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The subcompact crossover segment has rapidly grown past a niche market, evolving into a “winner take all” competition. Mazda seeks to earn the title “King of the Crossover” with the CX-3 that regularly punches above its weight class. Read on and discover 4 favorite features of the 2020 Mazda CX-3. more 1. The Driver's Crossover Remember how you used to be first in line for the latest performance coupe? Picturing Sunday morning drives when hammering twisting back roads was the quickest route to the grocery store? Becoming a responsible grown-up doesn't have to mean choosing between fun and practical. The 2020 CX-3 offers a 146 hp four-cylinder engine begging to be rev'd to the redline. Boasting an expertly tuned suspension, with a comfortable, yet firm ride, drivers are injected with confidence to tackle any road surface. Commanding a Mazda CX-3, drivers will remember that their subcompact crossover has the pedigree of the race-inspired MX-5! 2. Safety With Speed If you're family-hauling or seeking a quality crossover to take you off the beaten path and get you back, your rig needs to be safe. The 2020 CX-3 offers an advanced suite of safety technology, coming standard with automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. Opt for available lane-departure warning and adaptive cruise control to take safety to the next level. The 2020 CX-3 earned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Five Star safety rating, as well as IIHS' Top Safety Pick. Buyers can be assured, when the unthinkable happens, CX-3 is their co-pilot to get them home. 3. Who Wants to Stop for Gas? Nothing is more frustrating than tackling your evening commute, children arguing in the backseat, and realizing you need to stop for gas. Why try to execute complex math in your head, hoping to have enough gas to skip the fuel stop and go straight home? Let the 2020 CX-3 escort you home. The 2020 CX-3 offers a fuel-sipping 29 mpg city and 32 mpg highway (two-wheel-drive models) and 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway (AWD models). This level of fuel economy crowns CX-3 as one of the most fuel-efficient modern subcompact crossovers on the market! 4. Don't Break the Bank German luxury sedans pioneered the minimalist interior design, usually reserved for vehicles demanding buyers to pay $40k and up. Mazda continues to buck the trend, offering a comfortable quality interior, bringing “upscale” and “luxury” to a modern crossover under $28,000 MSRP, for the highest trim! Utilizing a comfortable driving position, mixed with leather trim, and quality plastics, the 2020 CX-5 will make you forget that it wasn't built near the Autobahn. If you're looking to upgrade to a quality luxurious subcompact crossover that grants you fun and utility, don't settle for a compromise. Choose the 2020 CX-3, built by those who have the heart of a driver. Visit Rochester Mazda to take home your 2020 CX-3 today!

1. Mazda CX-30 Turbo The 2021 Mazda CX-30 has recently been unveiled, and there is a lot to be excited about. Apple Carplay and Android Auto finally are standard, and the new Mazda CX-30 Turbo has 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. But those who don't want the turbocharged option should still be excited. There are four other trims options available: 2.5S, Select, Preferred, and Premium. Each trim comes with exciting new standard and/or available features. more Starting with the most exciting upgrade, the CX-30 Turbo has a powerful Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbocharged engine. Coupled with i-Activ AWD, the CX-30 delivers unparalleled performance in a subcompact SUV. Conquer road and trail like never before in a CX-30 and enjoy new updated driver-assist safety features as well. The 18-inch black aluminum wheels come as standard and definitely stand out, as does the glossy black trim along with the mirrors, Turbo badge at the rear, and the two large exhaust pipes. 2. Mazda Radar Cruise Control With Stop and Go Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go will keep to a set speed (set by you) and will keep the following distance behind the car directly in front of you. The CX-30 will decelerate as the car in front of it does and will even come to a full stop and start accelerating again if need be. 3. Smart Brake Support Smart Brake Support can detect other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. If they are detected, the CX-30 will alert you via audio and visual cues. If the driver does not react in time or a collision is imminent, the vehicle will apply braking automatically. 4. Blind Spot Monitoring Blind Spot Monitoring is available for the base model and gives an extra line of sight for those hard to see areas. If it detects a vehicle in your blind spot, you will be notified by a warning light on the side mirrors as well as the Active Driving Display if equipped. 5. Rear Cross Traffic Alert Available Rear Cross-Traffic Alert detects vehicles that are approaching you while you're backing up. Once a vehicle is detected, you will be notified with audio warnings and visual cues appearing in the side mirrors, rearview camera, and Active Driver Display if equipped. 6. Lane-Keep Assist Lane-keep Assist will correct steering when it detects your vehicle performing an accidental lane departure. This is done to prevent your vehicle from exiting its current lane. 7. MyMazda App The MyMazda App makes your smartphone an extension of your vehicle. You can receive notifications when you may need an oil change, you have certain electrical issues, your tire pressure needs checking, and more. Any services needed will be sent to you, so you know before you get on the road and can schedule service through the app. From your phone, you can start your vehicle and set the cabin temperature to either warm it up or cool it down. The MyMazda app can also pin the location of where you parked so you never have to worry about losing your car again. The CX-30 is a top 3 finalist for the 2020 World Car of the Year. It has a 5-Star overall safety rating and is a 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick when equipped with the Signature LED with Adaptive Front-lighting System. Whether it's safety, performance, or connectivity you're after, the CX-30 ticks all the boxes. Visit Rochester Mazda today and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated about the CX-30 Turbo which is set to be released later this year.

One of the most frustrating parts of owning a car is repairing it when something goes wrong. Even when you do everything right, sometimes you are going to end up having to visit a garage to get some repairs done. What many Mazda drivers don't realize is that it can be in your best interest to get those repairs done at a qualified dealership. Here are four reasons that every Mazda driver should get their next Mazda repair at a dealership. more 1. Genuine Mazda Parts Make the Difference Lots of people choose to go to local shops for repairs because they say that it is cheaper. One reason it can be cheaper is that these shops often use generic parts and not Genuine Mazda parts or OEM equivalents. These generic parts were designed to fit in many kinds of cars, so they may not be ideal for your specific vehicle. In contrast, when you go to a Mazda dealer, you can trust that every part that is used was made for your vehicle. By getting genuine parts, you know that your car will perform up to the standard it was intended to by Mazda's engineers. So next time you need a repair, don't swap in a less exact part. Use Genuine Mazda Parts from a Mazda dealer. 2. Take Advantage of Your Mazda Warranty Although it shouldn't happen, sometimes you may encounter issues with your Mazda before it has left its warranty. In this case, you may be able to get the repair done free of charge. This is another advantage of a dealership repair. You can get your car repaired right and at no cost to yourself when it is under warranty. 3. Recall Notices It may be rare, but sometimes your Mazda may have a part that is under recall. When this happens, Mazda will get a hold of you so that you can get it repaired. But mistakes happen, addresses change, and recall notices might not get to you. By getting parts repaired at your Mazda dealership, you know that the technicians will be aware of any current recalls. They can then fix it and get you back on the road as quickly as possible. 4. Specialised Training and Technology Every year, cars get better and better. However, this progress comes with a lot of change and increased sophistication. The biggest advantage of going to a Mazda dealer is that their technicians are trained by Mazda to fix your specific car. Mazda technicians know your car inside and out. As well, they have the specialized tools and equipment required to diagnose and repair your Mazda the right way. Don't take a chance on someone who may have never repaired your car before, and go with the experts at your Mazda dealership. One of the most important reasons to buy a Mazda is their unparalleled driving experience. By getting your Mazda serviced at an authorized dealership, you know that no matter how hard your drive it, your Mazda will be more than up to the task. Visit Rochester Mazda today to get your car repaired or serviced.

When you live in Minnesota, you quickly become accustomed to seeing a thick layer of snow all over your vehicle when you wake up in the morning. You may have your own method for getting on the road following a heavy snowfall, but there are effective ways to clean snow and ice off of your car before backing out of your driveway. Here are four tips. more Use Your Defrosters Before starting any snow removal procedure, make sure that your tailpipe is clear of snow and ice so carbon monoxide isn't released back into your vehicle at dangerous levels. Then, reach inside the car and turn on your front and rear defrosters so they can slowly heat up your vehicle's exterior and aid you in your task. Do Not Use Hot Water Pouring hot water over snow and ice may seem like a great idea, but it can actually do some harm. The windshield's glass may crack from the extreme temperature change, leaving you with glass shards everywhere and puddles of water all over the ground, which can be its own hazard. For the same reason, and also because it can melt the glass, steer clear of using a propane burner over the windshield, too. If other, non-glass parts of your vehicle, such as your door handle, are covered in ice and snow, you can pour cold water over them in a steady stream while softly brushing away the piles. Use the Right Tools One of the most important things you can do to clean snow and ice off your car is to make sure you're using the correct tools during the entire process. Stay away from any metal, including metal ice scrapers you may see being sold in the store because they can leave cuts and scrapes on your windshield or in your car paint. While you may have heard that vinegar and water mixed together will also get the job done, that's not necessarily true as you're likely to be left with a damaged windshield. Instead, use a combination of a plastic ice scraper and a soft, nonabrasive foam brush to work at the compact snow covering your car. It's best to use a brush that is specifically manufactured for snow — anything else can leave behind scratches. Work From the Top Down Using your new brush, start at the top of the car by pulling the snow toward you rather than pushing it away. Continue to your windshield and hood, and repeat the process at your back window and trunk area until almost all of the snow and ice have been removed from your vehicle. Make sure that the only snow and ice you leave behind are small pieces that will naturally melt with the help of your defroster; otherwise, larger chunks can fall while you're in transit and impede your car or others on the road. If you want to continue to enjoy your car, give yourself the extra time you need to remove the snow and ice from your vehicle safely. This precaution can help you avoid repair costs and keep your vehicle in great shape for a long while. Image via Pexel

Driving is a very stressful, yet very necessary, part of life. It can be even more stressful if you have to drive in rain or snow. However, there are steps you can take to make driving in difficult weather conditions safer and less stressful. Here are two tips for driving in less than perfect weather. more Prepare Your Vehicle If you know you're going to be driving in bad weather, you should make sure your car is prepared. Check to see if the windshield wipers are in good repair, working properly, and you have plenty of wiper fluid. You should also inspect the headlights and taillights. If you live in an area where it snows, make sure you have a good set of winter tires. You don't want to rely on chains because they can damage the road and your car. They're also unsafe when driving at high speeds. Prepare Yourself Whether you're headed to work or a family event, if you're driving in bad weather, give yourself plenty of time to get there. You don't want to speed on wet roads. You should also eliminate distractions as much as possible. Make sure your phone is turned off and that your music is at a low volume. While you should never drive distracted, driving in severe weather conditions requires even more concentration. These are just a few things you can do to stay safe when driving in bad weather. With a little preparation, you'll be able to drive with confidence in any situation.   Image via Pexel

Rochester, MN is a vibrant city full of art, parks, shopping, dining, and breweries. It's a wonderful place to live or visit. However, if you're looking to leave Rochester for the day, here are some of the best day trips! 3 Best Day Trips to Take From Rochester, MN more 1. Rochester Trolley & Tour Co Trolley Wine Tours If you're over 21 and appreciate wine, the Rochester Trolley & Tour Co's Trolley Wine Tours are a great idea. There are several different wine trails that stop at wineries and offer beautiful views. For the Great River Road “North'' Wine Trail Tour, the trolley leaves from Rochester at 10 a.m. and returns at 6 p.m. On this tour, you'll visit three wineries, pass the beautiful Lake Pepin, and drive on the Great River Road National Scenic Byway. The Great River Road “South” Wine Trail Tour also stops at three wineries and departs at 10 a.m. and returns at 6 p.m. In this tour, you'll take the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, which was ranked as the “most scenic drive in America” in 2012, eat lunch at the Elmaro Vineyard and Winery, and see the Gavin Heights Scenic Overlook. While on the wine tours, be sure to drink responsibly and with moderation. Do not drink and drive. 2. Spirit Mountain Spirit Mountain in Duluth is a great place for skiing, snow tubing, fat biking, and snowboarding in the winter. The mountain offers 22 runs for people of all skill levels, and the longest run is 5400 feet long! There's a chalet at the top of the mountain and another at the bottom. If you enjoy camping, Spirit Mountain has 73 campsites with fire pits, picnic tables, and electricity as well as the option for walk-in tenting. There are several mountain biking trails which offer incredible views of Lake Superior and the St. Louis Bay and the mountain is great for hiking. The Spirit Mountain Adventure Park is open year-round and offers great views and thrilling rides. The Timber Twister, an alpine coaster, follows a 3200-foot track that cuts through the forest and races down the mountain. The Timber Flyer Zipline is 700 feet long and you can ride single or double on a bench-style seat while the skiing chair lifts offer rides in the summer so you can see the beautiful scenery. There's also disc golf, mini-golf, and the Jumping Pillow! 3. Forestville / Mystery Cave State Park This park offers 17 miles of hiking trails, 15 miles of horseback trails, campgrounds, a wooded landscape, and blue-ribbon trout streams. It's great for picnicking, walking, and observing plant and animal life. Historic Forestville, a living history village site, offers tours on the weekends and during the summer. The park also has the Mystery Cave, the state's longest known cave, which offers daily tours in the summer and tours on the weekends from mid-April through October. You can see stalactites, stalagmites, underground pools, and flowstone in these interconnecting passages. Rustic tours, wild caving tours, and accessible tours with modern lighting and walkways are available. Visit Rochester Mazda for a great selection of new vehicles and Mazda Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. Our team will help you navigate through the available options so you can make the best choice for your lifestyle.

For the 2021 model year, Mazda is bringing back its compact models. The latest addition to its 3 series is the 2.5 Turbo, which comes as a sedan and a hatchback. Also called the Premium Plus trim, it is the top trim of the Mazda3. Use this guide to learn more about the brand-new Mazda3 2.5 Turbo. Impressive Engine As its name implies, the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo is powered by a turbocharged engine. It has the same turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine that comes in the Mazda CX-5 and CX-9 crossover SUVs as well as the Mazda 6 sedan. This engine produces 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission along with all-wheel drive, but no front-wheel-drive option. This is different than the Mazda 6, which only comes in front-wheel drive and the CX-9, which offers all-wheel drive as an option. more Note that to achieve these numbers for horsepower and torque, you need to use premium gasoline. Regular gasoline dips those numbers to 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Premium Exterior The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo hatchback features a black rear roof spoiler and black front air dam, while the sedan has a black rear lip spoiler. To enhance the vehicle's color, the compact car also includes 18-inch black alloy wheels and black power side mirrors. Plush Interior Every Mazda3 2.5 Turbo comes with numerous interior amenities surrounded by rich materials including microsuede and real wood trim. Enjoy listening to your favorite music via a 12-speaker Bose audio system while sitting in premium heated seats. It also includes an 8.8-inch touch-screen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Excellent Safety Features To keep you and your travelers safe, this compact Mazda comes with a variety of standard safety features. It includes blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Other available technology features include Traffic Jam Assist, which is an extension of adaptive cruise control. When you approach traffic and slow down, the system activates so you can remove your foot from the pedal. It brakes and accelerates the car for you while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front. The vehicle also includes a 360-degree View Monitor, which displays your exterior view on the infotainment screen thanks to a 360 camera system that covers all four sides of the vehicle. This four-camera system shows multiple views of the vehicle including the normal front, wide front, side, normal rear, wide rear, and top down. This monitor also features front and rear parking sensors, so when navigating tight spaces, these sensors provide an audio alert when you get too close to objects. If you're interested in learning more about the 2021 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo, contact the experts at Rochester Mazda. They can answer any questions you might have and schedule a test drive for you. In no time, you can drive off the lot in one of these powerful vehicles.

Named the second-best subcompact SUV by U.S. News and World Report, the 2020 Mazda CX-30 is a brand-new vehicle that comes in four available trims: CX-30 (base), Select, Preferred, and Premium. Use this guide to learn more about why you should consider the CX-30 for your next vehicle. Spacious and Upscale Interior The Mazda CX-30 seats five people, and the driver and front passenger seats are comfortable even for long drives. There's plenty of legroom and headroom, even if the back row. The vehicle feels roomier when compared to others in its class. Almost all of its surfaces are soft, and the multicolored upholstery and trim pieces give the vehicle a unique appearance. more The Select trim adds tinted rear windows, simulated leather upholstery including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Opting for the Preferred trim adds heated seats, while the top-of-the-line Premium trim includes full leather seating and a power liftgate. User-Friendly Technology The SUV's interior has a plethora of amenities to help you enjoy your ride. Each trim includes an 8.8-inch infotainment display that you operate via a rotary knob. Although there is no touch-screen display, the infotainment system is easy to operate. The base trim includes HD radio, voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, two USB ports, and an eight-speaker stereo system. All trims except the base one include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, while the Preferred and Premium trims include a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Nimble Handling The CX-30 is a fun vehicle to drive, thanks to its nimble handling and maneuverability. It's powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. It also comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine is the same one that is found on the compact Mazda CX-5, and it gives you enough acceleration to pass other vehicles when traveling at high speeds on the highway. Impressive Cargo Space Behind the rear seats, the CX-30 has 20.2 cubic feet of space. Although this number is about average, the space is more impressive because the vehicle has a wide hatch opening. Thanks to a low trunk floor, you have an easy time wedging large or bulky items into the SUV. Stellar Safety Features To keep everyone safe, the vehicle comes standard with an abundance of safety features. Many of these features are part of Mazda's i-Activesense driver assistance system and include pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. All trims also include adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a driver monitoring system, a rearview camera, and automatic high-beam headlights. You can upgrade the Select trim to receive blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while these come standard on the other two trims. Thanks to these features, the CX-30 earned the 2020 Top Safety Pick ranking from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. If you're interested in getting behind the wheel of the new 2020 Mazda CX-30, contact the professionals at Rochester Mazda. They can answer any questions you might have and help you drive home in one of these stunning vehicles today.

When you're searching for a crossover SUV that's ready to take on your busy schedule, be sure to test drive the 2020 Mazda CX-5. This crowd-favorite crossover model is loaded with exciting features for you and your passengers to enjoy. It's time to meet the 2020 Mazda CX-5. Choose Your Level of Luxury As you move up the 2020 Mazda CX-5 's trim levels — the Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature — its list of luxuries grows. The CX-5's seat upholstery is upgraded to leatherette at the Touring level, gets leather trimming at the next two levels, and has exquisite brown Nappa leather trimming at the Signature level. The Signature also adds genuine wood accents to the cabin. more If you want to keep the whole cabin comfortable in the winter, opt for the Grand Touring Reserve's heated front and rear seats and heated steering wheel. Add the Touring Preferred package to your Touring model to take advantage of features such as a sunroof and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. All these features are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what you'll get as you rise higher through the CX-5's trim levels. Connectivity Each new CX-5 comes standard with a 7- or 8-inch touch screen that keeps you more connected when you're on the go. At the Touring level, the touch screen is compatible with the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay programs, which allow you to connect your phone to your CX-5 for hands-free use. Whether you're playing your latest audiobook, looking up directions to the nearest coffeehouse, or calling home base, this technology lets you stay connected and entertained without ever having to take your eyes off the road. i-Activsense This smart crossover has access to some of the best driver-assist technologies on the market. Mazda's i-Activsense suite equips your CX-5 with features such as a blind-spot monitor, radar cruise control, automatic headlamps, lane-keep assist, and an automatic emergency braking system. These safety-boosting technologies work wonders to keep you more aware of and react faster to potential dangers on the road. i-Active AWD The available i-Activ all-wheel-drive system gives your CX-5 an enhanced grip on the road. It uses multiple data points, such as temperature, driver habits, road conditions, and braking patterns to better decide which wheels need a boost in traction. Whether you're driving through rain, snow, or dirt, the i-Activ system is a great asset to have on your side. Plenty of Power The 2020 CX-5 gives you two engine options to choose from. The first three trim levels come equipped with an already powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. If you want an even more thrilling driving experience, opt for the Grand Touring Reserve or Signature models to get access to a turbocharged version of that engine that punches out 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Whichever you choose, the CX-5 offers a dynamic and spirited ride that makes the dullest drives exciting. If you think the 2020 Mazda CX-5 might be a good fit for your lifestyle and needs, give our team at Rochester Mazda a visit. This exciting new Mazda SUV is ready to hit the city streets when you are.

Finding the right compact crossover for your lifestyle may seem like a challenge. After all, the number of options available in that segment can be dizzying. But, one of the leading models in the compact crossover SUV class is the Mazda CX-5, a vehicle that combines style, versatility, and performance. As you compare trim levels, you can make an informed decision as to which model is right for you. Sport The base trim level of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 is the Sport trim, and it comes well-equipped with appealing features. It has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine beneath its hood, which rates at 186 pound-feet of torque and 187 horsepower. Exterior equipment includes automatic LED headlights, power-adjustable side mirrors with integrated LED turn signal indicators, dual exhaust outlets, and 17-inch alloy wheels. more Inside the cabin, features include cloth upholstery, manually adjustable front seats, and a four-speaker sound system with dual USB ports and a 7-inch touch screen. Every Mazda CX-5 includes blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, radar cruise control with stop and go technology, collision warning with smart brake support and pedestrian detection, and a rearview camera. Touring The Touring trim level has the same powertrain as the Sport, although it does have a few of its own features. Exterior enhancements include keyless entry and auto-leveling headlights, while the cabin adds dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, two additional speakers in the audio system, smartphone integration, and faux upholstery. An optional package adds a premium Bose audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and a power-operated liftgate. Grand Touring The optional features on the Touring trim come standard on the Grand Touring, along with leather upholstery, an upgraded driver information display, a power passenger seat, 19-inch wheels, and driver's seat memory functions. For an even more well-equipped cabin, add the GT Premium package to get ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. That package also adds a head-up display to the safety equipment list. Grand Touring Reserve One of the key differentiators of the upper two trim levels is a more powerful turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The output increases to 310 pound-feet of torque and 227 horsepower on standard fuel. Premium fuel takes those numbers to 320 pound-feet of torque and 250 horsepower. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature also come standard with all-wheel drive. Interior equipment includes the contents of the GT Premium package, plus a larger 8-inch touch screen. The exterior also gets automated power-folding and heated side mirrors. Signature For the most luxurious CX-5, opt for the top Signature trim. It boasts a wide range of appealing features, including premium leather upholstery, a unique overhead console with LED lighting, genuine layered wood trim, and navigation. Visit Rochester Mazda to take the 2020 Mazda CX-5 for a test drive. We have a selection that includes all the available trim levels, each of which is ready for you to take out on the open road.

Driving in the rain can cause safety concerns. Not only does rain distort your view of the road ahead, but rain can also create slippery driving surfaces. During the rainy months of the year, consider these tips for driving safely: Slow Down Wet pavement is slippery. If you drive too quickly over wet pavement, your tires may lose traction. This can make your car harder to handle, which can result in unsafe conditions. Slowing down also allows you to create more space between yourself and other traffic. If you do need to stop for any reason, you are giving yourself more room to bring your vehicle to a stop, which reduces the chances of a collision. A slow-moving vehicle is also easier to bring to a complete stop than a fast-moving vehicle. more Turn on Your Headlights It is usually dark and cloudy when it rains. Rain can distort your vision, but so can darkness. Turning on your headlights can improve your vision. Your headlights can also make it easier for other cars on the road to see you. Drive in the Tracks of the Car in Front of You Following the lead of the cars in front of you can make it easier to drive on wet road conditions. The cars ahead of you are making a path in the water. Driving in this path can make it easier to handle your vehicle, reducing the risk of losing control. Know How to Handle Hydroplaning Hydroplaning happens when your tires drive over water and lose contact with the road. You are most likely to hydroplane when driving in large puddles. Hydroplaning causes your vehicle to skid or spin. If this happens, take your foot off of the gas pedal and keep the wheel straight until your vehicle reclaims traction. If needed, brake gently. Do not press hard on the brakes, as this will make the skid or spin worse. Pay Attention to Other Drivers Driving defensively is always a good idea, especially when it is raining. Other drives may not be as cautious as you when driving in rainy conditions. Keep an eye out for drivers who are speeding. Try to avoid these drivers, as they may hydroplane and skid. You also want to look out for any cars that may not have their headlights on. These cars will be more difficult to see and you do not want to collide with them. Maintain the Quality of Your Windshield Wipers It is hard enough to see in a rainstorm, but improperly functioning windshield wipers make your vision even worse. Without well functioning windshield wipers, you may not be able to see the road ahead at all. This is incredibly unsafe, so check your windshield wipers often. You also want to make sure you have enough windshield wiper fluid in your car. Without the fluid, you may not be able to clean dirt and debris from your windshield during a storm, which makes your vision worse. When following these tips, you can operate your vehicle as safely as possible in the rain. You can shop for a vehicle at Rochester Mazda, or you can receive service on your vehicle at our location. Be sure to check us out!

When it comes to keeping you and your passengers safe when you're behind the wheel, modern cars, trucks, and SUVs have a number of appealing safety features. Mazda manufactures vehicles designed to protect its buyers, and many of the high-end features are bundled into a package known as i-ACTIVSENSE. This package includes both active and passive features, many of which come standard on the latest models from this auto brand. What's in i-ACTIVSENSE? i-ACTIVSENSE is Mazda's umbrella term that covers a wide range of advanced safety technologies. These features utilize detection devices, including cameras and milliwave radars, to support safer driving. It begins with the lighting, pointing the low-beam headlights in the same direction as the steering wheel. Automatic high-beam control switches between high and low beams to help you see the road ahead without impeding oncoming traffic. Radar-controlled cruise control maintains a set speed while using radar technology to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead. more Features to Prevent a Collision Additional features designed to prevent accidents from happening include a rear vehicle monitoring system, which provides an alert when a vehicle is approaching from the rear, and lane detection warning system, which detects the lane markings on the road and alerts you when you're unintentionally drifting outside of your lane. Forward obstruction warning detects obstacles and vehicles in the front of the car, calculating the distance and sounding an alarm with a visual alert when the risk of collision increases. Features to Reduce the Risk of a Collision Mazda vehicles are also available with pre-crash safety features that can lessen the risk of being involved in a collision. The first is Smart City Brake Support, which helps reduce the most common type of accident, a rear-end collision. When you're driving at low speeds, a windshield-mounted laser sensor senses the vehicle ahead. If a collision risk is detected, this system prepares the brake system to deliver maximum braking ability. If the driver doesn't brake, this feature can also reduce the engine output while applying the brakes to avoid the collision or at least reduce the severity. If the gas pedal is pushed by mistake, the acceleration control feature can kick into effect. This feature engages if the vehicle is stopped and an obstacle is detected ahead, yet the accelerator pedal has been pressed harder than expected. In this case, acceleration control will curb the engine output and alert the driver with a light and warning alarm. Standard Passive Features Every new Mazda vehicle also comes with a long list of passive safety features to protect those in the cabin in the event of a collision. Advanced air bags are placed at the front, along with side-curtain and rear air bags to lessen the extent of injuries sustained in a crash. Additional features include adjustable seatbelts with pre-tensioners, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, and an impact-absorbing steering system. When you're shopping for a new Mazda vehicle, be sure to look for models that include the i-ACTIVSENSE suite of features to get the highest level of protection. Visit Rochester Mazda to find your perfect vehicle.