Inside The Mazda3 We’ve All Been Waiting For
Since 2004, Mazda3 has been one of the auto maker’s most popular options, and it just got better. The newest Mazda3 debuted at the 2018 Los Angeles auto show and car enthusiasts have been drooling over it ever since. If you missed the 2019 Mazda3 reveal, see it here. If it connects with something deep inside, that’s what it was designed to do. Every detail of the new Mazda3 was designed to spark emotion.
“Open the door to our future,” the Mazda website says. Mind-blowing technology meets heart-breaking purity in the Mazda3 we’ve all been waiting for.
2019 Mazda3 Pricing and Trim
Mazda3 will still come in both sedan and hatchback options, with five different available motors. In 2018, Mazda3 cost between $18,100 and $25,000 with three levels of trim and two motors. Dealers expect similar pricing in 2019.
Interior Design Changes
Mazda extensively researches driver seating position and designs car interiors to make the vehicle an extension of driver bodies. Inside 2019 Mazda3, the interior is simple and elegant. The steering column has more room for adjustment, so it’s easier to access for drivers of different heights. Tilting front seat cushions now come standard. Designers reduced the distance between the shifter and steering wheel to make driving safer and provide more room for cup holders.
The cabin also has added insulation for reduced road noise and sumptuous new interior fabrics. The Active Driving Display has more user-friendly fonts, a digital owner’s manual and an improved sound system.
PowerTrain
You read right earlier, you have five motor options when you pick your new Mazda3. Three of them are SKYACTIV®-G four-cylinder engines. One is the SKYACTIV®-D 1.8L inline 4 engine. Possibly the most exciting is the SKYACTIV®-X, an engine that uses “spark-controlled compression ignition” to maximize fuel economy.
Safety Features for 2019 Mazda3
Again, there are upgrades all around here. The 2019 Mazda3 uses infrared cameras to watch the driver’s eyes, and it will alert you if it has reason to believe you’re getting sleepy. 2019 Mazda3 has available front cross traffic alert, a feature that checks blind spots and lets you know if there’s something you might not see. The car has optional semi-autonomous driving, with cruising and traffic support that responds to vehicles around you. If you get in an accident, in addition to all the other safety features, Mazda added a standard knee airbag.
2019 mazda3 Availability
Velocity Mazda has two on the boat as we write this article. Get in touch now and we’ll let you know when they’re here. You could be one of the first East Texans to own the new Mazda3. After that, more should be available sometime in March 2019.
Android Auto for Mazda Drivers
Car navigation systems are a good idea, but for so many people, it’s easier to use a cell phone. Navigation on an infotainment system is often slow and clunky. It’s hard to remember where things are located. You know it’s dangerous to use your phone while driving, but it seems just as dangerous to take your eyes off the road long enough to figure out how to do the same task on your car’s screen.
Android Auto makes the whole process easier for Mazda drivers. Now almost everything you could do on your phone, you can do through your car.
How Android Auto Makes Driving Safer
Possibly the biggest benefit to using Android Auto in your Mazda is you don’t have to learn how to use another system. Your phone’s apps, notifications, messages, audio files and maps just become available through your car’s infotainment. They’re stored in the same locations and they behave the same when you use them.
You also get Google Assistant. If you need to add something to your shopping list or send a message through a huge collection of messaging apps, you say “Hey Google,” just like you would any other time.
Android Auto Setup for Mazda
Setup is super simple. Just plug your phone into the smartphone port in your car using a high-quality USB cable. Android Auto will open automatically. Either say, “Okay Google,” or press the voice control button on your steering wheel to activate Google Assistant.
The Commander Knob is located on the center console, designed to be within easy reach while driving. You can either rotate or tilt to toggle between options, then press down on the center to launch them. Music, Nav and Home are already buttons, so you don’t have to search for them. Music will open what’s now playing on your phone and NAV will pull up current guidance or the map screen.
To return to Mazda Connect, press the Home button right above the Commander Knob. You also always have the option of reaching Google Assistant with the steering wheel voice command. For example, you can press the “Talk” button on your steering wheel and say, “Navigate to Velocity Mazda.”
Apps that Work With Android Auto
For navigation, Android Auto supports Google Maps and Waze. Access your contacts and chat or text using voice commands with SMS, WhatsApp, Kik, Hangouts and other messaging apps. Music apps include Spotify, Pandora, Google Play Music and iHeart Radio. You can also use Audiobooks, NPR One and MLB. There’s a more extensive list of available apps in the Google Play store.
Android Auto Frequently Asked Questions
What Mazda vehicles are compatible with Android Auto?
Most 2014 or newer Mazda vehicles can have Android Auto installed. We covered the specifics in our article on Apple CarPlay/Android Auto upgrades.
How do I add Android Auto to my Mazda?
That one is easy, just contact our service department. We’ll install it in a few hours.
How do I get help using or installing Android Auto in my Mazda?
We’re always available to help. Contact us through our website or Facebook page or call (855)818-3461.
Using Your Mazda’s CarPlay With Your iPhone
If your Mazda came with Apple CarPlay or you’ve had Velocity Mazda install the upgrade, there’s a smarter, safer way to use your iPhone in the car. With CarPlay, most tasks you previously performed using your phone are on the built-in display. Once you’re connected use that display or steering wheel controls to get turn-by-turn directions, place calls, check or send messages using your voice and ask for directions. This article walks you through setup and answers some of the most frequently asked questions.
Apple CarPlay Controls
The whole point is to keep your eyes on the road. Control Apple CarPlay through your car’s knobs, buttons, touchscreen or through Siri voice control.
Activate Siri by pressing and holding the voice control button on your Mazda’s steering wheel. If you’re stopped or riding as a passenger, access icons with your vehicle’s touchscreen just like you would a big iPad. You can also control the volume or change stations like you would with any infotainment system, using the knobs and buttons around the screen.
Apple CarPlay Setup for Mazda
Setup is easy and straightforward. First, put your car in park and engage the parking brake.
Start your car and check to make sure Siri is on. Plug in your USB cable to the port with the CarPlay or smartphone icon or press and hold the voice command button on your Mazda’s steering wheel. Your Mazda Connect system will detect your iPhone and you’ll see prompts on your vehicle’s screen.
Press and hold the home button above the commander knob until you see the Apple CarPlay user interface. Use the knob to scroll over and highlight the Apple CarPlay icon in the top corner, then press down on the knob to make your selection.
On your iPhone, you may need to go to Settings > General > CarPlay. Then, tap the option for available cars and choose your Mazda. Once connected, you’ll have easy access to many of the apps already installed on your phone.
Apple CarPlay Frequently Asked Questions
What iPhones work with CarPlay and Mazda?
If you have iPhone 5 or newer, it will work with Apple CarPlay.
Can I get CarPlay in an older Mazda?
Yes! See a list of the Mazda vehicles in which you can have Apple CarPlay installed.
What apps are CarPlay compatible?
A lot of them. You’ll be ale to use Maps, Phone, Messages, Music, Podcasts, Audiobooks and several other apps. Your phone itself will lock while connected to help you resist the temptation to use it while you’re on the road.
What happens if there’s no cell signal?
Most CarPlay apps need a cell signal to work. In areas with a bad signal, you can still use Mazda’s built-in navigation system.
What if I have problems with my Apple CarPlay?
At Velocity Mazda, we’re here to help. Just stop by and we’ll walk you through how to get the most out of your Apple CarPlay.
Two New Mazda Crossovers Coming to the U.S.
Mazda recently announced it’s building not one, but two new crossovers for the United States and Canada, and car enthusiasts immediately started speculating. The teaser photo is dark and mysterious, with little more than a silhouette and seductively glowing taillights. Experts say the first will be similar to the Mazda CX-4 currently available in China. What the second might be is anyone’s guess.
We do know where Mazda will make the new cars. Right now in Huntsville Alabama Mazda and Toyota are working together to build a $1.6 billion factory. Mazda and Toyota will share the space and build cars they sell in the U.S. right here in the South.
China’s Mazda CX-4 Crossover
Mazda has been selling the Mazda CX-4 since 2016, but only in China. It’s based on the Mazda CX-5, the manufacturer’s extremely popular crossover. It’s larger than the Mazda CX-3, with an additional foot in length and a taller profile. It has the unmistakable KODO design found in all Mazda vehicles with a wide stance and sleek lines.
Its high ground clearance makes it suitable for a range of road conditions. In China, Mazda CX-4 sells with the same i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety technologies, excellent handling and environmental safety you find in similar Mazda vehicles we sell here in Tyler, Texas.
Is Mazda CX-4 What’s Coming?
The teaser photo looks a lot like the Mazda CX-4 produced in China. In early February, Mazda spokesperson Drew Carey referenced the photo and said Mazda would reveal the car in Geneva, and that car would be coming to the United States. However, that’s all the information he gave. It could have a different name, exterior and powertrain.
The Geneva Motor Show starts Thursday, March 7 and runs through Sunday, March 17.
Second Crossover in the Works
Mazda is being vague about the details. Mazda North America CEO Masahiro Moro told reporters only that the second vehicle will be “a new crossover SUV which is exclusively designed for the North American market.” He said both new vehicles would share the same architecture, and that Mazda is still finalizing the concept for the second.
Crossovers have been wildly popular in the United States. In 2018, Mazda sold 150,622 Mazda CX-5s, more than half of the brand’s total of 300,325 sales.
Mazda and Toyota broke ground on the Alabama assembly plant in January of this year. The plant will employ up to 4,000 Americans and produce around 300,000 vehicles annually. Half of those could be the two new Mazda crossover models. Production is planned to start sometime in the middle of 2021, so that’s the earliest we can expect to purchase the new vehicles.
Your Mazda has been with you through thick and thin. It gets your heart pumping and is there for you when you’ve had a bad day. Your Mazda takes you places you couldn’t go alone. It never asks for flowers and chocolates but will appreciate a little TLC this Valentine’s Day.
Routine maintenance ensures you and your Mazda can enjoy years of happiness together. Skip it, and the repair bill could break your heart. Preserve your relationship with these tips for Valentine’s Day and beyond.
Schedule February Maintenance
Whether you do it yourself or turn it over to the pros, give your Mazda what it needs:
- Schedule an annual tune-up for consistent power and fuel economy.
- Change your oil and filter as instructed in your Mazda owner’s manual.
- Check tire pressure every month, especially now when temperature averages fluctuate so much. Don’t forget to check your spare.
- Check your wheel alignment. East Texas roads can be unforgiving. If your wheels aren’t properly aligned it impacts your gas mileage, handling, driving pleasure and safety.
- Inspect lights and windshield wipers. They need periodic replacement from normal wear and tear.
Give Your Mazda a Spa Day
If you have somewhere warm to work, spend some time with warm soapy water and a sponge washing away all that winter road grime. Follow up with a good wax. Clean all the extra items out of your interior and trunk. Vacuum and wipe that dust off your dash.
Add an interior air freshener so you get a mental lift when you slide behind the wheel. After its spa treatment your car will look better, and when you pull out of the driveway you’ll feel like you have a new ride.
Buy Your Mazda Accessories
Your Mazda wants to stand out from the crowd. Genuine Mazda accessories fit perfectly, work like a dream and take your car’s appearance to the next level. Buy audio and electrical accessories like remote engine start or Apple CarPlay integration. Get a “Zoom-Zoom” license plate that still has people humming the original commercial theme in their heads. Add cargo capacity with a roof rack or protect your baby from the elements with an all-weather car cover.
Genuine Mazda accessories are available for browsing online. Once you find what you want, get in touch for current pricing and availability.
Velocity Mazda’s Vehicle Spotlight — Mazda6
The high-class styling of Mazda6 has always made it a sight for sore eyes. It also comes with unbelievable driving dynamics because of its exquisite chassis and finely tuned suspension. It costs far less than you’d think when you read the long list of technology, safety and comfort features. We could go on. In fact, I think we will.
Why Buy Mazda6
When you get ready to buy a new car in Tyler Texas, put Mazda6 at the top of your list. Here are just a few of the reasons.
- Mazda6 looks amazing — The classy exterior and refined interior is a visual treat you just never get tired of.
- G-Vectoring Control — In 2017 Mazda enhanced G-vectoring control so Mazda6 better grips the road when you’re steering into a turn. Mazda is known for being fun to drive, and you’ll feel confident on winding roads and tight curves.
- Built for driver comfort — The seating position is something Mazda prioritizes in manufacturing. Plus, you’ll find everything logically arranged and within easy reach.
- Impressive infotainment — Buy a new Mazda6 and get Apple Car Play or Android Auto.
- Excellent fuel economy — Drive East Texas without worrying about pain at the pump.
- Top Safety Pick — The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives Mazda6 top honors year after year for its innovative safety features.
Mazda6 Trim Comparison
The 2018 Mazda6 comes in four trim levels: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and Signature. They’re all fantastic, and each has features you won’t find in similarly priced vehicles by other manufacturers. They all seat five passengers comfortably and have front wheel drive. Here’s a breakdown of some of the differences.
Sport
Mazda6 Sport is the most affordable trim level in the 2018 lineup. The four-door sedan comes from the factory with a SKYACTIV-G 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine. It barely sips on the gas and delivers an EPA estimated 35 mpg on the highway. It also has gorgeous interior design and a whole range of standard features like auto-leveling LED headlights, a dual-zone automatic climate control with pollen filter and remote keyless entry. MSRP starts at $23,000. Yeah you didn’t see that coming, did you?
Touring
The next level up has the same engine, but additions to connectivity and safety technologies. You still get 187-hp and 35 mpg on the highway. The touring level trim comes with 19″ aluminum alloy wheels in Gun Metallic finish, a power sliding-glass moonroof, heated front seats, Smart Brake and Advanced Smart City Brake Support, Radar Cruise control and more.
Grand Touring
This upgrade has more insulation for reduced road noise. It has improved audio technologies and 250 horses. You get more power and can still go 31 mpg on the open road. The Grand Touring has an 11-speaker Bose system with Bluetooth connectivity and leatherette-trimmed sport seats.
Signature
The top-level trim gives you everything available in lower levels, plus luxurious Nappa Leather-Trimmed sport seats that are ventilated in the front. This Mazda6 also comes adorned with Japanese Sen wood and suede accents for an interior that looks and feels incredibly refined.
All Mazdas come with a three year or 36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. They cover the engine and transmission for 60,000 miles. Check out what we have available online or come see us in person at Velocity Mazda on Loop 323 in Tyler, Texas.
Thirty years ago at the Chicago Auto Show, Mazda revealed what became the most beloved roadster of all time, the Mazda MX-5 Miata. It was 1989 when the public first saw the two-seater that has become a legend. Now in 2019, the company will celebrate Mazda MX-5 Miata’s 30th birthday with an Anniversary Edition. Mazda released a teaser photo that barely gives us a glimpse of what we’ll see.
At first glance, you may not think you can see anything at all. Look again. Toward the top, you see the curve of Mazda MX-5 Miata’s roof. Along the pavement, what appears to be metallic wheels. We’ll know more closer to the Anniversary Edition Mazda MX-5 Miata’s reveal in February.
What 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Offers Now
This model year came with big changes already. It has new standard and available safety features, a new level of trim and loads more power.
Mazda MX-5 Miata comes in three trim levels if you’re buying a soft-top: Sport, Club and Grand Touring. The hard-top RF comes only in Club and Grand Touring.
This is the first year a rear backup camera comes standard. It also has a telescoping steering wheel, making the seating position even more comfortable on long, winding roads.
The engine has small tweaks that make a big difference. Lighter pistons with re-shaped domes improve combustion. The Mazda MX-5 Miata has bigger ports and valves and a high-flow exhaust manifold for more air. These and other changes added 26 more horses and 3 pounds-feet of torque.
What Happened Last Time Mazda Released an Anniversary Edition Mazda MX-5 Miata
Five years ago, Mazda released the limited-edition 25th Anniversary Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster. The manufacturer only debuted 100 of them at first, and they sold out in 10 minutes. The cars had a special white leather interior and came with a Torneau watch that matched the exterior red.
Pricing for the Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition started at an MSRP of $32,205 for a manual transmission and $32,655 for automatic.
30th Anniversary Mazda MX-5 Miata Predictions
Mazda says they created the car to show appreciation for the people who have helped MX-5 become and stay such a success for three decades straight. The new anniversary edition will most likely have unique factory graphics, anniversary badging and special-edition paint. It could also have anniversary-edition specific wheels and embroidery.
The good news is, you don’t have to wait to see a Mazda MX-5 Miata that will make you fall in love. Come by Velocity Mazda on the loop in Tyler any day of the week and take one for a spin. Check out our online inventory or set up your test drive now.
Mazda and the 2019 24 Hours of Daytona
The 2019 24 Hours of Daytona is just days away, and at Velocity Mazda, our eyes are on Mazda Team Joest. Mazda has been racing in the Prototype class since the founding of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, and this year we’re already shattering records.
Mazda Team Joest 2019 Lineup
This year’s team is going to be hard to beat, with a mix of racing veterans and talented new faces behind the wheel of RT24-Ps The team finished 2018 with a second and third place at Petit Le Mans. Then, they spent the off-season honing skills and refining the Soul Red Crystal Mazdas for the year ahead.
On this year’s team, Jonathan Bomarito enters his eighth season with Mazda. He and his partner Harry Tincknell drove the No.55 Castrol Mazda RT24-P in 2018. Oliver Pla, a race winner in Petit Le Mans and the World Endurance Championship joins Bomarito and Tincknell.
Tristan Nunez and Oliver Jarvis are back as primary drivers for the No.77 Mazda RT24-P. Timo Bernhardt will join them for the Michelin Endurance Cup event. Also, Rene Rast will be back for the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring.
“There is no question that the level of competition in IMSA continues to rise every year,” says John Doonan, director of Mazda Motorsports. “Class rule separation between the DPi and LMP2 cars means some adjustments heading into 2019, so everyone at AER, Multimatic, and Mazda Team Joest have been working extremely hard to be prepared with our two Mazda RT24-Ps.
“The cars have performed incredibly well throughout our winter testing program and we are very much looking forward to kicking things off at Daytona.”
Earlier This Year
Mazda’s team started the year by breaking records. At the Daytona Roar Before the 24 test session, the Mazda RT24-P team set lap times that broke records others have been trying to break since 1993, when Toyota AAR’s Eagle MK III topped timing sheets.
The official record time is 1m33.875s. Oliver Jarvis came in a few tenths quicker at 1m33.398s. Class regulations between 2018 and 2019 allowed a change in tire suppliers from Continental to Michelin and a class split that allowed LMP2 cars to turn up the power a little bit.
Jarvis said the No. 77 Mazda Team Joest car “felt incredible… You could really push the car to its limits, and that’s what us drivers live for, that feeling of getting everything out of the car.”
24 Hours of Daytona
The 2019 24 Hours of Daytona was previously known as the 2019 Rolex 24 at Daytona. It’s an International Motorsports Association sanctioned 24-hour endurance race at the Daytona International Speedway. The race is the first of 12 in the 2019 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the first of four rounds for the 2019 Michelin Endurance Cup.
When and Where to Watch
NBC presents live coverage of the 57th running of 24 Hours of Daytona starting with a one-hour season preview on Thursday, January 24 at 2 p.m. Eastern (3 p.m. if you’re in Tyler, Texas). Then, live coverage of qualifying runs from 3-5 p.m. Eastern later that day. The event itself stretches from Saturday, January 26 through Sunday, January 27.
Also, the race will definitely be on at the dealership. Join us at Velocity Mazda to watch!
How Mazda Saves You On Check Engine Light Repairs
What did you feel the last time a light went on in your dashboard? We hear people say they feel alarmed something might be wrong, a sinking feeling about the potential cost and a tiny bit of hope it will go away on its own. Mazda vehicles are among the most reliable on the road. Usually, owners have years of trouble-free driving as long as they perform the manufacturer recommended maintenance. A recent study found that when the check engine light does go on, if you drive a Mazda, repairs won’t break the bank.
Don’t Ignore a Check Engine Light — Here’s Why
When the light goes on, that means something is wrong. Fix it as soon as possible and you’ll avoid more costly repairs down the road. A lot of the time the light means something simple needs to be addressed, then you’ll be back on the road until time for vehicle maintenance. Wait for it to go away and you might end up with problems like these:
- A failed oxygen sensor cuts into your fuel economy by as much as 40 percent. Over time, it can also damage your spark plugs and catalytic converter.
- Mass airflow sensor failure damages O2 sensors, spark plugs and your catalytic converter. It also cuts in to fuel economy.
- If your catalytic converter goes bad, you could expose yourself and your passengers to exhaust fumes.
- When engine problems are imminent, ignoring a dashboard warning could leave you stranded on the side of the road with the need for more expensive repairs.
Cost of Mazda Check Engine Light Repairs
So if that light goes on, what will it cost you to find out what’s happening? According to a study by CarMD, it’s more affordable to have your Mazda looked at than any other brand.
If your Mazda is under warranty, you’re already covered. If you’re out of warranty, the average is $285.70 to repair check engine light related issues. The very least expensive Mazda is the 2013 Miata, at an average of $81 for check engine light repairs.
You love your Mazda because it’s fun to drive, packed with premium features and built to last. If you do need to have that light checked, you’ll also love how affordable it is to have our service department take a look.
What’s the Average on Other Car Repairs?
If you don’t drive a Mazda, what can you expect to pay for check engine light repairs? Vehicle Health Index provided these figures:
- Replacing spark plug wiring and spark plugs – $331
- Swapping mass airflow sensor – $382
- Replacing ignition coils and spark plugs – $390
- Replacing the catalytic converter – $1,153
Again, that’s for other brands. The Mazda averages are much less.
Car Brands With Highest Maintenance Costs
If you don’t already feel really good about driving a Mazda, YourMechanic researched the most and least expensive vehicles to drive and maintain. As you might expect, so-called “luxury” brands topped the list. BMW was by far the most expensive, with a maintenance cost averaging $17,800 over 10 years. Mercedes, Cadillac, Volvo and Audi all cost over $12,000 on average for 10 years of maintenance.
Year after year, Mazda vehicles top charts for reliability ratings. If you own one, reliability was probably one of the features that attracted you. It’s good to have the extra peace of mind that comes with knowing if you do have a check engine light issue, you’re driving the most affordable vehicle to repair. Contact our service department, we’re here when you need us.
If you look at a new Mazda vehicle, it will make you hurt a little bit. The 2019 Mazda3 has a completely redesigned interior and exterior. Mazda CX-9 has a number of interior, technology and exterior upgrades. The 2019 Mazda6 has more premium features and loads of torque. Plus, it’s prettier than ever.
Part of what makes the 2019 models so enviable is the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto upgrade they come with. Fortunately, if you have new car technology envy, you might not have to trade your old ride to get it. Let’s look at what’s so great about the technology and whether or not you can have it installed in your Mazda.
About Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
A lot of in-car infotainment systems just fall short. They’re hard to use. The technology is often outdated. Drivers use their phones for directions, music and information because it just works better.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are a version of your iPhone or Android device that runs through your car’s computer interface. Use the same voice commands you do for your phone to interact with your car. The manual controls still work the same, but the whole system is more user-friendly.
If you choose Apple CarPlay, after installation you plug in your phone (requires iPhone 5 and up) to get the friendly, familiar icon and screens. With Android Auto, you download the app on your device, plug it in to a USB port and the program loads automatically.
Calls and texts are hands-free. With Apple CarPlay, use the steering wheel voice prompt button or say, “Hey, Siri.” For Android Auto, hold down the steering wheel microphone button. For navigation, access Apple’s Maps or Google Maps. Download third-party music apps like Spotify, Pandora or Audible to take audiobooks and playlists on the road.
What Mazdas Can Be Retrofitted
If your Mazda is a 2014 or newer, most likely we can add this technology in our service department. It’s crazy inexpensive for a technology upgrade, and it only takes about two hours to install. Here’s the list of eligible Mazda vehicles:
- 2014 – 2018 Mazda3
- 2016-2018 Mazda6
- 2016-2019 Mazda MX-5
- 2017-2019 Mazda MX-5 RF
- 2016-2019 Mazda CX-3
- 2016-2018 Mazda CX-5
- 2016-2018 Mazda CX-9
If you have more questions about the upgrade, we’re here to help. Call our service department at 855-818-3461 or fill out our online contact form and we’ll get in touch.
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