The Mazda3 has soldered on largely untouched since 2004, but the stylish econobox manages to win comparison tests against even its newest rivals. As a result, Mazda's top-selling vehicle worldwide has been a big-time favorite of tuners and enthusiasts. With a new i Touring Value model for 2008, even more buyers can now afford to experience Zoom-Zoom. For the very respectable price of $16,595, you get standard features like 17" alloy wheels, fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and MP3 compatible CD player.

With a starting price under $14,000, the Mazda3 is one of the best small car values on the market, and the new Touring Value edition offers features that in the past were only offered with much pricier models. We find it amazing that even five years after its original introduction, the Mazda3 is still tough to beat. Unfortunately, pics of the 2008 model, specifically the i Touring Value and the updated interior across the entire Mazda3 line, have yet to be released, so the 2007 model is shown above and in the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: 2007 Mazda3

Continue reading Mazda3 cost of entry lowered with 2008 i Touring model

Mazda3 cost of entry lowered with 2008 i Touring model originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.