Introducing: Mazda3 // Smaller is Better, But Only in Shape
Shortly after the world premiere in Los Angeles, we were able to see the brand new Mazda3 in Prague. They have high hopes for the car, which is Mazda's third best-selling model in Europe, so the newcomers have dedicated a number of improvements, among which elegant looks, a higher standard of quality and more efficient drive technology prevail.
In terms of design, the Mazda3 has remained true to the KODO design language, only this time it is presented in a more restrained and sophisticated version. There are fewer "cut" elements on the body because, according to the new shape, only basic strokes and smooth curves define it. From the side, the curvature of the roof is most noticeable, which begins to drop quite early and, together with the bulky C-pillar, forms a rather bulky rear part. As we were able to verify, the tax on this design feat is that the rear seats have much less headroom, and if you're taller than 185 inches, it will be difficult for you to sit in a perfect upright position. Therefore, in all other directions there should be no lack of space, since the "triplets" expanded the crotch by 5 centimeters and thus got some space inside.
First impressions after a short time in the cabin confirm Mazda's intention to try to get closer to the premium class with every model update. It is true that we had the opportunity to "touch" the most equipped version, but it should be noted that inside we find high quality materials, which are surrounded by rather refined and elegant fittings. There are practically no ventilation holes and switches, everything is "packed" into a single whole, which moves from driver to navigator. At the top is the new 8,8-inch touchscreen, which can also be operated via a larger rotary knob between the seats. As with the new Mazda6, all driver-relevant data is displayed on the new head-up screen, which is now displayed directly on the windshield rather than on a lifting plastic screen, but interestingly, the sensors remain a classic counterpart. Advanced digitization will not miss the upgrade of assistive devices, as in addition to the classic and well-proven assistive devices, they now promise an advanced pillar driving system and an assistant who will monitor the psychophysical state of the driver with an infrared camera, always tracking facial expressions. which may indicate fatigue (open eyelids, number of blinks, movement of the mouth ()).
Engine Range: Initially, the Mazda3 will be available with familiar but updated engines. The 1,8-liter turbodiesel (85 kW) and 90-liter petrol (XNUMX kW) will be joined at the end of May by the new Skyactiv-X engine, on which Mazda is betting heavily. This engine combines the basic characteristics of a diesel and a gasoline engine and combines the best of both. In practice, this means that, due to the complex system of regulating the pressure in the cylinders and with the help of other technical solutions, spontaneous ignition of a gasoline fuel mixture can occur in the same way as in a diesel engine or from a spark plug, as we are used to with gasoline. The result is better flexibility at lower speeds, greater responsiveness at higher revs and, as a result, lower fuel consumption and cleaner emissions.
The new Mazda3 can be expected in early spring and prices are expected to be slightly higher compared to current models, but with the fact that the new model will be mostly better equipped.
