| James Kon |
THE all-new Mazda3 first unveiled last year at the Los Angeles Auto Show will make its debut at the Grand Motors showroom in Beribi tomorrow.
Local media were given a chance to test drive the all-new Mazda3 Hatchback High Grade yesterday afternoon following a briefing of the car by Marketing and PR Manager of Mazda Philippines Mikko David.
The new Mazda3, powered by the latest Skyactiv engine, adds a new layer of polish to its driving dynamics, based on Mazda’s human-centric design philosophy where the next generation of Mazda driving pleasure starts.
Both 1.5- and 2.0-litre versions of the latest Skyactiv-G comprise the gasoline engine line-up for the new Mazda3. They adopt optimised intake ports and piston shape, split fuel injection and a coolant control valve to deliver higher levels of dynamic performance, fuel economy and environmental friendliness.
Both models come with the options of SKYACTIV-G 1.5 (Core Grade) or SKYACTIV-G 2.0 (High Grade) engines and were made in Japan.
The new Mazda3 is the first production model to adopt the evolved version of Kodo design of ‘less is more’. Keeping all elements other than the cockpit as simple as possible helps amplify the presence of the cockpit zone to create a comfortable environment in which the car and driver engage in a natural dialogue that enables the driver to focus on the task of driving.
Measures to deal with road noise are focussed on minimising noise and vibrations, and to make any noises transmitted when the road surface changes reach the ears of cabin occupants in a linear fashion. Sound-absorbing functionality added to the headliner and floor mats effectively suppresses high-frequency noise. This helps to amplify the quality of music within the cabin.
The 8.8-inch wide centre display in the middle of the cabin offers a simplified operation that requires only the use of the commander control. It also features a new intuitive guidance system that makes the commander control easier to operate.
For the design of both models of the new Mazda3, the development team took a fresh look at their respective values and personalities, and then worked to maximise the unique appeal of each.
The Mazda3 hatchback presents a powerful and seductive look with lasting visual appeal that evokes a sense of exciting experiences to come as a result of the attention to design. In contrast, the clean, sleek and sophisticated beauty of the sedan speaks of maturity and refinement. The result is two body types with personalities so distinct one might even think they were completely different models.
The high grade version for both Mazda3 models also has numerous safety features like traffic jam assist, 360 view monitor, blind spot monitoring, distance and speed alert, dynamic stability, with traction control system, Mazda radar cruise control and passive collision signal (hazard and brake).
The new Cruising and Traffic Support (CTS) system contributes to reducing driver fatigue by assisting with accelerator, brake pedal and steering operations when stuck in traffic jams on the highway. It also supports a safer, more reassuring and more comfortable driving experience in conditions that demand constant operation of the assisted functions.
Members of the public who want to catch a glimpse of the all new sporty Mazda3 hatchback and elegant Mazda3 sedan can attend the launching event which will kick start around 7pm.
