Hyboost, your dealer isn't exactly incorrect. The noise is very much normal for cars that use DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) engines. What you're hearing are the high pressure injectors having to flow more fuel than normal during startup to help warm the catalyst for better emissions. That's why the noise goes away within a few moments of driving.

Nothing to worry about, my wife and I absolutely love our 3 i Touring after 1600 miles. I'm sure you will too.

Yes the noise is completely fine according to all the dealers including mine and all the online resource I could find. The engine keeps the heat of combustion contained longer to help warm the engine and also apparently it helps with cycling the oil around. If you start the car up after it had been warmed, you won't hear the noise. I own the 2012 Mazda3 GS-sky (6speed auto) and I do get the 1500rpm warm up sequence. The sequence is suppose to only take about 30-60seconds. But I'm sure it's okay if it takes a little longer. I was told it's okay to drive while the sequence is taking place but I usually wait until the rpm drops to 1.1-1.0 or if I feel patient, I wait for 0.8/800rpm.

As for the reaction to the gas, I had the same thing haha. It took a really long time before the first bar dropped.

35 MPG on my Touring Sky 6-speed manual driving mostly highway through the canyon. I've owned many cars in my lifetime and so far I'm really enjoying my first Mazda. I was able to negotiate $20.5K "out the door" (e.g., after tax, license, etc.) which was about $4K cheaper than a Prius C or Ford Focus.

I would recommend this car to anybody who's looking for a commuter with some sportiness. What I really enjoy about the car is the rear seats fold flat and the car is equipped standard with leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The audio on the Touring model is also very good.

At 100 KM/HR ( 62 MPH ) my tach says 1800 rpm with cruise control on.

NOTLguy

rpms at 60 mph
 

Thank you Mike for the info, 1900 @ 60 mph w/6 sp AT, I have the MT and turn 2250 @ 60 mph. Could be why the MT gets lower MPG.

I have 3600 miles on my Itouring sedan. A steady 65 mph should get you over 41 mpg. I got 40.55 at speeds up to 75 on a 2300 mile trip. I have yet to get anything under 38 mpg on any fill up. I shift before 3000 RPM and very rarely go over 3000 RPM.