The new Mazda3 , just unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show, gains particular importance, mainly due to the fact that it is the first car equipped with a gasoline engine capable of compression ignition (as in a Diesel), with the promise of significant reductions in fuel consumption. fuel, but we'll be right there...
Before, let's get to know the Mazda3 a little better, which reaches its fourth generation. It will be available in two body styles — hatchback and hatchback — and as can be seen in the hatchback, the link to the Kai, the concept that envisioned it, is clear.
It is the first application of the latest evolution of kodo language , which seeks to embody the essence of Japanese aesthetics, and which until now we've only seen in prototypes like the Kai or the Vision Coupe. This is characterized by the reduction of lines — no creases or sharp edges — the opposite of what we have observed in the industry, using subtle alterations in the modeling of surfaces, altering the behavior of light on the bodywork.
In a somewhat unprecedented way, we also witnessed more pronounced differences between the two bodies. The hatchback is not just a hatchback with an extended rear, but you can even see differences in the way the flanks were designed. According to Mazda, despite sharing the Mazda3 name, "the hatchback and the sedan have distinct personalities — the hatchback design is dynamic, the sedan elegant."
In addition to the new and more mature interpretation of Kodo, the new Mazda3 also debuts the new SKYACTIV-Vehicle Architecture , a designation that ends up covering a series of structural components, from the base itself — stiffer and more refined (less noise and vibrations) — to the new seats, which maintain the natural curvature of the column.
SKYACTIV-X, revolution in combustion engines
The new Mazda3 will be available with petrol and diesel engines, namely the SKYACTIV-G, with capacities of 1.5 l and 2.0 l, and SKYACTIV-D, which includes the new 1.8 l, debuted by the Mazda CX-3.
But the big news is the new and revolutionary SKYACTIV-X , a 2.0 l gasoline engine, the first ever (in a production car) to allow compression-ignition, like a Diesel, promising fuel reductions of 20% to 30%, with fuel consumption capable of rivaling its own. Diesel. The benefits in consumption and emissions are enhanced by the presence of a semi-hybrid system (mild-hybrid).
We still don't have the specs on this and the other engines, but taking into account what we experienced firsthand a little over a year ago (see highlight), behind the wheel of one of the prototypes, the new SKYACTIV-X left high expectations, given its responsiveness, availability of torque and resourcefulness in climbing the revs.
As with the current generation, two transmissions will be available, a six-speed manual gearbox and an automatic, also with six speeds. In other markets, the 2.5 SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine will be available, with all-wheel drive — it remains to be confirmed whether or not it will reach Europe and, more specifically, Portugal.
strategic value
Since 2003, the year in which the first Mazda3 was launched, more than six million units have been sold, making it a strategic global model for the brand, vital for its growth, both at the brand and at the business level.
interior
Entering the new Mazda3, the dashboard design reflects the exterior, reducing visual complexity, following the principle “less is more”, with a strong focus on horizontality and with all controls being oriented towards the driver.
The center console is topped by an 8.8″ touchscreen that also debuts the new infotainment system, which can also be controlled via a rotary command placed behind the gearbox knob.
An interior with less noise intrusion is also expected, thanks not only to the new structure, but also to the presence of materials with better soundproofing capabilities that cover the ceiling and floor. Mazda also announces better visibility thanks to slimmer A-pillars.
At the moment, there isn't much more information about the new Mazda3, so we'll have to wait a little longer to get all the details. Its arrival on the market should take place in the first months of 2019.