The next-generation Mazda3 is here

Mazda has been using the phrase “Zoom-Zoom” since 2000 when a young boy whispered the phrase against a musical backdrop of African-inspired music. That ad campaign did wonders for the brand and the concomitant sales.

Now stand by for the phrase “Jinbai-Ittai”. This new Mazda’s human-centric philosophy looks at the driver and vehicle as one. For this, you have to imagine a rider on a horse. The horse is sprinting and the rider has bow and arrow in hand and is still able to shoot the target accurately, all in one fluid motion. That is Jinbai-Ittai, a Japanese phrase.Mazda has dramatically enhanced the car's fundamental driving attributes such that accelerating, turning and braking feel completely natural. Based on the concept of recreating a natural state for humans in the car, all components – from the seats and body through to the suspension and tyres – are designed to work together as one.

The seventh-generation Mazda3 sets a new milestone as the first production model to lead Mazda into a bold new era. Blending beautiful design and exhilarating driving dynamics, the Mazda3 was developed to inspire and create an emotional bond and deep engagement with its customers.

Says Craig Roberts, managing director at Mazda Southern Africa, “The Mazda3 is a strategic model that has driven Mazda’s growth from both a brand and business perspective. Our mission is to build on this legacy and deliver a product that will exceed both customer expectations and industry standard with the next-generation Mazda3, which will enhance the value of the car-ownership experience.”

Japanese aesthetics

There are no points for guessing that this is a Japanese product, and with that comes Japanese culture and influence. One such is the KODO design language that embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics. While the overall design presents a simple, single form, subtle undulations bring the styling to life through shifting light and reflections that glide over the body surface.

The result is a richer and more powerful expression of vigour. Despite sharing the Mazda3 name, the hatch and sedan models have distinct personalities - the design of the hatch is dynamic, whilst the sedan is elegant.

Mazda’s further evolved design is skilfully applied to the sedan’s hood, cabin and boot and evokes an air of elegance and sense of sleekness. The body features a horizontal flow that accentuates the look of a wide and low stance while presenting a calmness that appeals to a sophisticated audience.

In contrast, the hatch is meant to be sportier and racier, featuring aggressive body sides and C-pillars that do away with traditional body lines and adopt constantly shifting reflections. The hatch design is topped with a roofline that suggests speed and helps express a powerful presence.

Improved interior

Gone are those hard plastic materials previously used. Now there is a soft-touch feel that adds to the comfort and general appeal of the interior. Mazda’s design ethos continues with an all-new interior and cockpit environment that delivers a perfect fit and connectedness while driving. Inside the cabin, the new Mazda3 driver will experience an improved reduction to external noise.

The vehicle’s uncluttered cockpit, which is a huge plus for me in any vehicle, has controls and switches with a consistent feel that provides the driver with simple operation of the cabin.

This new configuration provides a more natural feeling for any driver. The new Mazda3 offers two interior colour options. First is the recognised black interior colour that emanates strength and sophistication.

Then, exclusive to the Mazda3 hatch is the new optional burgundy red leather seat trim, which offers a vivid appearance that heightens the emotion of the exterior design.

Tech advancements

Mazda3 is reportedly the first to introduce an all-new 8.8-inch Mazda Connect infotainment screen supporting MZD Connect, which comes standard on all of the newer models.

Also standard is a three-way layout 8-speaker sound system from the Active model, and the BOSE 12-speaker layout from the Individual model. Standard features such as the 7-inch TFT reconfigurable gauge cluster display, Bluetooth phone and audio pairing, remote keyless entry, push-button ignition, auto door lock, auto headlights and wipers, electronic parking brake, new knee air bags and two USB audio inputs, elevates the Mazda3 to the next level.

Among the long list of standard features, driver and passenger one touch windows, LED headlamps and headlamp levelling and from the Dynamic Model Rear Parking Sensors and Cruise Control ar included.

Dynamic driving

The powertrain lineup comprises the latest Skyactiv-G 1.5L and 2.0L engines, each of which provides responsive speed control in any driving situation. The seventh-generation Mazda3 will be available to the Southern Africa market in more succinct package options, meant to appeal to a wide range of customers. As an entry package option, the Active derivative will be available with a 1.5L engine in manual transmission. The Dynamic 1.5L engine in both manual and automatic transmissions will package the core offering, while the Individual 1.5L in both manual and automatic transmissions and Astina 2.0L in automatic will make up the higher package offering.

Most important...the safety

Mazda’s commitment to safety was acknowledged with a maximum five-star rating by Euro NCAP earlier this year. Mazda dedicated every effort to maximising occupant safety in the new Mazda3 by installing active safety measures to help identify potential risks early on and reduce any chance of damage or injury. These include the wide adoption of Mazda’s advanced safety technologies, as well as i-ACTIVSENSE, which enables the driver to enjoy every outing, on any road condition.  

i-ACTIVSENSE combines the basic performance aspects of excellent dynamic performance with linear response and clear visibility to support the driver through all the driving processes of cognition, judgment, and operation.

Line-up and pricing

• New Mazda3 1.5L Active Manual: Hatch - R359,900 / Sedan – R357,000 (Incl VAT)
  
• New Mazda3 1.5L Dynamic Manual: Hatch - R374,200 / Sedan - R371,300 (Incl VAT). Auto 1.5L Hatch – R387,000 / Sedan - R384,100 (Incl VAT)Backed up by a three-year unlimited kilometre service plan.To provide complete peace of mind motoring, a three-year factory warranty, a three-year roadside assistance and a five-year Corrosion Warranty are also included.

What do I think?

The next-generation Mazda3 is a success story for Mazda worldwide and it’s no surprise that this derivative has become the best-selling Mazda the world over and right here in South Africa as well. It’s an all-round improved vehicle that is sure to continue its legacy with Mazda aficionados and others. Jinbai-Ittai. Aimed to please.