The Japanese car maker has done it again, by producing yet another bold car in the new Mazda3. Having aspired to drive this car as a young intern a few years back, being introduced to the 7th generation Mazda3 was one for the books.
We got acquainted with the new Mazda3 at the recent launch in Johannesburg and boy was it a celebration of the return of a legend. I wasn’t too chuffed with the location because as you know Jozi is synonymous with tedious traffic but this helped in experiencing what everyday life would be like in the new Mazda3, as I imagine it to be a city gal. The Mazda3 comes in two engines, the 1.5 litre which produces 88kW and 153Nm and the 2.0 litre producing 121 kW and 213Nm.
The six speed manual gearbox handled the traffic quite well, the gear shifts are smooth and make for an easy drive but it must be noted that both the 1.5 and 2.0 felt a little underpowered which can be attributed to the high Gauteng altitude. Aiming at the likes of VW Golf and Audi A3, and of course the Hyundai i20 and Accent, the Mazda 3 knows all too well that it has to fight for its place.
What do I think? I think it is easy to forgive the Mazda3 for the lack of vooma because it shines so much in other areas. The looks, especially the hatch which is much cooler and sportier, would definitely get you a bae. The grille’s update is visibly striking, sexier than the predecessor. I don’t know about the sedan, all I can say is, I would get it for my Mom. The hatch is where it’s at kahle kahle!
Interior
The theme of designing the Mazda3 is “object of universal desire” and that is evident in this product’s interior which is more refined. The new Mazda3 is now equipped with a Head-Up display – windshield display, a 7-inch Meter cluster, and electronic parking brake. The cabin is much more clean and uncluttered compared to the predecessor, with the aim being less driver distractions. I was especially impressed with the boot space of both the hatch and the sedan. The infotainment system is not touchscreen but has Apple Carplay and Android auto, there is also a CD player – how do I explain this to the millennials? I will get back to you.
Safety features
Mazda has made sure that in creating this next generation design, you get your money’s worth in the safety department. A smart keyless entry, auto door lock and most useful in those busy Jozi streets blind spot monitoring. Of course they didn’t leave out the basics, hill launch assist, emergency brake assist, driver, passenger, knee, side and curtain airbags.
The new generation Mazda3 is available in eight colours, do yourself a favour and look out for the polymetal grey, thank me later.
Model and Pricing
- Mazda3 1.5L Active Manual Hatch – R359 900
- Mazda3 1.5L Active Manual Sedan – R357 000
- Mazda3 1.5L Dynamic Manual Hatch – R374 200
- Mazda3 1.5L Dynamic Manual Sedan – R371 300
- Mazda3 1.5L Auto Hatch – R434 700
- Mazda3 1.5L Auto Sedan – R 431 600
- Mazda3 2.0L Astina Auto Hatch – R474 000
- Mazda3 2.0L Astina Auto Sedan – R470 800
