Mazda3 hatch shows its strengths in Lake Tahoe trip

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- A late October trip to Lake Tahoe.  What is the best vehicle for the job?

Based on my recent trip, I nominate the 2024 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo hatchback, equipped with the Premium Plus package and all-wheel drive.

How so?  It covers all the bases.  Let me count the ways.

For starters, you need a vehicle capable of tackling the tricky Highway 50 run up to Daggett Pass in Nevada.  From the Sacramento Valley floor to the pass summit, that's a climb of nearly 7,500 feet.

The turbo-boosted Mazda3 handled it like a champ. The 2.5-liter engine is rated at 227 horsepower with 87 octane gas, but the power curve jumps to 250 horses with 93 octane.  Either way, the Mazda3 tester charged into hill climbs with muscular vigor.

In those short passing zones on Highway 50, the Mazda dusted off stragglers in quick order before zipping back into line with one quick twist of the wrists. Fuel mileage is pretty good at 23 miles per gallon in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

Inside the hatch, there are more road trip advantages.  With the rear seats folded flat, two full-size suit cases fit perfectly side by side, still leaving plenty more room to haul additional gear.

With the Premium Plus package, I was treated to a nearly obscene amount of perks for a five-door hatch. That's in addition to a full boat of safety/security technology.

Among the long list of items, I was particularly impressed with the easy-to-use, easy-to-see 10.25-inch center color display, with touchscreen functionality.  On unfamiliar roads, the nav system kept me informed and secure in all situations.

So, what's the cost.  Figure $45,000, right?  Try $38,410 on the test vehicle ... a bargain to be sure.

Mazda never disappoints with performance and driving-enhancement technology, making short road trips or long cross-country drives a snap.  The Mazda3 I had was a vehicle I could trust in the high country, and fun to drive all the way around.