Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs. This model year holds a special place in the hearts of many, and for good reason. The Mazda 3 s Sport offered a fantastic blend of sporty performance, stylish design, and everyday practicality. We'll be breaking down everything you need to know about this popular compact car, from its engine options and fuel efficiency to its interior features and safety ratings. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Unpacking the Engine and Performance of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport

When we talk about the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs, the first thing that usually comes to mind is what's under the hood. Mazda offered a couple of engine choices for this model. The 's' in the name signifies the Sport trim. The sport model boasted a more powerful engine, a 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a real gem, delivering a peppy 156 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. This meant the Mazda 3 s Sport could zip around town with ease and even hold its own on the highway. This engine provided a driving experience that was both engaging and efficient, perfect for those who enjoyed a bit of spirited driving. The 2.3-liter engine was paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission, as you might expect, offered a more direct and connected driving experience, allowing you to wring out every last bit of performance from the engine. The automatic transmission, on the other hand, was a great choice for those who preferred a more relaxed driving experience. Both transmissions were well-regarded for their smooth operation and responsiveness. The performance specs of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport were pretty impressive for its class. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.9 seconds with the manual transmission, making it one of the quicker cars in its segment. The car's handling was also a standout feature. The Mazda 3 s Sport featured a sport-tuned suspension, which provided a firm but comfortable ride and excellent cornering ability. The steering was precise and responsive, giving the driver a real sense of control. This combination of a powerful engine, responsive transmission, and well-tuned suspension made the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport a joy to drive, and it's a major reason why it remains popular today. The Mazda 3 s Sport also offered good fuel economy for its time. With the 2.3-liter engine, it achieved an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the automatic transmission, and slightly better with the manual. This made it a practical choice for daily commuting and longer road trips. When we consider the performance aspects of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs, it's clear that Mazda aimed to create a car that was fun to drive, fuel-efficient, and practical, all in one package. It succeeded brilliantly, which is why it continues to be a favorite among car enthusiasts looking for a reliable and engaging compact car.

Transmission Options and Performance Metrics

Let's go a bit deeper into the transmission and the numbers. As mentioned, the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport came with two transmission options. The five-speed manual transmission offered a more engaging experience, giving drivers complete control over gear changes and allowing them to extract maximum performance from the engine. The manual transmission was well-regarded for its precise shifts and solid feel, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The five-speed automatic transmission, on the other hand, provided a smoother and more convenient driving experience, especially in city traffic. The automatic transmission featured a sport mode, which sharpened throttle response and held gears longer, adding a bit more excitement to the driving experience. The performance metrics of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport were pretty respectable for its class. As mentioned before, the car could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.9 seconds with the manual transmission. The automatic version was slightly slower, but still offered brisk acceleration. Top speed was electronically limited to around 130 mph, which was more than enough for everyday driving. The braking performance was also noteworthy. The Mazda 3 s Sport came equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, which provided confident stopping power. The brakes were also fade-resistant, meaning they maintained their effectiveness even during repeated hard braking. The Mazda 3 s Sport's performance, as you can see, was not just about straight-line speed; it was about the overall driving experience. The combination of a powerful engine, responsive transmission options, and well-tuned suspension created a car that was fun to drive, easy to handle, and capable of delivering a satisfying driving experience in a variety of conditions. All these features made the car a strong competitor in the compact car segment.

Interior and Exterior Features of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport

Now, let's peek inside and out to see what makes the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs stand out from the crowd. The exterior design of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport was a real head-turner. It featured Mazda's signature sporty styling, with a sleek and aerodynamic profile. The car's lines were clean and modern, and the overall design exuded a sense of energy and dynamism. The Sport trim came with some distinctive features, such as a rear spoiler and unique alloy wheels, which further enhanced its sporty appearance. The interior of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport was equally impressive. It featured a well-designed and functional cabin, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout. The seats were comfortable and supportive, providing excellent comfort even on long drives. The dashboard and center console were well-organized, with all the controls and instruments within easy reach. The car's interior also featured a good amount of space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats offered ample legroom for adults, and the trunk provided plenty of storage space for luggage and other items. The 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs were packed with features. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and door locks, a premium sound system, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and a navigation system. The car also offered a range of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, airbags, and electronic stability control. The overall design of the interior was centered around the driver, with all controls within easy reach. The materials used were of good quality, giving the interior a premium feel. The car's focus on practicality, combined with its stylish design, made it a great choice for a wide range of buyers. The car also offered a good level of comfort and convenience, with features such as automatic climate control, a power sunroof, and a premium audio system available on higher trim levels. The interior was spacious, with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers and plenty of cargo space for luggage and everyday items. The Mazda 3 s Sport was designed to be a practical and enjoyable car, and the interior features certainly contributed to this.

Style, Comfort, and Technology

Let's delve deeper into the style, comfort, and tech aspects of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs. On the style front, the Mazda 3 s Sport was a looker. Its sporty exterior, with its sleek lines and aggressive stance, set it apart from other cars in its class. The Sport trim added exclusive features such as a rear spoiler and unique alloy wheels, giving it an even more athletic appearance. Inside, the car's cabin was a blend of functionality and style. The design was driver-focused, with all controls and instruments logically placed for easy access. The materials used were of good quality, and the overall look and feel were upscale for its segment. Comfort was also a priority. The seats were supportive and comfortable, making long drives a breeze. The car also offered ample space for passengers, with plenty of legroom and headroom in both the front and rear. The cargo space was also generous, making the Mazda 3 s Sport a practical choice for everyday use. As for technology, the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport came equipped with a range of features. Standard equipment included a premium sound system, power windows and door locks, and air conditioning. Higher trim levels added more advanced features, such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and a navigation system. The car also included safety features such as anti-lock brakes, airbags, and electronic stability control. The audio system was generally well-regarded for its sound quality, and the available navigation system was a welcome addition for those who wanted to stay connected on the go. Overall, the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport offered a balanced mix of style, comfort, and technology, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a fun-to-drive and practical compact car. Its well-designed interior, comfortable seats, and array of features made it a great car, offering a very enjoyable driving experience.

Safety and Reliability of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport

Safety is a critical aspect when considering any car. So, let's explore the safety and reliability of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs. Mazda has always been known for its commitment to safety, and the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport was no exception. The car came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), which prevented the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. It also had airbags, including front airbags for the driver and front passenger, and side curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a side impact. The car's body structure was also designed to absorb energy in a collision, minimizing the impact on occupants. Electronic stability control (ESC) was available on some models, which helped to prevent skidding and loss of control in challenging driving situations. In terms of crash test ratings, the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport generally performed well. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the car high ratings in frontal and side impact crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the car good ratings in its frontal offset and side impact tests. These ratings provided added reassurance that the car was designed to protect its occupants in the event of a crash. Reliability is another key factor to consider. The 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport was generally considered to be a reliable car. Owners often reported that the car was dependable and required minimal maintenance. However, like any car, it was important to keep up with regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, to ensure that the car continued to operate safely and efficiently. Overall, the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport was a safe and reliable car, offering a high level of protection in the event of a crash and requiring minimal maintenance. This made it a great choice for drivers seeking a dependable and safe compact car.

Crash Test Ratings and Safety Features

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of the safety aspects of the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs. As mentioned, the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport came equipped with a solid array of safety features. Standard features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), designed to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking and enable the driver to maintain steering control. Airbags were another essential feature, including front airbags for the driver and front passenger, along with side curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a side impact. Some models included electronic stability control (ESC), a crucial system that helps prevent skidding and loss of control, particularly in challenging driving situations. The crash test ratings were also quite impressive. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) generally awarded the car high ratings in frontal and side-impact crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the car good ratings in its frontal offset and side-impact tests. These ratings provide peace of mind, indicating that the car was engineered to protect occupants effectively in the event of a collision. These safety features, coupled with the car's solid crash test performance, make the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport a reliable choice for those prioritizing safety. Mazda's commitment to safety ensured that this model provided a high level of protection for its occupants. So, whether you are considering a used Mazda 3 s Sport or are simply curious about its specs, you can be confident that safety was a key consideration in its design and construction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport

To wrap things up, let's address some commonly asked questions about the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs:

• What engine options were available for the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport? The 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport came with a 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower. This engine was known for its peppy performance and fuel efficiency.
• What transmission options were available? You could choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission.
• What is the fuel economy like? The 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport offered good fuel economy for its class, with EPA-estimated ratings of around 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the automatic transmission.
• What safety features were included? Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes, airbags, and often electronic stability control. The car performed well in crash tests.
• What are some key interior features? The interior boasted features like air conditioning, power windows and door locks, and a premium sound system. Higher trim levels added leather upholstery, heated seats, and a sunroof.
• Is the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport a reliable car? Generally, yes. It's often praised for its reliability, though regular maintenance is always important.

Conclusion

Alright, folks! We have covered the 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport specs in detail. From its performance and engine options to its interior features, safety ratings, and frequently asked questions, we hope this comprehensive overview has been helpful. The 2008 Mazda 3 s Sport was a fantastic compact car that offered a great blend of performance, style, and practicality. It is still a fantastic choice for those looking for a reliable and fun-to-drive vehicle. Thanks for joining me today. Happy driving!