European Press Launch, Barcelona 

I think it is fair to say that the current Mazda3, which is the second-generation, is a bit dull looking. It’s equally fair to say that it looked old-fashioned and out of date on the day it was launched. Therefore it was never going to be a big success or sell in any large numbers. Although having said that, the 1st and 2nd Generation Mazda3 has managed to sell 3.6 million units worldwide.

So for the new car, Mazda had to look to the future and not to the past for inspiration for the design of both the exterior and interior for this all-new C-Sector Hatch and they certainly seem to have achieved this.

Mazda for some reason, probably cultural, quite openly use their own terminology when describing their cars or details of their cars. They then have to explain in more straightforward terms what it means. Such as the KODO look, which in their words means ‘an uncompromisingly, alluring look for an uncompromisingly competitive market evolving the boldness of Mazda’s new-generation design theme to the brimming vitality of its sporty compact hatchback, or Soul of Motion’. Which is a bit wordy, but the Japanese know it as KODO. Then they say “Jinba lttai” which “reflects the rider and horse as one feeling”. But despite all these words, the new Mazda3 can be described in a lot less words “it breathes a breath of fresh air into the C-Segment”.

The new Mazda3 is nothing at all like its predecessor, not in any way at all. It is a great looking car from every angle and it’s difficult to decide just which angle is the best. It’s obvious that the designers have left nothing to chance. They have created a car that is difficult to dislike in terms of style and design. The Press Pack does use plenty of words to describe the design features, but it’s much simpler to say that it is a very handsome car.

The interior is also well thought out, with so many nice touches and features. There is so much new technology crammed in, it’s a geeks dream. Although the technology might be advanced, it is all easily useable and has some very handy and useful equipment.

We drove the car from Sitges up into the hills above Barcelona and through some very pretty and quaint Spanish villages. It felt at home on any road surface and rode the lumps and bumps very well, with no squeaks and rattles from anywhere. It went round the twisty mountain roads as if it was on rails and handled more like a sports car than a C-Sector hatch. The steering was very positive and the brakes were light but very responsive. The car felt safe and solid and a joy to drive. 

The new Mazda3 is available with either a SKYACTIV-G 1.5 or 2.0 petrol engine that produces power ranging from 100ps to 165ps, but by far the most popular will be the SKYACTIV-D 2.2-litre diesel. 

As just about every other manufacturer is downsizing their engines, such as going from 2.0 or 1.7 to 1.6, Mazda have decided to just offer the 2.2 and nothing smaller will be available. Whilst the SKYACTIV-D engine offers loads of benefits such as low Co2 of 107g/km, good fuel consumption and a healthy power output of 150ps. It is still a 2.2 and that could put many off, as good as it is. The new and used car buyer are now getting used to buying smaller capacity engines and the thought of this 2.2 could have an adverse effect on sales. Therefore Mazda are going to have to work hard on getting the emissions, MPG and power message across. 

Although I have only mentioned the Hatch, it has to be noted that a four-door will also be available at launch in the autumn and will be known as the Fastback. This could also cause confusion due to the fact that in recent times in the UK, Fastbacks have been based off the 5 door tailgate configuration. Although in the UK, this sector has always struggled with a saloon version, unless it’s from a German premium brand. Whilst in Spain I didn’t drive or even sit in the Fastback as the Hatch, in my opinion, is the one to have. 

There are so many things to like about the new Mazda3, it speaks for itself and does not need all the words that Mazda insist on using to describe it. It really should be offered with a smaller diesel, although that is unlikely to happen. The quality and materials used throughout are exceptional.

Prices for the new Mazda3 Hatch start from £16,695 OTR, but the 2.2d ranges from £19,245.00 OTR to £23,345.00 OTR

Martin Ward, CAP Manufacturing Relationship Manager