Mazda has not long released info on the all-new Mazda3 sedan, which goes with last month’s debut of the hatchback model. So here’s a mega photo gallery for you featuring over 80 images of the sedan and hatch. The third-gen Mazda3 is sure to become another worldwide sales success for the independent manufacturer.
If the photos aren’t enough, then perhaps you might like to sink your teeth into the full press kit (13.5mb PDF), which tells you everything you need to know about the new Mazda3.
For example, the A-pillars have been pushed back by 100mm in a bid to improve forward visibility. Even the shape of the pillars was fine-tuned as a result of “eye point” studies carried out by Mazda.
The Mazda3 is a global product, so here’s the thoughts of three journos from three different continents who’ve driven pre-production models in the last week or so:
Autoblog (Steven Ewing): No one will confuse the steering for anything than an electronically assisted rack, but again, Mazda knows what it’s doing here. Every compliment we’ve ever given to the Mazda6 or CX-5 about its fantastic helm can be carried over here, with a rack that weights up nicely as you carry more speed and turn the wheels harder to the left or right, while still feeling effortless and light during slow-speed maneuvering.
Autocar (Matt Burt): There’s an overall sensation of lightness about the Mazda 3. That feeling is enhanced not only by the all-round slimming that comes with the SkyActiv tech, but also by the light touch to both the pedals and steering, and the slick precision of the short-throw six-speed manual gearbox.
Drive.com.au (Stephen Ottley): The suspension is well sorted. Although the ride felt soft at times – making it comfortable to drive around town – it still felt well balanced and taut in the switchback roads we encountered. We’ll reserve final judgement until we get it onto Australia’s less-than-perfect roads, but the initial impression is the new 3 is one of the most dynamically capable small cars.
