New generation Mazda3 arrives

The launch of the new Mazda3 follows the release of the popular 2nd generation Mazda2 and Mazda6.

The previous Mazda3 sold more than two million vehicles in over 100 countries since its launch in 2003, and has won more than 90 global motoring awards including a number of New Zealand awards.

The new generation Mazda3 features subtle curving lines and a “smiling” five-point grille – a design theme shared with the Mazda2 and Mazda6.

Andrew Clearwater, managing director Mazda New Zealand, said although the car is sportier with bold, aggressive styling, it still maintains the distinctive ‘Mazda3 look’ established by the previous model that clearly distinguishes it from other competitors in its class.

“The all-new Mazda3 is going to turn a few heads over the coming months with its unique look. We have very high expectations for this vehicle and expect to build on the success of its predecessor which has proved so popular with the New Zealand motoring public,” said Clearwater.

The interior of the Mazda3 has been completely redesigned. A Human Machine Interface (HMI) system lets the driver control the car’s systems from the driver’s seat without taking their eyes off the road. A new top-mounted display is positioned 100mm higher, just to the left of the steering wheel. The new dash-mounted Multi-Information Display (MID) showing trip computer, audio system information, settings and maintenance reminders details (equipped to all models except the GLX), has a selector switch on the steering wheel for ease of operation. Audio functions and cruise control settings are also controlled from the steering wheel (except GLX).

Other cabin features include air conditioning (dual climate controlled on SP25), power windows, mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, AUX jack for MP3 players, a six-speaker CD player (GLX and GSX) and 10-speaker Bose audio system for SP25 and SP25 Limited models.

Safety features include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake-Assist (EBA), driver and passenger front airbags, front side airbags and front and rear curtain airbags.

“Passenger safety is very important to us and we are proud to be able to offer a car designed with safety in mind which doesn’t compromise on style or performance. The new Mazda3 is the complete package with dynamic styling, performance, fuel economy and safety and we expect it to be well received by New Zealand motorists,” said Clearwater.

The new Mazda3 increases space – the sedan is 90mm longer, the hatchback is 45mm longer and both models are 5mm taller.

The Mazda3 is powered by a new 2.5L engine with 122kW and 227Nm and an optimized 2.0L plant with 108kW and 182Nm.

The all-new Mazda is available in sedan and 5-door hatch bodystyles with a choice of four specification levels, two transmissions and eight colours.

Prices range from the six-speed manual GLX Hatch at $30,895, to the SP25 Limited Hatch at $44,285.