Previously, drivers of the Mazda3 knew they had a good car but it was still on the sidelines of mainstream popularity but that could all change with the launch of the new model.
The Mazda3 set to impress
It has been designed to take on the might of VW, Vauxhall and Ford and Mazda fans will find that the new vehicle has a lot going for it and its technology, design and comfort levels will give its competitors a run for their money.
More importantly, the new Mazda3 will be cheap to run with an impressive, fuel efficient engine range with the diesel version returning around 72 mpg (though the six speed automatic version brings the figure down to 58 mpg) and the petrol versions deliver around 55 mpg.
There’s also a range of safety improvements and driver handling is improved.
Mazda3 will cause a stir
The Mazda3 is likely to cause a stir in the massive European C-segment market, which accounts for around 25% of sales, when it is launched in January.
Prices haven’t yet been announced but potential drivers can expect the Mazda3 to have higher spec level than the VW Golf at roughly the same price.
The exterior design of the Mazda3 makes it look like it larger counterpart the Mazda6, with the same sweeping lines and it is certainly more striking than the VW Golf and the Ford Focus.
One of the big attractions for buying a Mazda is that the lower-priced models feel and look more expensive than they actually are.
The new Mazda3 is larger than the current model so it feels more spacious and is 100 mm longer than the Focus which brings more legroom for the rear passengers.
Great build quality for the Mazda3
The build quality of the Mazda3 is particularly impressive and the car will be available in nine colours with an impressive ergonomically designed driver space.
There’s also a ground breaking introduction of an active driving display, which is one of the first head-up displays in the C-segment. This means that the important data on real-time driving is in the driver’s field of view with all other information gathered in the freshly designed instrument panel.
A lot of the entertainment functions a driver may need can be reached by steering wheel controls or via voice commands. The Mazda3 also has its own specially-designed Bose sound system.
The car has not, as yet, been assessed by NCAP for it safety standards but Mazda has a great track record in this field and have introduced a number of passive safety innovations to protect people outside of the vehicle, as well as inside it.
Essentially, the Mazda3 will attract a new army of fans and offer a fresh choice for people looking for cars of this size. Mazda will be looking to build on the success of its Mazda6 which has impressed buyers and the motoring press alike.