The new Mazda 3 heads to SA in 2019

The new Mazda 3 heads to SA in 2019

The Mazda 3 has been around fora long time and in fact Mazda has now released the fourth-generation model.

The reason the Mazda 3 has been such a success is because it is consistently a class-leader when it comes to value for money. The new Mazda 3 comes with many new features to help it retain its class leading smallfamily car status.

Price and engine specs

Five different trims are available for the Mazda 3, including the option of a sedan or hatchback, and a 6-speedmanualor automatic transmission. The five trims available for the Mazda 3 and prices are as follows:

• Mazda 3 Original starting @R272 000, 1.6 liter 77kW petrol engine
• Mazda 3 Active starting @R285 600, 1.6 liter 77kW petrol engine
• Mazda 3 Dynamic starting @R299 300, 1.6 liter 77kW petrol engine
• Mazda 3 Individual starting @R348 700, 2.0 liter 121kW petrol engine
• Mazda 3 Astina starting @R397 600, 2.0 liter 121kW petrol engine

Mazda has announced SkyActiv-X engines that will be available with the new Mazda 3. SkyActiv-Xallows the engine to operate in two different ways: The spark plugs can burn like a normal petrol engine when power is needed, and then can operate like a diesel-type compression spark plug to improve fuel consumption. This new technology is combined with a supercharger in the 2.0 liter engines and manages to push out 187 hp and 230Nm of torque.

Exterior and interior features

The Mazda 3 looks familiar to its predecessor, but also manages to look more like a concept Mazda with a long bonnet, low sloping roofline and teardrop shaped back window.The sedan version is almost 8cm longer, and the hatchback is 1.2cm lower than before to give a sportier look. The Mazda 3 is also available in a new Polymetal Grey colour.

The interior has been updated and is built with high quality materials. Everything is expected to be where it should be when you sit inside and is an easy cabin to get familiar with.Mazda has added a larger 8.8 inch screen above the dashboard, which is controlled by a knob in the centre console. The speaker layout has been redisigned to get the most out of the standard 8-speaker Mazda audio system, however there is also a more powerful 12-speaker Bose Sound System.The Mazda 3 has many safety features such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, standard automated emergency braking and automatic high-beam headlights.

Verdict for the 2019 Mazda 3

So far, the Mazda 3 looks interesting and is surprisingly technologically advanced with clever SkyActiv-X engines. The upcoming Mazda 3 is also very attractive and should make a good rival for even some of the small German hatchbacks and sedans from Audi, BMW and Mercedes, but at a much more affordable price than the German competitors. Overall the Mazda 3 is extremely good value for money, with great safety ratings and features, good looks, fairly spacious practicality and class leading performance with fuel efficiency combined technology.

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