2017 Mazda Atenza Review

Detailed Review

The first generation of the Mazda Atenza codenamed GG1 launched its production in 2002 and continued up to 2007. From 2008 to 2012, the second generation of the Atenza designated as GH1 was manufactured. The Mazda Atenza is currently in its third iteration known as GJ1.

The 2017 Mazda Atenza comes with two engine options, a 2.5 L (Petrol), and a 2.2 L (Diesel) linked to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Click here to purchase the 2017 Mazda Atenza Buyer’s Guide. 

2017 Mazda Atenza Grades

1. Mazda Atenza 20 S- This grade comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a keyless entry, a power-assisted steering wheel, a 12-volt power output, and power mirrors.
2. Mazda Atenza 25 SL- This grade has a CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, an anti-lock braking system, and a centralized door lock.
3. Mazda Atenza XD- This grade boasts a push-start button, power windows, electronic brakeforce distribution, fog lights, and a reverse camera.
4. Mazda Atenza XD L Package- This grade features a sunroof, a keyless entry, an air conditioner, a lip spoiler, an AM/FM Radio, and a power-assisted steering wheel.
5. Mazda Atenza XD Proactive- This grade has stability control, multiple airbags, power windows, side skirts, an anti-lock braking system, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2017 Mazda Atenza has an upscale interior that is somewhat pleasing. The first row has supportive seats with plenty of legroom and headroom and the seats can be reclined to match a desired preference. The second row has comfy seats with adequate knee room and headroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2017 Mazda Atenza incorporates numerous storage compartments that can either be used to store or hold things like beverages, documents, key fobs, and other staff all to improve the comfort of occupants.

A glove box compartment, door panel storage, a center console, and two cupholders are encompassed in the first row. The second row includes door pockets, two cupholders mounted on the armrest, and jacket pockets.

Boot Space

The 2017 Mazda Atenza boasts a spacious cargo area that can haul different sizes of freight. The rear seats can be folded to create more room for more cargo.

Exterior

The 2017 Mazda Atenza features a sleek and dynamic appearance that will for sure turn heads wherever it traverses. Its exterior styling makes it look like it costs twice as much owing to the detailing the manufacturers have put in place. The front end features a slanting bonnet that improves the visibility of the occupants. Sharp character lines on the hood improve the aerodynamics. A bold grille adorned with the Mazda emblem as well as the angular headlights lend it an upscale look.

The side profile also encompasses contours and some variants come standard with side skirts. The mirror caps and door handles are body-colored. Higher trim levels come with a sunroof for ambient lighting in the cabin.

The rear end has angular tail lights as well as turn signals. A roof spoiler is strategically placed to not only improve the aerodynamics but also to improve the overall appearance of the Atenza.

2017 Mazda Atenza Safety Features

The 2017 Mazda Atenza features multiple airbags, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, traction control, a rearview camera, stability control, brake assist, and an anti-lock braking system.

2017 Mazda Atenza Fuel Consumption

2017 Mazda Atenza 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 15.1 km/l on average

2017 Mazda Atenza 2.2 L diesel engine consumption- 18.6  km/l on average

2017 Mazda Atenza Acceleration

2017 Mazda Atenza 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.8 secs

2017 Mazda Atenza 2.2 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8.3 secs

The 2017 Mazda Atenza Fuel Tank Capacity: 62 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2017 Mazda Atenza has a ground clearance of 6.4 inches which is below the required standard of 6.5 inches on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Mazda Atenza spare parts are easily available in major towns. However, its body components are somewhat expensive

Stability And Handling

The 2017 Mazda Atenza has pleasant and enjoyable ride. The steering wheel is power-assisted hence it provides excellent feedback to the driver. The cabin is properly insulated to prevent outside noise from bothering the occupants. The suspension not only cushions passengers from unstable motions especially when driving on off-road terrains, but also helps in minimizing body rolls when approaching a sharp corner at a fast speed.

The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and decent acceleration. Owing to its low clearance, the Atenza cannot traverse off-road terrains as its body components could be damaged. This car is fitted with all-season tires that offer a good grip when driving in wet or dry areas.

Anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, and stability control are among the technologies incorporated in this car to improve its stability.

Reliability

The 2017 Mazda Atenza is a reliable car. It is advisable not to risk driving it in off-road terrains as its body components which are very expensive to either replace or repair could be damaged. Transmission issues are the most commonly reported problems by Atenza owners. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such troubles.

Click here to purchase the 2017 Mazda Atenza Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Average

Mazda Atenza Competitors:  BMW 3 series, Mercedes C200, Toyota Mark X, Subaru Legacy, VW Passat, and Audi A4

What we like about the 2017 Mazda Atenza

Very responsive engine and transmission

Graceful styling of both the interior and exterior

Agile handling

What we don’t

No hybrid model

Ride quality is a bit stiffer compared to its competitors

Low ground clearance

Conclusion

Almost everything about the 2017 Mazda Atenza exhibits attention to detail with a sharp focus on the drivers comfort and engaging driving experience. From all angles, the Atenza inspires confidence and beauty, hence the reason as to why city inhabitants will find it ideal as a daily driver. Folks with small families will be lured by its advanced safety features. Its only drawback is in its low clearance that hinders it from off-road driving. As much as many people would love to own this car, its exorbitant price limits individuals on a tight budget from buying it. Click here to download the 2017 Mazda Atenza Owner’s Manual.