The all-new Mazda 3 sets new benchmarks in design, construction, performance and handling.
Ask your fellow drivers what they expect from a Japanese compact hatchback or saloon, and you’ll get the typical answers.
“Reliable. Spacious. Comfortable. Efficient.”
In other words, competent but slightly boring.
But take one look at the new Mazda 3 and the aforementioned adjectives are not the first things that come to mind.
As your eyes fall onto the new Mazda 3’s lines, the first words you’ll utter are “wow” and “gorgeous”. Mazda has taken the design of the previous 3 and turned it into something bewitching.
The Mazda 3 Sedan invites a second look with its angular face and toned body. The rear end is devoid of any superfluous details. Immediately, it is clear that this model is an upmarket one.
If the Mazda 3 Sedan invites second glances, then the Mazda 3 Hatchback causes lingering looks. In fact, you’ll find it hard not to ogle the Hatchback’s striking C-pillar and even more stunning rear.
If the exterior is impressive, then the interior will leave you speechless. The Mazda 3’s cabin is a refined space. Soft materials, more clean lines and the neatest cockpit you’ll find in this segment.
While other carmakers are filling interiors with buttons, knobs and switches, Mazda designers and engineers have been busy tidying up the 3. Again, there’s nothing superfluous here – the driver has exactly what he or she needs.
The infotainment system, for instance, has been made even more intuitive. The menus load faster, and pressing the dial brings you back to the home screen.
The Mazda 3 has grown more spacious as well, but more importantly, it features redesigned front seats. Working with researchers from a university, the engineers designed the seats to offer more comfort, support and stability.
These traits are realised with the enhanced wheel design, optimised suspension and body rigidity. Engineers studied how the forces enter the cabin from the road, and worked to minimise their effect on passengers.
The result? Driving the Mazda 3 feels as natural as walking. Even when you tackle corners. In fact, the handling has been understated. Already good to begin with, the dynamics in this new model have been further enhanced.
Also enhanced is the drivetrain, which now features the M-Hybrid system to help save fuel.
M-Hybrid captures the energy recovered during braking and feeds it into an Integrated Starter Motor (ISG) which converts it into electric power.
The electric power is then stored in a lithium-ion battery. It is used to power the car’s electrical components, as well as a motor that assists the 1.5-litre engine when it accelerates from a standstill.
Less fuel use equals lower running costs.
So, the new Mazda 3 looks great, is even more refined and even more fun to drive. It is also very safe – it has an impressive 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
But don’t just take our word for it – take one for a drive and experience it for yourself.
— Brought to you by Mazda —
