09-02-2005
Mazda continues to force customers to rethink what’s possible in the automotive industry with the MAZDA3 SP23 Special Edition on display at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show. Having already injected some much-needed style, build quality and performance into the otherwise mundane compact vehicle segment, Mazda has taken things a step further with a full complement of luxury.
The 2005 MAZDA3 SP23 Special Edition, available in both 4-Door and 5-Door s models with a 2.3-liter 160-horsepower MZR engine, surrounds Mazda’s signature Zoom-Zoom driving experience in sumptuous leather, sublime, high-quality sound and elegant trim commonly found on expensive luxury sedans. Offered only in Carbon Gray Mica, the special edition MAZDA3 defies the compact vehicle stigma in every way.
"Since its introduction, MAZDA3 stood out for its distinctive style, spacious interior and class-leading performance," said David Dildy, MAZDA3 vehicle line manager for Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). "We’ve raised the bar even higher with the refined MAZDA3 SP23 Special Edition, which is full of high-value features not commonly found in a compact car."
The special edition MAZDA3 boasts high-gloss finish 17-inch alloys, unique extended side sills, rain-sensing front windshield wipers and automatic on/off headlights. Special "SP23" badges grace each of the front doors, adding an understated touch that further differentiates the MAZDA3 SP23 Special Edition.
Inside, the SP23 Special Edition sports extensive use of leather, both for the seats and door panel inserts. With a choice between Saddle Brown or Black leather, buyers easily can choose the MAZDA3 SP23 Special Edition that best suits them. In addition, and for the first time on a MAZDA3, both front seats receive standard seat heaters. Other touches appearing only on the SP23 Special Edition include black piano-gloss instrument panel trim and steering wheel inserts.
As just reward for choosing an SP23 Special Edition, Mazda provided each car with a seven-speaker premium Bose® sound system. A digital amplifier with five channels of custom equalization is mounted discreetly beneath the driver’s seat and a custom, sonically tuned subwoofer enclosure is mounted beneath the front passenger seat. With digital signal processing and 222 watts of total power, both driver and passengers will enjoy the vibrant, concert-hall-like sound quality of the special edition MAZDA3. Feeding the powerful Bose sound system is a six-disc in-dash CD changer or optional, dealer-installed Sirius® satellite radio system, which provides more than 120 channels of commercial-free listening coast-to-coast.
The performance-oriented luxury found in the MAZDA3 SP23 Special Edition does not stop with its sumptuous interior or sporty appearance. The optional exclusive Security Package adds a host of components designed for vehicle protection and occupant
safety: Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights offer superb illumination; a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) provides the driver with advance warning if tire pressure runs low or high; and a theft-deterrent security system helps protect the special edition MAZDA3 from unwanted attention.
Also standard on the SP23 Special Edition is an advanced Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. By distributing maximum braking power to each of the four wheels based on cargo and passenger load, EBD provides excellent stopping power without affecting handling or brake performance.
Optionally available are a four-speed Sport A/T automatic transmission with manual-shift mode, a power sliding glass moonroof and a DVD-based navigation system.
Like MAZDA3, the SP23 is equipped with the same class-leading powertrain and chassis, attaining its perfect balance between liner power and articulate handling.
Like every Mazda, the MAZDA3 SP23 Special Edition comes with a four-year roadside assistance program. With a call to a toll-free number, all MAZDA3 owners can access roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year throughout the United States and Canada. For all 2005 Mazda vehicles, the company will provide a free loaner car in the event a warrantable condition requires the use of alternative transportation.
The 2005 MAZDA3 SP23 Special Edition is covered by a comprehensive four-year/50,000-mile warranty that covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. In addition, all MAZDA3s are covered by a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.
Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.
Text and photos courtesy of Mazda
