Additional information about this model: The 2012 Mazda 3 takes a leadership role in automotive engineering with what Mazda is calling SkyActiv technology, an engineering philosophy that starts with a blank slate and open mind. The big change for 2012 is the introduction of a new 2.0-liter engine that gets Mazdas SkyActiv treatment, delivering a terrific 28 miles per gallon in the city, 40 mpg on the highway. In fact, during one good run with that engine, we got 43.7 mpg. The SkyActiv engine runs on Regular gasoline. The 2012 Mazda3 lineup features two new SkyActiv transmissions to go with the SkyActiv engine: a 6-speed automatic and 6-speed manual. We found both worked beautifully. One big styling change on all 2012 Mazda3 models is the nose. That big grin thats been fixed on the face of the Mazda3 for the past two years has been wiped off, replaced by a smile thats more reserved. Because the Mazda3 was redesigned for 2010, including a lighter stiffer chassis and new interior, there arent a lot of other changes for 2012. For 2012, the old 2.0-liter engine remains in the base model. The 2.5-liter engine in the up-level s models is unchanged as is the 2.3-liter turbocharged Mazdaspeed3. Mazda makes a claim for the new 3. Our 40 is better than their 40, they say, meaning zoom-zoom performance hasnt been compromised to hit 40 mpg. Not by hard tires, space-saving spares, or aerodynamic hubcaps. And their 40? refers to Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze, and Honda Civic, competitors that also reach 40 mpg, in certain models. Mazda says it offers the most optional extra equipment of any 40-mpg car, for example a Technology Package with blind spot monitoring system, adaptive headlamps and LED taillamps. The 2012 Mazda3 looks better without that stupid grin. Its smoother, prettier and more aerodynamic, as the front fenders are also tweaked, puffed out forward of the wheels. The sedan has a 0.27 coefficient of drag,