FOLLOWING THE RELEASE of the Mazda3 hatchback, the new Mazda3 sedan has arrived in Australia.
The distinctly different body style shares the underpinnings, advanced features, safety equipment and revised powertrains of the hatchback, adding the versatility of a bigger car and a unique trim option to accentuate its refined styling.
It also, according to some observers, looks considerably more elegant (one unkind reader of seniordriveraus suggested the rear three-quarter view of the hatchback looked like a Daewoo Lanos – ouch!)
The more elongated form of the sedan disguises the compact proportions of a small car, achieved by skilful application of Mazda’s matured Kodo design language. Designers used smooth surfaces to unite the bonnet, sides and boot and give the effect of a single, flowing brushstroke from nose to tail. Front and rear elements are simplified and horizontally oriented, emphasising the sedan’s low, wide stance.
This new design also brings practical benefits, with cargo room increased to 444 litres, up from 408 litres on the outgoing model.
In the cabin, the exterior’s simplicity is matched with streamlined instruments and premium finishes, always a hallmark of Mazda design. Pure White leather is uniquely offered for the G25 Astina.
Like the hatchback, the cabin is centred on the driver to strengthen the sense of harmony between car and driver, which Mazda calls Jinba-ittai.
The pursuit of Jinba-ittai has given rise to the development of Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, which covers a wide range of new technologies to deliver improved ride, handling and NVH performance and deliver a comfortable and quiet ride for all occupants. These technologies include a new seat design, new suspension set up, new tyre design and improved damping and insulation in the body and cabin.
The relaxed comfort of the new Mazda3 is reassured by a long list of advanced i-Activsense safety features. The standard safety kit has been overhauled to include Smart Brake Support (SBS), Lane-keep Assist System (LAS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) and Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW) – yes, another swag of acronyms!
Mazda3 also debuts newly developed Vision Technologies, standard on the top-grade G25 Astina and optional on all others, including Driver Monitoring, Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA) Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS).
Like the hatchback, the Mazda3 sedan is available with a choice of two advanced powertrains that offer improved efficiency and performance.
The new iterations of the Skyactiv-G 2.0L and Skyactiv-G 2.5L petrol engines feature redesigned intake ports and piston shapes, split fuel-injection and a coolant control valve, all contributing to enhanced combustion performance and environmental friendliness.
Skyactiv-G 2.5L also benefits from cylinder deactivation to improve fuel economy, and it makes gains in power and torque. Power is boosted from 138kW to 139kW and torque is lifted from 250Nm to 252Nm.
Mazda3 sedan is offered in six grades, all available with a choice of six-speed Skyactiv-MT manual or a six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission.
There are seven body colour options for the sedan, including Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Machine Grey Metallic, Snowflake White Pearl Mica, Sonic Silver Metallic, Deep Crystal Blue Mica, Jet Black Mica and Titanium Flash Mica. Mazda has been almost unique in not charging for premium paint finishes (other than its hero Rose colour, but for the Mazda3, three finishes now attract a $496 premium).
Mazda3 sedan and hatchback are on sale now and come with Mazda’s five-year warranty and five-year Mazda Premium Roadside Assistance as standard.
Once we have tested and assessed the new Mazda3, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.
Mazda3 pricing:
| GRADE | MANUAL | AUTOMATIC |
| G20 Pure | $24,990 | $25,990 |
| G20 Evolve | $26,690 | $27,690 |
| G20 Touring | $28,990 | $29,990 |
| G25 Evolve | $29,490 | $30,490 |
| G25 GT | $33,490 | $34,490 |
| G25 Astina | $36,990 | $37,990 |
Options:
Vision Technology:
|
$1,500 |
Premium metallic paint:
|
$495 |