E-Steer which eliminates the need for the traditional power-steering system's hydraulic pump, hoses, fluid and belts.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

No other compact economy car outside of a Mini Cooper offers as much stick-and-rudder fun as the 3: The steering (hydraulic, with an electric pump) is tack-sharp and precise, with almost no torque steer and a gratifying heft that gathers as you turn the wheel.

WSJ: 2012 Mazda3 i Grand Touring Review: It Really Moves the Needle (Not the Gas One) | Rumble Seat by Dan Neil

Controlling steering using electric motors also helps to reduce fuel consumption and hence carbon-dioxide emissions. (Electric motors require power only when the steering wheel is turned, whereas a hydraulic pump drains power from the engine all the time.) Ford reckons 90% of its cars will have electronic steering within three years.

ECONOMIST: Rational consumer