2018 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 2018 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 2018 Mazda Atenza Buyer’s Guide. 

2018 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 2018 Mazda Atenza interior is defined by supple leather, soft-touch surfaces, and elegant detailing. The first row offers plenty of legroom and headroom and the seats can be reclined to accommodate a desired preference. The second row is impressive as well as its occupants enjoy sufficient knee room and headroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Mazda Atenza has multiple 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 2018 Mazda Atenza has a spacious load area that can hold small and medium-sized luggage. To create more space, the rear seats can be retracted.

Exterior

One outstanding factor that has contributed to more sales of the 2018 Mazda Atenza is its exterior styling. As much as beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, the Atenza does not compromise on anything as its attention to detail is top-notch. Elegance, sleek, and sporty distinguishes this car from the rest. Up-front is a nicely curved grille bearing the brand’s logo that is used to assert its dominance. The chrome-accented grille is flanked by angular headlights as well as LED daytime running lights that add more flare to it. The lower fascia incorporates fog lights as well as air vents that depict some kind of aggressiveness. The lower bumper is fitted with a lip spoiler which perfectly complements the overall design language of this sedan. Depending on the owner’s taste in design, the lip spoiler can be fitted with carbon fiber embellishments to make it outstanding.

The side profile features nicely done contours that try to make it very conservative but the 17-inch alloy wheels are very eye-catchy. A sunroof comes as standard to improve the lighting in the cabin. A subtle spoiler on the trunk lids enhances the sportiness of the Atenza as the rear end incorporates tail lights as well as turn signals.

2018 Mazda Atenza Safety Features

The 2018 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.

2018 Mazda Atenza Fuel Consumption

2018 Mazda Atenza 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 14.8 km/l on average

2018 Mazda Atenza 2.2 L diesel engine consumption- 18.2  km/l on average

2018 Mazda Atenza Acceleration

2018 Mazda Atenza 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.7 secs

2018 Mazda Atenza 2.2 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8.3 secs

The 2018 Mazda Atenza Fuel Tank Capacity: 62 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2018 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 2018 Mazda Atenza provides a comfortable and engaging driving experience. The driver has more control over the car thanks to its power-assisted steering wheel that gives a responsive feedback. Passengers enjoy their ride as they are unbothered by outside noises for the cabin is well-insulated. Due to its low center of gravity, the Atenza can approach tight bends at a fast speed but it is always recommended to reduce speed to avoid any kind of body rolls that could possibly lead to a disaster.

The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and decent acceleration. The anti-lock braking system as well as the electronic brake force distribution play a big role in the whole braking system and can bring this car to a complete stop in a matter of seconds which helps to avoid any kind of collision.

Because of its low clearance, this sedan cannot traverse off-road terrains as its body components could be damaged. The tires have a good grip on the road.

Reliability

The 2018 Mazda Atenza is considered 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 2018 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 2018 Mazda Atenza

Comfortable and supportive seats

Suave interior and exterior design

What we don’t

No hybrid model

Ride quality is a bit stiffer compared to its competitors

Low ground clearance

Conclusion

The 2018 Mazda Atenza provides a perfect balance between comfort and handling. It ticks all the boxes when it comes to perfomance, value for money, and reliability. Folks with small families have a good choice in the Atenza. Urban residents will find it appealing for use as a daily driver owing to its sleek and elegant exterior styling. Owing to its exorbitant purchase price, individuals on a tight budget may not be in a position to buy this sedan. Click here to download the 2018 Mazda Atenza Owner’s Manual.