Circling back to your question now that I’ve had a bit of time with the car and I would agree, the gas engine is sputtery and loud. At highway speed it’s quiet and smooth but trying to merge onto busy roads or highways makes this thing groan when in gas mode.
Overall I actually dislike this car. Maybe I’m new to Mazda and this is all standard but I have never had a vehicle nanny me the way this car does. It beeps and chimes for every god.damn.thing. It’s beyond annoying. It will do it’s job as a baby hauler but I’m glad it’s only a 2 year lease.