Everything you should know about vehicles in Kentucky!
Authored by Paul Miller Autogroup President and General Manager, J.P. Miller, Jr., You AUTO Know is designed to keep you up-to-date and in the know about vehicle trends and developments. As a trusted local dealer for more than 57 years, this blog will provide you with everything you need to know about vehicles that are on the road today!

2011 Mazda3


Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:07:00 -0500

2011 Mazda 3

Working in the automotive industry comes with a lot of excitement ranging from auto shows to seeing new and improved vehicles. If you're an automotive enthusiast like I am, there's nothing like test driving all-new models. When the new cars, trucks and SUVs hit Paul Miller's lot, I become the epitome of a big kid in a toy store. I can't help but jump from one to the next checking out the latest features.
Since my job allows me to feed my "inner-child" so to speak, I get the opportunity to check out all the new vehicles equipped with the latest features. From time to time, I borrow a vehicle from the lot to see first-hand, what it has to offer our customers.

With spring swiftly approaching, I wanted to find a car suitable for the season. Mazda has a reputation for zippy, fun cars and the 2011 Mazda 3 lineup is nothing short of just that. If you're looking for a safe, compact, fuel efficient car with a fun-to-drive demeanor, ample equipment and excellent quality to match, this is the car for you. Plus, it offers you the comforts of a luxury car but for a more reasonable price.

Since Mazda3 was completely redesigned for 2010, the 2011 is almost identical to its predecessor; however added bonuses do come with the 2011 models to fit just about anyone's preference.

2011 Mazda3 is available in two body styles: a sedan or four-door hatchback. The sedan is offered in five trim levels. There are three "i" trims (i SV, i Sport and i Touring) and two upgraded "s" trims (s Sport and s Grand Touring). The hatchback comes solely in the s trims. No matter which Mazda 3 you choose to purchase, expect an impressive level of convenience and safety-related equipment for your money. Indeed, a fully loaded Mazda 3 s Grand Touring has a luxury sport sedan vibe.

The 3i comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 135 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual is standard, while a five-speed automatic is optional on all but the 3i SV. The sprightlier Mazda 3s is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 good for 167 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is standard here, with a five-speed automatic optional.

All models include electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, front side airbags, side-curtain airbags and active head restraints.

Mazda's reputation has built on how fun their cars are to drive, but the features that are offered never hurt. Bluetooth is standard as is steering-wheel audio controls and telephone controls. Bose Centerpoint audio system with a moon-roof and Sirius Satellite Radio is one option package as well. Other standard features and options on the Mazda 3 include bi-xenon headlamps, adaptive front lighting, fog lamps, a bright-tipped dual exhaust, rain sensing wipers, heated mirrors, leather seats (heated in the front), dual-zone climate control and a hands free interface. There is even a Tech package that includes rain-sensing wipers, bi-xenon headlights and LED combination tail lamp.

The 2011 Mazda 3 offers just as much, if not more than its main competitors. It has more horsepower than Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, and gets up to 39 miles per gallon!

If you're looking for a fresh, fun car with a thrilling performance, look no further. The 2011 Mazda 3 is available at Paul Miller Mazda, Lexington's only Mazda store. We are family owned and operated and our award winning sales and service team is at your service!

Read more »





J.P. Miller, Jr. is President and General Manager of Paul Miller Auto group in Lexington, Ky. An auto industry veteran, J.P. knows everything you auto know about cars today! Off the clock you will most likely find him with his family: wife, Aimee; five-year-old daughter, Lauren; and two-year-old son, Paul keep him plenty busy at home! J.P. loves all things auto and enjoys spending time golfing.

Paul Miller has been serving Kentuckians since 1953, thriving under the same ownership for more than 57 years and three generations. Paul Miller offers a great selection of vehicles from Ford and Mazda, as well as numerous certified pre-owned makes and models in the Paul Miller AutoOutlet. With its QuickLane service department servicing all makes and models six days a week and Fortune Collision Centres located in Lexington, Frankfort, Nicholasville and Georgetown, Paul Miller offers exceptional service to customers!

tops in lex twitter