Mazda Philippines is set to make a big splash in the compact car market soon.
After making its global debut late last year in Los Angeles, the next-generation Mazda3 has officially been previewed in the Philippines. Featuring a more mature-looking Kodo design language, along with a simpler and minimalistic interior, the all-new Mazda3 blends a high-tech powertrain with stylish looks in a practical and compact package.
Available in both the sedan and hatchback models, the all-new Mazda3 features a rounder, more aerodynamic look than its predecessors. The front fascia got an evolutionary redesign and comes with a huge front grill, sharper LED headlights, and a low-slung front bumper.
Receiving a dramatic makeover, however, is the rear. It gets a new set of taillights, along with a redesigned tailgate and rear bumper that further highlight its sportier nature. But what sets this new Mazda3 from the old one is its bolder-looking rear quarters that show off the car’s rounder look compared to before. Finally, huge 18-inch alloy wheels serve as the finishing touch on the new Mazda3.
Inside, the automaker introduced a simpler, yet more ergonomic cabin layout for the Mazda3. A new 8.8-inch floating infotainment display, as well as a revised center stack and climate control, give it a fresh yet familiar look. The rotary-style knob and controls for the infotainment display have been updated as well for a more intuitive function.
Other changes introduced on the Mazda3 include new leather upholstery, more comfortable seats, a sportier three-spoke steering wheel and dashboard, and redesigned gauges.
Exact specifications and pricing of the all-new Mazda3 have yet to be revealed. What we do know is that the 2019 Mazda3 will still come with a choice of SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engines. There is no word, however, if the SkyActiv-X powertrain will be made available when Mazda officially launches the all-new model. Like the outgoing model, we’re also expecting the Mazda3 to be equipped with improved SkyActiv automatic transmissions too.
Apart from the Mazda3’s new look inside and out, the next-generation compact also adopts the new SkyActiv-Vehicle Architecture. With it, Mazda claims that it will deliver improved handling, better riding comfort and superior body rigidity.
There is no exact date or timeline yet as to when Mazda Philippines will start selling the all-new Mazda3. However, the company did mention that there are no more stocks of the old Mazda3 at any of their dealerships. This could indicate that the next-gen compact could make its Philippine debut sooner than later.