuel economy and handling. Another factor is the car's aerodynamic design. Mazda has carefully shaped the body of the Mazda 3 Grand Touring to minimize wind resistance, which also helps to improve fuel economy. In addition to its efficient engine and lightweight design, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring also includes a number of other features that help to improve fuel economy. These include an automatic start/stop system, which shuts off the engine when the car is stopped, and a fuel-efficient transmission. Overall, the fuel economy of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is one of its strongest selling points. If you're looking for a car that is both fun to drive and easy on the wallet, the Mazda 3 Grand Touring is definitely worth considering.

Reliability and Safety

When considering a vehicle like the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring, reliability and safety are paramount. Fortunately, this model excels in both areas, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. Mazda has a strong reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the 2017 Mazda 3 is no exception. According to various consumer reports and reliability surveys, the Mazda 3 typically scores well in terms of dependability and long-term ownership satisfaction. This means that you can expect the car to hold up well over time, with minimal maintenance and repair costs. In terms of safety, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These features include advanced airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control. In addition to these standard safety features, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring may also include optional advanced safety technologies such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the car's surroundings and provide alerts or assistance to the driver in potentially dangerous situations. The 2017 Mazda 3 has also performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In NHTSA testing, the Mazda 3 earned a 5-star overall safety rating, which is the highest possible score. In IIHS testing, the Mazda 3 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award, which is also the highest possible honor. Overall, the reliability and safety of the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring are excellent. This car is built to last and is equipped with a wide range of safety features to protect occupants in the event of a collision. If you're looking for a reliable and safe car, the Mazda 3 Grand Touring is definitely worth considering.

Conclusion

So, to wrap it all up, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a compact car that offers a blend of performance, style, and practicality. With its 184 horsepower engine, sporty handling, and comfortable interior, this car is a joy to drive. Plus, its excellent fuel economy and strong reliability ratings make it a smart financial decision as well. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or taking a road trip, the 2017 Mazda 3 Grand Touring is sure to impress. It's a well-rounded vehicle that offers something for everyone, from driving enthusiasts to budget-conscious consumers. If you're in the market for a new car, be sure to give the Mazda 3 Grand Touring a look. You might just find that it's the perfect car for you. Thanks for reading, and happy driving!