- The All-New Mazda3 hatchback is now available to order in the UK.
- Initially offered in five trim levels and two engines, customer deliveries begin in May.
- Range will expand with the launch of the Skyactiv-X engine and the Saloon later in the year.
Having made its debut at the 2018 Los Angeles Motor Show, Mazda has announced UK pricing and specification for the All-New Mazda3 hatchback. Available to order in the UK now, the All-New Mazda3 is the first of the Japanese firm’s next-generation vehicles and reflects the very latest in Mazda’s engineering, design and manufacturing.
Offered initially with either a 122ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol or 116ps Skyactiv-D diesel engine, the UK model line-up sees a choice of five trim levels: SE-L, SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech. Mazda’s innovative Skyactiv-X Spark Controlled Compression Ignition engine and the Saloon model will join the range later in the year.
Specified with a level of standard equipment never seen before on a Mazda hatchback, the All-New Mazda3 features high-end technology such as a windscreen projecting colour head-up display with Traffic Sign Recognition, Mazda Radar Cruise Control and LED headlights across the range. Every model in the line-up also features navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an advanced eight speaker audio system.
From SE-L Lux onwards highlights include a reversing camera, smart keyless entry, heated front seats, while Sport Lux sees the high-class cabin enhanced with additional chrome detailing, a frameless rear view mirror and rear privacy glass. GT Sport sees the introduction of black leather seats with power adjustment, a heated steering wheel and Bose audio, while the range-topping GT Sport Tech features a suite of additional active safety equipment, including a 360o camera and Driver Attention Alert with interior camera.
With the exception of the flagship GT Sport Tech model, which is matched exclusively with the 122ps Skyactiv-G engine, all trims are offered with both diesel and petrol engines, while a choice between manual and automatic gearboxes is offered across the entire range. Commenting on the launch of the All-New Mazda3 Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director Mazda Motors UK said: “I’m hugely excited about this sensational new hatchback arriving in the UK this spring. It only takes one look to see just how much it moves things forward for Mazda, from the stunning evolution of our KODO design philosophy to a cabin that sets new standards for comfort, style and technology – inside and out the All-New Mazda3 has been engineered to deliver the feeling of effortless driving joy”.
The first car based on Mazda’s next generation of Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, the All-New Mazda3 takes things to the next level when it comes to handling, ride comfort and refinement. Every element from the seat, body, tyres and suspension has been developed with a human centred approach to ensure that Mazda’s famous ‘Jinba Ittai’ sense of oneness between car and driver is more finely balanced than ever before. Under the bonnet, for improved efficiency the Skyactiv-G petrol engine now features a cylinder deactivation system and Mazda’s M Hybrid 24V system. This mild-hybrid system improves fuel economy by recycling recovered kinetic energy. A belt-driven integrated starter generator (ISG) converts the energy in the 600kJ lithium-ion battery, while the DC-DC converter supplies it to the cars electrical equipment.
Inside, the stylish cabin environment takes a minimalist approach with every aspect of the cockpit laid out in perfect horizontal symmetry with the driver to deliver both ergonomic simplicity and beautiful design.
Mazda’s focus on Japanese mastery inspired craftsmanship is evident in both high-class materials found throughout the interior and the impressive build quality. All models feature a seven-inch colour TFT driver instrument display, while the latest version of Mazda’s MZD-Connect infotainment system features a larger 8.8-inch central display, improved navigation and a revised multimedia commander control dial, to name just a few of the enhancements.
Sure to turn heads when it arrives in the UK in May, the All-New Mazda3 hatchback’s exterior styling adopts a more mature interpretation of KODO design to deliver a sporty and emotional hatchback form that exemplifies Mazda’s artful design and clean Japanese aesthetics. The first production car to embody this evolution of KODO, the elimination of unnecessary character lines means the design relies instead on beautifully curved body panels that reflect the surrounding environment, while the dark metallic colouring and bold contouring of the signature wing and grille distinguish it from the forthcoming saloon model.
The All-New Mazda3’s striking hatchback proportions are further highlighted by the low nose, slender LED headlights, reduced wheel arch gaps and long wheelbase.
Offered exclusively on the hatchback, Mazda’s newest paint colour Polymetal Grey makes its debut on the All-New Mazda3. SE-L and SE-L Lux cars feature 16-inch silver wheels, while from Sport Lux onwards 18-inch Grey Metallic wheels, rear privacy glass and piano black window garnish distinguish higher grade models.
“Since its original introduction in 2003, the Mazda3 has been a big part of our success in the UK and thanks to its cutting edge technology, stunning looks and premium appeal I’m sure the All-New Mazda3 is going to resonate with customers and make its mark in this most competitive of segments, plus our award winning finance offers ensure it represents excellent value as well”, commented Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director Mazda Motors UK.