Review: 2012 Mazda3 SKYACTIV

Let me start by saying I am far from a car buff. In fact I know the basics. (Moving on) I have wanted a Mazda since 2006. I FINALLY took the plunge and traded my 2006 Honda Civic for the 2012 Mazda3 SKYACTIV hatchback.

This is the IDENTICAL car I leased. (I do not have any current pictures on my computer, my bad).

 The inside of the new Mazda is sleek. The dash curves as if it is hugging the driver. (Note if you are taller your right knee may touch the dash). They kept the same comfortable seats, which is great because I travel and my biggest complaint with my civic was an hour into the trip... my back would start to ache. The also kept the passenger glovebox on the large size. Which is fantastic. As a mom, I LOVE putting extra diapers and wipes in there. (In 2006-2007 I sold Mazda's. I'd always point out the glove box. I could fit my entire arm in there up to my shoulder blade. I'd like to note I am 5'5 with decently long arms). I can stream my music via bluetooth, which drains my iphone battery but is totally worth being cordless. I can also make phone calls "handsfree".

Now: to get into the technical stuff, in which I really know nothing about.. (giggles)

Engine & Performance

• Base engine size: 2.5 L
• Cam type: Double overhead cam (DOHC)
• Cylinders: inline 4
• Valves: 16
• Valve timing: Variable
• Torque: 168 ft-lbs. @ 4000 rpm
• Horsepower: 167 hp @ 6000 rpm
• Turning circle: 34.2 ft.

• Base engine type: gas

(Yes, I googled all that.) 

"Fuel economy has always been the Mazda3′s big sticking point, and the SKYACTIV was meant to fix this issue. Mazda claims that fuel economy for the hatchback is 28/39 mpg for the automatic and 27/38 mpg for the manual. During our 4 days with the automatic, we managed 25 mpg in town (about 133 miles in total), and our manual returned 26 mpg over 342 miles, including a 115 mile highway drive. Mazda’s Canadian ratings are even higher, with Transport Canada advertising 37/55 imperial MPG (30/45 US MPG)  and touting as much as 58 mpg Imperial (48 US mpg highway) in the automatic sedan. Needless to say, we didn’t come close."

 -www.thetruthaboutcars.com

I feel bad that his didn't get as good of gas milage as he would have hoped, however, I have easily gotten 45 mpg several times. It's so exciting to know that I only have to fill my tank up once every two weeks. It's actually awesome. With my civic, near it's end, I was only getting a good 28 mpg. It sucked filling up once/twice a week. 

I will say, this has been by FAR my favorite vehicle I have ever owned. I strongly believe when my lease is up.. I will be picking myself out another Mazda! They are so fun to drive.

10 Products That Really Work (Well really, 8).

1. SkinnySkinny Black Coffee Organic Body Scrub

It's better at fighting cellulite than fighting that mid-day fatigue. ($30)

2. Murad Firm and Tone Serum

Helps minimize cellulite, and stretch marks. ($77)

3. Sneaky Shimmer

The shimmery gloss accentuates your muscles, though you should probably just do some leg presses/lifts. ($22.50)

4. H2O Aquafirm Intensive Lift Serum 

Helps re-contoure the skins apperance. ($44)

5. Take A Picture... It Lasts Longer

Produces a slimming effect

6. Embrolisse Creme 365 Raffermissante Corps 

Helps plump the skin. ($65)

7. Miracle Skin Transformer SPF 20

Hides any imperfections ($34)

8. Biologique Recherche Creme Anti-C 

Designed to break down fatty tissue. ($109)

If you want to read about more products that will hide those pesky imperfection spots, or attack the fat go here.