The 2009 Mazda Mazda3 Sedan is a carryover from the prior model year. This five-passenger family sedan, comparing nicely to the Honda Civic, comes in five different trims, so buyers can choose the Mazda3 Sedan that meets their unique driving needs. With two engine selections, three transmission choices, and several optional features, the 2009 Mazda3 is one of the most highly customizable sedans on the market. Buyers will be impressed with the reasonable intro price, and tech-savvy individuals will be pleased with the advanced standard and available features. However, the overall safety is a bit lacking in the model.

Under the hood, the Mazda Mazda3 can be fitted with either a 148 horsepower 4.0L four-cylinder or a 156 horsepower 2.3L four-cylinder engine. Both engine selections include variable valve timing. This feature controls the exhaust intake to enhance the model's fuel efficiency. Standard on all trims is a five-speed manual transmission, but the lower trims can be upgraded to a four-speed automatic with manual shift mode, while the higher trims can be fitted with a five-speed Sport automatic with manual shift. The manual transmission model gets an impressive 24 city MPG and 32 highway MPG, and the automatic is estimated at 23 city MPG and 30 highway MPG.

, this 2009 Mazda is packed full of amenities. Automatic climate control is standard on the s Grand Touring trim, and all trims receive a CD player with MP3 compatibility, automatic volume level control, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a rearview mirror that adjusts for day and night. The tire pressure monitoring system includes a digital readout in the instrument cluster. It continuously observes every tire's pressure and signals drivers if a tire is low or has too much pressure. Several features that buyers can upgrade to are an in-dash six-disc CD changer, a DVD-based navigation unit (only on the s Grand Touring trim), and a power sliding glass moonroof.

Safety is covered with anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, an engine immobilizer anti-theft system, and complete airbag protection for all five passengers. The security system will automatically disengage the engine in the event of a break-in. Some potential buyers could be disappointed that stability control and traction control are only available on the two highest trims though.

On the whole, the 2009 Mazda Mazda3 Sedan is a stylish, modern vehicle geared more toward the younger set. With an intro price of $14,490, it is also affordable for the first-time buyer. Larger families will find the Mazda3 constricting, and those looking for a significant amount of entertainment for children will need to move on to another model.