The Mazda3 has always garnered a good deal of respect for its eye-catching design and entertaining dynamics. Now Mazda hopes to up the game in 2012 by introducing a series of cosmetic and dynamic enhancements.
In terms of exterior changes, the Mazda3 now features enlarged front air dam fascias with rounded foglamps in the lower section and a more low-slung, outwardly projecting front spoiler lip. The back of the 5-door model also sees the rear bumper narrowed and tucked in by 30 mm with the rear reflectors moved further towards the outside edge to lend the car a greater sense of visual width. The refresh also brings in a brace of new 16- (Active model) and 17-inch (Dynamic and Individual models) alloy wheel designs as well as three new colours, Sky Blue Mica, Dolphin Grey Mica and Indigo Lights Mica, to go along with the existing colour selection of Velocity Red Mica, Chrystal White Pearl Mica, Aluminium Metallic, Graphite Mica and Black Mica.
Updates to the Mazda3’s interior include replacing sliver trim accents in the lower facia with black while adopting a satin silver finish to the ringed dials and controls, the replacement of the red LCD display with white graphics and revised cloth seat finishes in Original and Active models.
On the ride and handling fronts, the updated Mazda3 now features an enhanced array of driver aids, with Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) as standard fitment on Individual spec models. There’s also a new brace bar to improve structural rigidity and changes to have been made to the MacPherson strut/multi-link rear suspension as well as the power steering to further improve handling and comfort. Mazda also claims improvements in NVH over the new model thanks to a new B-frame and improved welding on key joints.
The Mazda3 range comprises four specification levels:
Original: the entry-level offering features manual air-conditioning, a single disc CD player with MP3 capability, front power windows with one-touch operation for driver and keyless entry. ABS brakes with EBD, as well as driver and passenger airbags.
Active: adds an ambient temperature display, overhead console with sunglass holder and power windows with one-touch operation on driver side, side and curtain airbags and a wide-angle mirror to the Original spec.
Dynamic: as per Active but adds auto headlamps, sliding centre console with leather armrest, rain sensing wipers, multi-info display, multifunction steering wheel, power folding mirrors and keyless entry and go.
Individual: this range-topping spec includes dual zone climate control, cruise control, a power sliding glass roof with keyless control and one-touch operation.
The Mazda3 range is covered by a four-year/120 00 km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan with roadside assistance.
Pricing:
Mazda3 1,6 Original R210 650
Mazda3 1,6 Active R225 280
Mazda3 1,6 Dynamic R244 440
Mazda3 2,0 Individual R288 920
Mazda3 Sport 1,6 Original R210 650
Mazda3 Sport 1,6 Active R225 280
Mazda3 Sport 1,6 Dynamic R244 440
Mazda3 Sport 2,5 Individual R297 950
Mazda3 2,3 DISI Turbo MPS R342 090
