Hey guys! Are you curious about the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan and specifically its dimensions? You've landed in the right spot! This guide dives deep into every measurement you could possibly need, whether you're trying to figure out if it'll fit in your garage, how much cargo you can haul, or just comparing it to other sedans on the market. Let's get started!

Exterior Dimensions: Size Matters

Let's kick things off with the exterior dimensions. These measurements define the overall footprint of the car and are crucial for parking, navigating tight spaces, and generally understanding its presence on the road. The 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan strikes a nice balance, offering a sporty and agile feel without being overly compact. This makes it a great choice for city dwellers and those who appreciate a car that's easy to maneuver.

• Overall Length: The 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan stretches out to approximately 180.3 inches (4580 mm). This length contributes to its sleek profile and provides a decent amount of rear legroom and trunk space. It's long enough to look substantial but not so long that it becomes a hassle to park.
• Overall Width: Measuring in at around 70.7 inches (1796 mm), the width of the Mazda 3 Sedan ensures comfortable seating for passengers without feeling too bulky on narrow roads. This width also plays a role in the car's stability and handling, contributing to its reputation as a fun-to-drive vehicle.
• Overall Height: The height of the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan is approximately 57.3 inches (1455 mm). This relatively low height gives it a sporty stance and improves aerodynamics, which can lead to better fuel efficiency and a more engaging driving experience. It also contributes to the car's sleek and modern appearance.
• Wheelbase: The distance between the front and rear axles, known as the wheelbase, is approximately 106.3 inches (2700 mm). A longer wheelbase generally translates to a smoother ride and more interior space, especially for rear passengers. The Mazda 3's wheelbase provides a good balance between comfort and agility.
• Track (Front/Rear): The track refers to the distance between the wheels on the same axle. For the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan, the front track is around 61.2 inches (1555 mm), and the rear track is approximately 61.4 inches (1560 mm). These measurements influence the car's stability and handling characteristics, helping it feel planted and confident on the road.

Understanding these exterior dimensions will help you visualize the car's size and determine if it fits your needs and lifestyle. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Mazda 3 Sedan's dimensions contribute to its overall appeal and practicality. Remember, these numbers are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the specific trim level and options.

Interior Dimensions: Comfort is Key

Okay, now let's hop inside! The interior dimensions are what really matter when it comes to passenger comfort and overall usability. The 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan offers a surprisingly spacious interior for its class, making it a comfortable choice for both drivers and passengers. Mazda has paid close attention to maximizing space and creating a welcoming environment.

• Headroom (Front/Rear): Headroom is the vertical distance between the seat and the roof. In the front, you'll find around 38.6 inches (980 mm) of headroom, while rear passengers get approximately 37.6 inches (955 mm). This provides ample space for most adults, even on longer journeys. Taller individuals might find the rear headroom a bit snug, but overall, it's a comfortable space.
• Legroom (Front/Rear): Legroom is the horizontal distance between the seat and the pedals or the seat in front. The front legroom in the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan is a generous 42.2 inches (1072 mm), allowing drivers and front passengers to stretch out and relax. Rear legroom is a respectable 35.8 inches (909 mm), which is decent for a compact sedan. While it might not be limousine-like, it's sufficient for most adults on shorter trips. Kids and smaller adults will find it quite comfortable.
• Shoulder Room (Front/Rear): Shoulder room is the width of the cabin at shoulder height. The front shoulder room is approximately 57.2 inches (1453 mm), providing plenty of space for both occupants. Rear shoulder room is around 54.4 inches (1382 mm), which is adequate for three passengers in a pinch, although two will be much more comfortable.
• Hip Room (Front/Rear): Hip room measures the width of the cabin at hip level. The front hip room is around 55.5 inches (1410 mm), while the rear hip room is approximately 53.5 inches (1359 mm). These dimensions contribute to the overall comfort and spaciousness of the cabin.

The interior dimensions of the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan make it a practical and comfortable choice for daily commutes, road trips, and everything in between. Mazda has done a great job of maximizing space and creating a welcoming environment for both drivers and passengers. Keep in mind that these measurements are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the specific trim level and options. Consider sitting in the car yourself to get a true feel for the space before making a decision.

Cargo Space: Trunk Time!

Now, let's talk about cargo space! If you're planning on hauling groceries, luggage, or other gear, the trunk capacity is a crucial factor to consider. The 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan offers a decent amount of trunk space for its class, making it a practical choice for everyday use and longer trips. While it might not be the largest trunk on the market, it's certainly sufficient for most needs.

• Trunk Volume: The 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan boasts a trunk volume of approximately 12.4 cubic feet (351 liters). This is enough space for a few suitcases, grocery bags, or other essentials. It's a practical size for daily errands and weekend getaways. While some competitors might offer slightly more space, the Mazda 3's trunk is well-shaped and easy to load.

Keep in mind that the trunk space is fixed in the sedan version. If you need more cargo-carrying capability, you might want to consider the Mazda 3 Hatchback, which offers significantly more space with the rear seats folded down. However, for most sedan buyers, the 12.4 cubic feet of trunk space will be more than adequate.

Why Dimensions Matter: Real-World Applications

So, why should you care about all these numbers? Well, understanding the dimensions of the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan can help you make informed decisions in various real-world scenarios. Here are a few examples:

• Parking: Knowing the overall length and width of the car is crucial for parking in tight spaces, especially in urban environments. The Mazda 3 Sedan's manageable dimensions make it relatively easy to maneuver and park in most situations.
• Garage Fit: Before you buy any car, it's essential to make sure it will fit in your garage! Measure your garage dimensions and compare them to the car's overall length and width to ensure a comfortable fit.
• Passenger Comfort: If you frequently transport passengers, especially adults, understanding the interior dimensions like headroom and legroom is essential. The Mazda 3 Sedan offers a decent amount of space for its class, but it's always a good idea to test it out yourself.
• Cargo Capacity: If you often haul a lot of gear, knowing the trunk volume is crucial. The Mazda 3 Sedan's trunk is adequate for most needs, but if you require more space, consider the hatchback version or another vehicle with a larger cargo area.
• Comparison Shopping: When comparing different cars, dimensions are a key factor to consider. They can help you understand the overall size and practicality of each vehicle and make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.

Comparing to the Competition: How Does it Stack Up?

Let's see how the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan stacks up against some of its main competitors in terms of dimensions. This will give you a better understanding of its size and how it compares to other popular compact sedans.

• Honda Civic Sedan: The Civic Sedan is another popular choice in this segment. It's slightly longer than the Mazda 3, with a length of around 182.3 inches. However, the Mazda 3 offers comparable interior space and a more sporty driving experience.
• Toyota Corolla: The Corolla is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It's similar in size to the Mazda 3, with a length of around 182.6 inches. However, the Mazda 3 is often praised for its more stylish design and engaging handling.
• Hyundai Elantra: The Elantra offers a lot of value for the money. It's slightly longer than the Mazda 3, with a length of around 179.9 inches. The Elantra also offers a bit more trunk space, but the Mazda 3 is often considered more fun to drive.

Overall, the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan holds its own against the competition in terms of dimensions. It offers a good balance of interior space, cargo capacity, and maneuverability. While some competitors might be slightly larger or offer more trunk space, the Mazda 3 stands out with its stylish design and engaging driving experience.

Conclusion: The Right Size for You?

So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide to the dimensions of the 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan. Hopefully, this information has helped you understand the car's size and practicality and whether it's the right fit for your needs and lifestyle.

The 2017 Mazda 3 Sedan offers a compelling combination of style, comfort, and practicality. Its dimensions make it easy to maneuver in city traffic, park in tight spaces, and still provide ample space for passengers and cargo. While it might not be the largest or most spacious compact sedan on the market, it strikes a nice balance between form and function.

Before making a final decision, I highly recommend test driving the Mazda 3 Sedan and experiencing it for yourself. Pay attention to how it feels on the road, how easy it is to park, and how comfortable the interior is for you and your passengers. And of course, make sure it fits in your garage!

Happy car shopping, and I hope you find the perfect vehicle for your needs!