t MAZDA3
Mazda adopted its own fuel-efficient technology, SKYACTIVE, to lower its carbon footprint and compete with
hybrids. The latest version of the Mazda3, sedan or compact five-door hatchback, adds impressive styling, or Kodo
“soul of motion” to its advantage.
The first Mazda model to include SKYACTIVE technology, the Mazda3 begins its the third-generation, lighter
and lower than its predecessor.
Powered by two engine choices—a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter and a larger SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter—it also comes
with a choice of two transmissions—a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.
Optimum fuel efficiency comes from the automatic on the sedan with an EPA city/highway estimate of 30/41
mpg. The test model, Mazda3 Grand Touring hatchback, achieved an average mpg of 28.3.
It also had a beautifully appointed interior with two-toned leather seats and red accent stitching.
Mazda was the first to offer a blind spot monitor on a compact and it’s still available on the 3 with the GT
Technology package that also includes regenerative braking and active grille shutters for better fuel efficiency.
Available in a sedan or the five-door, we recommend the later for its added versatility.
Pricing for the 2014 Mazda3 five-door starts at $19,740.
DECISIVE AUTO LATINO
Millennials Car Guide
PARENTAL PREFERENCE
SUBARU LEGACY u
Subaru will redesign the Legacy for 2015. Whether you prefer the look of the 2014 or the new model, what’s
underneath makes the Subaru a good choice for Millennials and one that parents will approve.
All Subarus come with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), and while it may hinder fuel economy slightly,
what it adds in safety and on-road confidence give it an advantage over its competitors.
Powered by the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine, the 2015 Subaru Legacy should achieve an
EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 26/36 mpg. The optional 3.6-liter six-cylinder should achieve 20
mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The test model, Legacy 2.5i Sport averaged 26.1 mpg.
Both are matched with the Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). The six-speed manual,
unfortunately, is no longer available.
While Subaru seemed to lag behind in technology, it’s caught up with the Legacy offering the highly rated
EyeSight driver-assist front crash prevention system. Other optional technology includes the Rear Vehicle
Detection System featuring Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Unique creature comforts include heated cloth seats.
Pricing for the 2014 Subaru Legacy starts at $21,090. The 2015 starts at $22,490.
t NISSAN ROGUE
While some Millennials can afford to buy their own car, most will need help from Mom and Dad. Affordability and
quality will always be considered but parents may also want to minimize temptation. The Nissan Rogue fits the bill
plus it’ll come in handy when relocating during the college years.
First introduced for the 2008 model year, the all-new 2014 Nissan Rogue offers optional third-row seating, expanding its passenger volume to seven. Every seat except the driver’s folds down and the class-exclusive Divide-N-Hide Cargo
System enhances its versatility with 18 adjustable variations (two-row models) between the cargo and occupant areas.
Parents will also appreciate available safety features like the blind spot and lane departure warning systems, and
forward collision warning. The rearview camera is standard, but Nissan’s 360-view camera, or Around View monitor,
is also available.
Configured in AWD or front-wheel drive, the latter should achieve the b