The Mazda3 replaced the famous 323 when it was introduced in 2004. It was only four years later when the second generation of the Japanese mid-sized sedan was unveiled at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Then in 2012, Mazda offered a facelifted Mazda3 with minor tweaks to its styling and new SkyActiv technology only for the 2.0-litre variant.
To make things even better and to ensure the mid-sized sedan can keep up with the competition in its segment, Mazda introduced the all new third generation Mazda3 last year.
The new Mazda3 is also the third model in Mazda's lineup - the others being the CX-5 and the Mazda6 - to feature the full range of the company's groundbreaking SkyActiv technology, including the engine, transmission, chassis and body.
Exterior
At 4,580mm x 1,795mm x 1,450mm (L x W x H), the new Mazda3 shares the same length as its predecessor but is 40mm wider and sits 20mm lower for a broader, more powerful on-road stance.
Mazda has built a strong reputation for designing eye-catching cars and the latest Mazda3 upholds this case.
Adopting Mazda's 'KODO: Soul Of Motion' design language, the newcomer clearly takes its cues from its bigger brother, the sleek Mazda6 saloon, with its mix of curves and creases.
Up front, the Mazda3 loses the 'smile' of its predecessor and takes on the brand's new blunt nose as well as a bold five-point grille leading into thin, swept-back headlights.
A sweeping shoulder line flows gracefully along the sides and ends in a somewhat softer, less distinctive rear-end treatment.
This combination of an aggressive front grille, crisp edges, swooping curves, and hunkered-back cabin makes the attractive small car look taut and sporty.
Interior
At a quick glance, the new Mazda3's interior may come across as rather plain, but spend a bit more time in it and you'll be rather impressed.
The solid and well-built cabin exudes a snug feeling and boasts upscale materials with unbeatable assembly quality as well as an understated and elegant overall design.
Unlike the outgoing model, which had a pretty dated centre console with many controls clustered together, the new Mazda3's cabin enhances the fact that less is more.
Buttons are kept to a minimum and are logically placed for easy access while the 7.0-inch TFT LCD multimedia system provides the driver with audio entertainment, navigational help as well as a reverse camera.
At a quick glance, the new Mazda3's interior may come across as rather plain, but spend a bit more time in it and you'll be rather impressed.
The solid and well-built cabin exudes a snug feeling and boasts upscale materials with unbeatable assembly quality as well as an understated and elegant overall design.
Unlike the outgoing model, which had a pretty dated centre console with many controls clustered together, the new Mazda3's cabin enhances the fact that less is more.
Buttons are kept to a minimum and are logically placed for easy access while the 7.0-inch TFT LCD multimedia system provides the driver with audio entertainment, navigational help as well as a reverse camera.
Taking the level of sophistication even higher, the new Mazda3 also features an Active Driving Display (Deluxe trim) or more commonly known as a head-up display in other premium cars.
There is 60mm more wheelbase in the new Mazda3 as compared with the outgoing model, and the wheels have been pushed as far into each corner as possible.
The result is a roomy interior, with plenty of space in the back for three adults to sit comfortably as well as a pretty decent luggage compartment of 414 litres.
The Drive
Like the tight cockpit feel, everything feels closer and more driver-focused than in the previous model. It's like the Mazda3 has grown up into a wholly more serious car.
The 1.5-litre SkyActiv-G engine under the hood of the new Mazda3 is a peppy one. The engine pulls well from low revs and gathers pace with just enough enthusiasm to pass muster for everyday driving.
While not as slick as a dual-clutch, the Mazda3's six-speed automatic provides brisk gear changes, and the paddle shifters add to the driving involvement.
Other efficient technologies, such as the i-Stop idling stop system and the i-Eloop regenerative braking system, work together with the engine to assist the Mazda3 in its fuel saving quest. Although we only managed 11.9km/L during our test run, which is rather far from the stated figure of 17.5km/L, this was achieved with a rather heavy right foot.
The new Mazda3 doesn't disappoint with its handling, too. The well-tuned suspension allows you to chuck the car into corners with agility and total confidence.
Like the tight cockpit feel, everything feels closer and more driver-focused than in the previous model. It's like the Mazda3 has grown up into a wholly more serious car.
The 1.5-litre SkyActiv-G engine under the hood of the new Mazda3 is a peppy one. The engine pulls well from low revs and gathers pace with just enough enthusiasm to pass muster for everyday driving.
While not as slick as a dual-clutch, the Mazda3's six-speed automatic provides brisk gear changes, and the paddle shifters add to the driving involvement.
Other efficient technologies, such as the i-Stop idling stop system and the i-Eloop regenerative braking system, work together with the engine to assist the Mazda3 in its fuel saving quest. Although we only managed 11.9km/L during our test run, which is rather far from the stated figure of 17.5km/L, this was achieved with a rather heavy right foot.
The new Mazda3 doesn't disappoint with its handling, too. The well-tuned suspension allows you to chuck the car into corners with agility and total confidence.
And although the damping may be a bit on the firm side, bumps and ruts are absorbed well and the ride does not come across as jarring for occupants.
Perhaps the only negative feedback from the car was a little bit of road noise which we detected. On the flip side, we gathered some positive feedback from the sharp and well-weighted steering, which makes the Mazda3 feel solid in the settled way it engages with the road.
Conclusion
Just like how the Mazda6 is a superior car to its predecessors, so is the stylish and very smart new Mazda3, who takes the fight right to the Europeans. Although there is still some room for improvement, it's hard to find any aspect of the Mazda3 that is a deal-breaker.
Choosing a Mazda may be a step away from the mainstream, but there's a lot to like about the new Mazda3, with its handsome looks, sharp drive and smart cabin.
