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Mazda recalls 109k Tribute models for rust issue

The Mazda Tribute is being hit with a similar recall as its platform-mate the Ford Escape underwent a few weeks ago. Mazda is recalling 109,000 Tributes from model years 2001 to 2004. On the trucks, the subframe can rust from road salt, potentially causing the lower control arm to detach. If this happens, a loss of steering control could occur.
Mazda is adding a reinforcement crossbrace for added strength on the affected models. The recall covers Tributes currently registered in or originally sold in 20 northern states and Washington, DC, where road salt is used.
The reinforcement braces aren't available yet to do the repair. Mazda will send a letter in May to owners of affected vehicles that will inform them of the problem, and a second letter telling them when the parts will be ready. Scroll down to read the full recall press release.

Mazda CX-30 Luggage Test | How much cargo space?

The Mazda CX-30 is pretty much a lifted Mazda3 hatchback. Same platform, awfully similar dimensions, and the interior's a spitting image (if not identical). Ditto cargo capacity. On paper, the two have virtually the same amount of space behind their raised back seats, with the CX-30 at 20.2 cubic-feet and the 3 with just a teensy less at 20.1.  Now, before I go any further, let's see how much that 20.1 cubic-feet relates to in the Mazda3. I wasn't yet doing this test format back then, hence the video.  For reference, both tests used my standard luggage selection of two midsize roller suitcases that would need to be checked in at the airport (26 inches long, 16 wide, 11 deep), two roll-aboard suitcases that just barely fit in the overhead (24L x 15W x 10D), and one smaller roll-aboard that fits easily (23L x 15W x 10D). The bag of baseballs shown in the video is slightly smaller than my new small-bag go-to, my wife's fancy blue overnight bag (21L x 12W x 12D). So, the mark to beat is therefore all the bags minus the smallest roller.  Here is what 20.2 cubic feet looks like in the CX-30. To move beyond the Mazda3 comparison, that figure is in keeping with the CX-30's niche placement between subcompact (the teens) and compact SUVs (upper 20s to upper 30s). The Mazda CX-5 has 30.9 cubic-feet.  Now, typically, I start off by seeing how much I can fit inside with the cargo cover in place. Sadly, this particular CX-30's cargo cover is missing. We'll just have to hope it doesn't rob the CX-30 of as much space as the CX-5's does.  First off, it's immediately noticed that the CX-30's cargo area is not as long as the 3 hatchback's. The largest bag just barely squeezed inside, whereas there was some room to spare in the 3. Now, let's keep loading.  Whattya know? All of the roller bags fit inside. That includes the smallest one, which didn't fit in the 3, fitting atop the stack with perhaps 30% of it over the back seat line. Now, I could've done the same Tetris stack in the 3, but I'm virtually certain the hatch wouldn't have closed. Advantage, then, to the CX-30 and its extra height.  And surprise, the fancy bag also fits. Technically. It robs rear visibility, is pretty far above the seat line and it just barely fits under the back light. If it was filled, I have my doubts about its inclusion. Nevertheless, with or without it, there's still a bit more space on the right side for that bag of baseballs.  Now let's discuss the power liftgate.

2019 Mazda3 Sedan Drivers' Notes Review | Moving on up

The Mazda3 enters its fourth iteration for 2019, replacing one of our favorite compacts on the market. As such, expectations were high for the new model. Like before, the Mazda3 is available as both a sedan and hatchback, though the big news for the new model is the available all-wheel drive system, a rarity for the class and and a feature more and more people are looking for in a car these days. At launch, power comes solely from a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, though Mazda plans to offer additional powertrains down the line. Competitors include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Subaru Impreza, Hyundai Elantra and Kia Forte. Our tester was a well-equipped Mazda3 Premium front-wheel-drive sedan. Standard features include 18-inch wheels, LED lighting, a power driver's seat, leather seating and trim, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone climate control, an 8.8-inch infotainment system, Bose audio, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control. The only added cost to the Premium Package is $595 for the paint. All in, our tester came out to $27,990. Editor-in-Chief Greg Migliore: The Mazda3 is the sportiest in the segment and, as far as I'm concerned, it's dead-even with the Honda Civic for the top spot in the looks department. The steering, brakes and suspension all feel dialed-in and quick. Many compacts are sedate. The 3 makes you want to track it. The suspension is stiff enough that non-enthusiasts might prefer something else, though it's not abusive. The naturally aspirated four provides just enough getup. Mazda is good at the minimalistic approach. Tune a car well, make it look sporty, and don't try to overcompensate with horsepower. This thing looks great inside and out. For the price, you can't beat it. The cabin has the appearance and feel of a premium sedan, with pleasing materials and an enveloping cockpit. With a creased hood and huge, blacked-out grille, the 3's front end has a contemporary style with old-school panache. I might like the hatch better because it's a rarer body style. Still, this sedan is a well-rounded, sporty execution and a great value. This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings. Associate Editor Joel Stocksdale: Since its reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2019 Mazda3 has been my most anticipated car of the year, as well as the one I've been most worried about.