Small independent automaker Mazda enters 2017 with a number of big changes to its lineup, including an all-new crossover, the first ever variation of its popular Miata sports car offered to Americans, and even some detail changes to its mainstream mid-size sedans and hatchback.
Mazda continues to carve out a niche for itself as a more performance-oriented rival to other mainstream brands, but it is also beginning to shift its lineup into a slightly more premium space. While it's not quite a Mercedes-Benz rival just yet (and it doesn't really plan to be), Mazda is aiming to be a cut above brands like Toyota and Nissan.
The big changes for 2017 are centered around the company's CX-5 crossover, a model that has become its bread-and-butter. Redesigned a year earlier than most of us expected, the CX-5 may look derivative of its predecessor, but a number of big changes inside should carve out more space. Additionally, the CX-5 is expected to be even more of a corner carver than before.
A new variant of the Miata called the RF splits the difference between coupes and roadsters with its removable roof section.
Additionally, the automaker's G-Vectoring Control system that works sort of like trail braking is now included on the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 sedans.

2017 Mazda 3
Here's a more comprehensive look at what you'll find in a Mazda showroom this year:
- G-Vectoring Control now included.
- Revised front and rear styling, including new wheels on certain models.
- Grand Touring models now exclusively available with 2.5-liter inline-4.
- Additional sound deadening and other refinement upgrades.
- Full mid-cycle refresh with revised styling inside and out.
- G-Vectoring Control now included.
- Infotainment now standard on base model.
- Premium leather trim offered on Grand Touring
- 18-inch wheels now standard on Touring.
- i-Sense active safety tech available at a lower price.
- Fully redesigned.
- Derivative looks, but major improvements to underpinnings.
- Diesel engine should follow initial 2.5-liter gas inline-4.
- All-new model last year; no announcement made yet for 2017.
- New RF model joins lineup with fixed rear portion of roof and removable center portion.
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