The 2017 Mazda3 Grand Touring hatchback represents a pinnacle of compact car engineering, blending sporty performance with refined practicality. This specific trim level sits at the top of the range, offering the most comprehensive suite of features, technology, and driving dynamics available in the third-generation Mazda3 lineup. For buyers seeking a vehicle that transcends mere transportation, the Grand Touring hatchback delivers a compelling blend of efficiency, capability, and premium experience.
Design and Exterior Presence
Mazda’s design language in 2017, termed KODO—Soul of Motion, is vividly expressed through the Grand Touring hatchback. The front fascia features a more aggressive front bumper with a large grille and LED daytime running lights, creating a wide, planted stance. 19-inch alloy wheels, standard on the Grand Touring, further enhance this athletic profile, while the signature LED headlights provide exceptional nighttime visibility and a distinct aesthetic signature that sets the model apart from base and Touring trims.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2017 Grand Touring hatchback shifts the focus to a driver-centric cockpit wrapped in high-quality materials. The use of soft-touch plastics, leather-appointed surfaces, and metallic accents creates an atmosphere of sophistication rarely found in its class. The front seats, bolstered for lateral support, feature power adjustment and memory settings, ensuring optimal comfort for drivers of various shapes and sizes during both daily commutes and long-distance journeys.
Advanced infotainment system with navigation
Bose premium audio system with 10 speakers
Heated front and rear seats
Power liftgate with auto-close functionality
Keyless entry and start with push-button ignition
Infotainment and Connectivity
The centerpiece of the cabin is the large, intuitive infotainment screen, which integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly. This connectivity allows for effortless smartphone mirroring, turning the hatchback into a connected hub for navigation, music, and messaging. The Bose audio system, a significant upgrade, fills the cabin with rich, clear sound, transforming the driving experience into an immersive auditory event, whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway.
Driving Dynamics and Performance
Under the hood, the 2017 Grand Touring hatchback is powered by a refined 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G inline-four engine, producing 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is mated to a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, although a manual gearbox is available for enthusiasts. The chassis, tuned for responsive handling, delivers a taut and engaging ride, making every drive feel connected and purposeful, whether navigating tight urban alleyways or winding country roads.
Safety and Efficiency
Safety is deeply integrated into the Grand Touring’s design, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. A suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, known as i-Activsense, is standard. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, providing a confident layer of security for drivers and passengers alike. Despite its performance orientation, the hatchback maintains respectable fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily use without sacrificing excitement.
