Like previous KODO models, the new Mazda3 features a firm stance enhanced by the compact looking, cab-rearwards design. Lower and wider than the current model - the car's raked profile, rises towards the rear and is bolstered by the boldly flared fenders and large sporty alloy wheels at each corner.
The new Mazda3 hatchback and saloon share the enlarged 2,700mm wheelbase - the longest in the C-segment and 60mm longer than the current Mazda3's. This allowed designers to shorten the front and rear overhangs for a more powerful KODO-inspired stance and, in the process, creating more space for the engine and improving crash safety.
Both body styles are 40mm wider and 15mm lower than the current model, while the saloon features a different roof, rear window, rear wings and boot lid, which extends the overall length by 120mm to 4,580mm. The saloon's boot opening width is increased by 100mm to 1,102mm with a total capacity of 419 litres.
Buyers will be offered a choice of three naturally-aspirated petrol powerplants and one turbocharged diesel - all fitted with i-stop, Mazda's idle-stop system, as standard.
The 98bhp SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre petrol engine is a brand new, highly efficient and exceptionally frugal, delivering up to 23.9km/L on the combined cycle when paired with the six-speed manual gearbox with CO2 emissions from 118g/km. The SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre petrol engine is available in standard 118bhp and high power 162bhp versions.
The standard power SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre is the most economical option combining first-rate fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions - 23.5km/L and 119g/km respectively when equipped with the manual transmission and 21.4km/L and 129g/km of emissions for the automatic.
The SKYACTIV-D clean diesel delivers 147bhp and 380Nm of torque with fuel economy and CO2 emissions for the sedan rated at 30.7km/L and emits 104g/km with the manual gearbox.
