The all-new 2014 Mazda3 compact five-door was revealed to the world today during an event in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. After weeks of media speculation and numerous “leaked” images of enthusiast renderings, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) pulled the sheet off the highly-anticipated redesign and confirmed the car will be on sale this fall.
The all-new Mazda3 is engineered with the full complement of SKYACTIV®1 technologies – a proprietary suite of fuel-efficient, performance-driven components and manufacturing philosophies – as well as the handsome styling of the KODO design language. Other launch events also were held in Melbourne, Istanbul, St. Petersburg and London to debut the new vehicle, as well as celebrate the 10th year of Mazda3 production.
“With more than 3.5 million vehicles sold globally, the Mazda3 is the brand’s best-selling and most recognizable name plate, and its redesign for 2014 shows just how much attention to detail and care we put into this important vehicle,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. “SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and KODO have performed as advertised and received critical acclaim, with even more technologies and materials to be introduced with the 2014 Mazda3. On the heels of the launch of the 2013 CX-5 compact crossover SUV last fall and the 2014 Mazda6 early this year, this is an exciting time for Mazda, and we’re only getting started.”
Lower and leaner than its predecessor, this third generation Mazda3 shares almost nothing with its older siblings other than a name. All new from the ground up, the 2014 Mazda3 sits on a wheelbase of 106.3 inches, which is 2.4 inches longer than the previous generation, yet the five-door is 1.8 inches shorter in length at 175.6 inches.
With a height of 57.3 inches and a width of 70.7 inches, the Mazda3 reduces its ceiling by 0.6 inches and gains 1.6 inches in the hips while retaining similar headroom space and offering rear legroom at 35.8 inches. The rear seatbacks are nearly 2.0 inches taller for added passenger comfort. Front and rear shoulder room also has increased to 57.2 and 54.4 inches, respectively. This efficient use of space is wrapped in the increasingly striking dimensions of KODO, Mazda’s “Soul of Motion” approach to designs that exude emotional proportions and refined strength.
Expressive and Enticing, Inside Out
Whether equipped with the standard 16-inch full-cover steel wheels or higher trim-equipped 16-inch and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, each set expresses dynamic motion from hub to rim. The Mazda3’s cab rearward posture and raked profile further emphasize agility and speed.
From the dynamic signature wing of the five-point grille to the expansive sheet metal cresting over sleekly slanted headlamps, from the wide-stance muscular fenders to the taut character lines flowing from panel to panel, sculpting into a chiseled rear featuring provoking taillights, KODO begets the Mazda3 a presence unlike any other. Yet such style is not without purpose as the five-door and sedan models achieve best-in-class coefficient of drag (Cd) at 0.275 and 0.255, respectively, when equipped with i-ELOOP and an active grille shutter.
A new-to-Mazda feature, an active grille shutter is mounted in front of the radiator and automatically opens and closes in accordance with driving conditions to improve aerodynamic performance while contributing to real-world gains in fuel economy.
To be available in eight colors, including the premium metallic finish Soul Red Metallic, two all-new Mazda hues are introduced with Titanium Flash Mica and Deep Crystal Blue Mica.
The interior is no less impressive, starting with the driver-oriented cockpit. The pedals have been laid out symmetrically to the left and right of the driver’s center-line with a hinged organ-type accelerator pedal as standard for added safety and comfort.
Designed not only to appeal to the senses, each control and function also is specifically placed with intuitive utility in mind. The less time spent focusing on adjusting knobs and tapping touch-screen commands, the more time a driver is engaged with the actual act of driving, being alert to what is on the road ahead and, therefore, being able to react quickly, accurately and safely.
For added precision, the base of the A-pillars have been repositioned 3.9 inches rearward to afford greater range of vision for both the driver and front passenger. The outside mirrors also are mounted onto the doors instead of the base of the A-pillar to expand the scope of visibility when looking over mirrors from the driver’s seat.
All-new for Mazda vehicles and being launched with the 2014 Mazda3 will be a next-generation human-machine interface (HMI) system. Based on the heads-up cockpit concept, the new HMI system aims to help drivers maintain proper posture, concentrate on the road and drive more safely, even while handling larger amounts of information. The information used is divided into groups, and an innovative screen layout is employed to let the driver safely balance the primary job of driving with other peripheral information.
The 2014 Mazda3 also is the first vehicle to feature Mazda’s all-new Active Driving Display, a clear pop-up panel that displays vehicle speed, navigation directions and other important driving information, and is vertically mounted behind the meter hood. This feature not only places necessary information comfortably in the driver’s line-of-sight but also directs the display beyond the instrument panel, more in line with where a driver’s eyes are naturally focused. The Active Driving Display panel will automatically fold back into a hidden position when the ignition is shut off.
The redesigned meter cluster features a centrally positioned analog gauge flanked by a pair of wing-shaped digital displays. The dial face for the center gauge is characterized by three-dimensional metallic numerals, evidence of the design teams’ attentiveness to detail, while its red-ring border pulses as soon as the driver’s door is opened, a nod to the vehicle’s inescapable sporty DNA. From the gauge clusters extends a decorative dash panel finished in satin chrome with piano black trim pieces adorning select areas of the center console and front door inserts.
The seat architecture has been redesigned with added focus on comfort and space, while at the same time reducing weight. For example, the front seat backs were further sculpted to provide rear seat passengers more knee room than the previous generation Mazda3, and shoulder room for all passengers increased as well. Additionally, the driver’s seat cushion was made larger, while still optimizing the seat back to create a more natural seating position with ample lateral support, a welcome adjustment for those prone to long drives.
Available in cloth (Black, Sand), leatherette (Black) and leather (Black, Almond) seat materials, the multitude of exterior and interior color combinations and accents further showcases the attention made to the finer touch points and to the varying degree of consumer preferences.
Stay Connected While On the Go
Mazda’s infotainment system receives its own sort of overhaul as well. With the increasing popularity of smartphones and tablet computers, lifestyles, and subsequently driving habits, have changed. To ensure that consumers can continue to be connected in real time with their online community regardless of where they are, Mazda has developed is new operating system to be intuitive and less distracting, which leads to an overall safer and more pleasurable driving experience.
The new operating system connects via Bluetooth® to a smartphone and can easily be updated to ensure users always have access to the latest features and services without the need to swap out hardware. In addition to the current music access points via standard AM/FM radio, CD and USB/auxiliary port connections and premium content such as Sirius® Satellite Radio, new features such as internet-based apps Aha by HARMAN™ will be available. An optional Bose® premium audio system with Centerpoint® 2 virtual surround sound playback will bring the harmonies and vocals to life for even the most discerning of audiophiles.
The system also can read email and short messages aloud while the vehicle is in motion using text-to-voice technology. Short Message Service (SMS) messages can be received and shown on the touch screen monitor. The system can then articulate the messages as well as allow users to send replies using fixed phrases. A new speech recognition system also allows users to repeat and shuffle audio tracks, as well as search and select folders. When connected with a smartphone, Twitter® and Facebook updates can be read by the system with audio responses available using the Shout function. The system also allows users to search the internet for locations and map directions. An SD card-based navigation system is optional.
SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY Leads the Way
The long relationship between Mazda, the brand, and Zoom-Zoom, the anthem, is no secret. Jinba Ittai, the oneness between car and driver, is a long-standing brand philosophy, an essence, which is built into every Mazda ever engineered – whether for leisurely drives within the cul-de-sac community or hot laps around a track. With the Mazda3, a vehicle that is sold in more than 120 countries and accounts for 30 percent of the company’s annual global sales, this connection is even more important and made even more precise.
For the North American market, the 2014 Mazda3 will be offered with two engine choices: the currently-offered SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine and a new SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine, as fitted to the CX-5 and 2014 Mazda6. Globally, the Mazda3 offers the widest SKYACTIV powertrain line-up in order to meet local market demands, and will be available with SKYACTIV-G 1.5- to 2.5-liter-sized gasoline engines, a SKYACTIV-D 2.2-liter clean diesel engine and as a hybrid electric vehicle (Japan only).
Both engines feature a new high-tumble-port 4-2-1 exhaust system that increases engine output. The SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter produces 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. As compared to the outgoing MZR 2.5-liter engine, the torque output on the SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine at low- to mid-range speeds is increased by 10 to 15 percent, and its weight is reduced by 10 percent. The SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter produces a peak of 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm, both figures are increases of more than 10 percent over the MZR engine.
The 2014 Mazda3 will be available with a choice of the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual and SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmissions. SKYACTIV-MT offers the short, crisp shift pattern reminiscent of the MX-5 Miata. SKYACTIV-Drive achieves a direct shift feel and quick gear changes that contribute to quick acceleration, while maximizing the best features of a direct-shift gearbox and a conventional torque-converter system.
Mazda’s unique i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system employs a capacitor to store electricity generated when the vehicle decelerates. Brake energy regeneration systems improve fuel economy by reducing the inherent parasitic drag of the alternator when possible, to maximize the efficiency of the vehicle under all modes of operation. Unlike other battery-based systems, i-ELOOP, its name derived from “Intelligent Energy Loop,” is the world’s first capacitor-based system to power all of a vehicle’s electrical components.
The added combination of the SKYACTIV-Body and SKYACTIV-Chassis enhances the Jinba Ittai spirit by offering high-performance, lightweight materials for added strength and safety. Carefully engineered load-transfer ensures a firm grip on the road that the driver can sense. The SKYACTIV-Body provides increased rigidity of 30 percent compared to the previous model while reducing weight as well.
Although variable from market to market, the expanded use of high tensile-strength steel, and the complete reevaluation of more than 300 separate components, has led to significant weight savings.
Straight line stability, tire grip and ride comfort have been greatly improved by tuning the suspension system’s springs, dampers and stabilizers. Mazda’s new mechatronic column-type electric power assist steering system is compact and lightweight, with a gearing ratio of 14.0:1. The brake response also was improved to be even more responsive, allowing for excellent vehicle control and feel as well as a braking distance amongst the best in the segment. Such improvements also reduce rolling resistance, all improving fuel economy.
A new lightweight material that exhibits a high level of noise absorption is introduced on the dash insulator and floor mats, and insulating material also is positioned for maximum effectiveness behind the instrument panel. These measures achieve a level of cabin quietness that is highly competitive within the compact car class, and fully comparable in a class-above vehicle.
Safety Features Without Compare
The 2014 Mazda3 introduces several all-new safety systems under the umbrella known as i-ACTIVSENSE. These technologies use sensing devices such as milliwave radars and cameras to support the driver in recognizing hazards, avoiding collisions and minimizing damage, should accidents occur. While these systems will not eliminate accidents, their intent is to minimize them and reduce the severity of a crash.
The features available under i-ACTIVSENSE for North America are:
- High Beam Control (HBC) – The system automatically switches the headlamps between high and low beams.
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) – This safety confirmation system detects objects located in blind-spot areas to the sides and rear of the vehicle and issues a visual alert within the outside mirrors for the driver to see. Should the turn signal be on for the direction in which the “blind” object is located, audible beeps will alert the driver.
- Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) – This system monitors the lane markings on the road and issues a warning to the driver when it predicts that the vehicle is going to depart from its lane.
- Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW) – This system monitors the vehicle ahead and issues both audible and visual alerts to help the driver take evasive action when it determines a high risk of collision to exist. FOW operates when traveling between speeds of 9 and 92 mph.
- Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) – When traveling at speeds of less than 19 mph, SCBS helps prevent or minimize a collision with a vehicle. Should the imbedded laser sensor detect an object, and the system calculates there may be a high risk for collision, the brake pedal travel is reduced in order to hasten braking. Should the driver fail to perform an avoidance maneuver, the system will activate an automatic braking function.
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) – The system determines the difference in speed and distance to the vehicle in front and will automatically adjust the cruising speed in order to maintain a safe distance.
Mazda Proactive Safety is Mazda’s development concept, and it aims to help the driver avoid dangerous situations before they occur by minimizing the risks that can lead to an accident. Additionally, it maximizes the range of conditions in which the vehicle can be driven safely and with peace of mind.
The SKYACTIV-Body efficiently absorbs impact energy from any direction and minimizes the chance of the cabin structure being compromised. Other standard safety features on the 2014 Mazda3 include six airbags (front, side and full side-curtain), whiplash-reducing front headrests, power-assisted ventilated front and solid rear disc brakes, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, daytime running lights, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a Traction Control System (TCS), a collapsible steering column (following air bag deployment), a trunk entrapment release system, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), three-point safety belts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters as well as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).
PRICING AND FUEL ECONOMY OF ALL-NEW 2014 MAZDA3
Starting at $16,945[1] MSRP, the redesigned compact vehicle is the brand’s best-selling and most recognizable nameplate worldwide with more than 3.5 million vehicles sold. With the full complement of SKYACTIV®[2] technologies combined with the handsome styling of the KODO “Soul of Motion” design language and all-new technologies such as the capacitor-based regenerative engine braking i-ELOOP system, the 2014 Mazda3 touts exceptional styling and best-in-class fuel economy with 41 highway mpg.
“The compact car segment is one that is competitively cutthroat, meaning there is little room for error when launching an all-new vehicle like the 2014 Mazda3,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. “But our best-selling vehicle has only gotten better, winning over the industry critics that were recently offered a behind-the-wheel experience. Yet our most important judges remain the consumers and I am confident that our third-generation Mazda3 will not disappoint.”
The Mazda3 was the first Mazda in North America to feature SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, introducing the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine as well as SKYACTIV manual and automatic transmissions in 2012. On sale in September, the 2014 Mazda3 will be offered with two SKYACTIV engine choices in the 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter gasoline engines. The standard engine on i designated trim levels (SV, Sport, Touring and Grand Touring) remains the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter, which produces 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. For s designated models, the larger SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine will be standard equipment and boasts 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm.
The sedan-only i SV is available with either the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual ($16,945 MSRP) or SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic ($17,995 MSRP) transmissions. However, this entry-level model can hardly be called “base.” Although featuring a slight price increase ($245) from the previous model year, in addition to SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, the 2014 Mazda3 i SV model offers new standard features such as push-button start, automatic power door locks, a remote keyless entry system, daytime running lights and a USB connection port. Also standard are a matte-finish front grille, 16-inch full-cover steel wheels, body-color door handles and bumpers, dual-power folding outside mirrors, power windows with driver-side one-touch down/up, a tilt-and-telescopic adjustable steering column, air conditioning with a pollen filter, trim-specific cloth sport seats, a fold-down rear seat, a four-speaker AM/FM audio system and an auxiliary input jack.
Moving up to the i Sport adds illuminated steering wheel controls, a 60/40-split fold-flat rear seat, Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio connectivity, cruise control, a trip computer, a CD player, map lights, body-colored side mirrors and a tachometer. Sport models are available in either sedan or new-for-2014 five-door form and can be fitted with either transmission. The Mazda3 i Sport four-door with SKYACTIV-MT starts at $18,445 MSRP while an identically equipped five-door starts at $18,945 MSRP. Optioning the SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic adds $1,050 for either sedan or five-door model.
Mid-level i Touring models feature all-new 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, heated body-color folding outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, bright beltline trim, a rear seat folding armrest with cup holders, the Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry & Start system, Touring-specific cloth-trimmed sport seats as well as a leather-wrapped brake handle, shift knob and three-spoke steering wheel with contrast stitching. A body-color rear deck lip spoiler becomes standard on sedans while a rear roof spoiler is fitted onto five-door models. A Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) also is standard on all i Touring models. The Mazda3 i Touring four-door with SKYACTIV-MT starts at $19,595 MSRP while the five-door version adds $500 to a starting price of $20,095 MSRP. Like iSport models, the automatic transmission can be added for $1,050, regardless of how many doors are optioned.
A Touring Technology Package ($1,600 MSRP) is available for all i Touring models. This optional package adds Mazda’s all-new human-machine interface (HMI) system featuring a seven-inch full-color touch screen display, navigation, a multi-function commander control for display screen operations, a rearview camera, a Bose® Centerpoint® 2 nine-speaker Surround Sound System with AudioPilot® 2, HD Radio™ Technology, Sirius/XM satellite radio with a four-month complimentary subscription, Aha by HARMAN™ radio integration, Pandora® internet radio compatibility, Stitcher™ internet radio integration, E911 automatic emergency notification and SMS text message receipt and delivery, two USB ports, voice command, dual zone automatic climate control, an overhead console with sunglasses holder, illuminated vanity mirrors and a shark fin antenna.
The i Grand Touring starts at $22,745 MSRP for the sedan and $23,245 MSRP for the five-door when featuring a SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission. The SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic adds $1,050 to $23,795 MSRP and $24,295 MSRP, respectively. All i Grand Touring models feature the equipment of an i Touring with SKYACTIV-Drive as well as a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with manual lumbar adjustment, leatherette seats and door panel inserts, variable heated front seats and a moonroof with a one-touch open function.
Fuel economy for all five-door models featuring the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine is rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at 29 city/40 highway/33 combined mpg with a manual transmission and 30 city/40 highway/33 combined mpg when equipped with an automatic. Sedan models are estimated[3] to offer 29 city/41 highway mpg (6MT) and 30 city/41 highway mpg (6AT).
The more powerful SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine is reserved for s models, which are available only in Touring and Grand Touring trim levels. At launch, the SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission will be the only transmission option available, but the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual is confirmed to be offered at a later date. Estimated fuel economy for the s-designated sedans is 28 city/39 highway mpg or 29 city/40 highway mpg when equipped with i-ELOOP. Five-doors are estimated to achieve 28 city/37 highway mpg or 29 city/39 highway mpg with i-ELOOP. All i and s trims deliver their fuel economies equipped with standard temporary spare tire.
Starting at $24,595 MSRP, the Mazda3 s Touring sedan is equipped not only with the robust SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine but boasts 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights with manual leveling, a piano black-finish front grille, halogen fog lights, LED combination taillights, LED daytime running lights, the all-new Active Driving Display, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with manual lumbar adjustment, leatherette seats and door panel inserts, and variable heated front seats in addition to the features available on the i Touring with Technology Package. The five-door model starts at $25,095 MSRP.
A Sport mode button also is standard and offers a more direct response in terms of accelerator feel and a heightened sense of linearity. All Mazda3 vehicles equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission feature a manual shift option but the Sport mode feature (s models only) adjusts the shift mapping – and to a lesser extent the throttle response – to better match more engaging driving conditions, such as twisty roads. The transmission will hold gears longer and not upshift or downshift as much while manually shifting when driving through turns.
The top-of-the-food-chain s Grand Touring features all the equipment of the s Touring with Technology Package as well as auto on/off headlights, bi-xenon headlights with auto leveling, a pivoting Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), rain-sensing windshield wipers, an auto dimming rearview mirror, perforated leather-trimmed seats and a moonroof with a one-touch open function. The s Grand Touring sedan starts at $25,995 MSRP and the five-door at $26,495 MSRP.
A Touring Technology Package ($1,600 MSRP) for the sGrand Touring model adds the i-ELOOP regenerative engine braking system, active grille shutters, High Beam Control (HBC), a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).
SCBS is an added safety component designed to assist a driver in reducing the extent of front collisions when traveling at speeds between 2 and 19 miles per hour. When the imbedded laser sensor detects an obtrusive object ahead of the vehicle and the system calculates there may be a high risk for collision, the brake pedal travel is reduced in order to hasten braking. Should the driver fail to perform an avoidance maneuver, the SCBS system will activate an automatic braking function. While the system will not eliminate accidents, its intent is to minimize them and reduce the severity of an impact.
All 2014 Mazda3 vehicles are available with a choice of eight colors: Jet Black, Soul Red, Blue Reflex, Liquid Silver, Meteor Gray, Snowflake White Pearl and the two all-new Mazda shades of Deep Crystal Blue and Titanium Flash. A choice of Black or Sand cloth seats as well as Black or Almond leather seats is available based on trim level. Leatherette-trimmed seats are offered only in Black.
Standard safety features for the 2014 Mazda3 includes six airbags (front, side and full side-curtain), whiplash-reducing front headrests, headrests for all seating positions, power-assisted ventilated front and solid rear disc solid brakes, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, daytime running lights, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Launch Assist, a collapsible steering column (following air bag deployment), a trunk entrapment release system, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a keyless remote panic button on the key fob, three-point safety belts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters as well as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).
i Touring and above models feature a Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) as standard equipment. A rearview camera is an available option on i Touring models and is standard on i Grand Touring as well as s Touring and Grand Touring models. The Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) and rain sensing wipers are standard on the s Grand Touring. High Beam Control (HBC), a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) are available as part of the Grand Touring Technology Package for the s Grand Touring models.
All-new Mazda3 5-door Hatchback
Mazda Motor Corporation revealed the hatchback version of the all-new Mazda3 (known as Mazda Axela in Japan). The redesigned Mazda3 is the third in Mazda’s new generation of products that adopt both the KODO – Soul of Motion design theme and the full-suite of SKYACTIV Technologies. The sports compact that will redefine driving pleasure will be launched around the globe, with sales starting in North American markets from autumn 2013.
Thanks to the dynamic expressions of KODO design, the Mazda3 suggests exhilarating driving at first glance. In addition, SKYACTIV Technology delivers a “jinba-ittai” experience of oneness between car and driver which deepens with every mile driven. Introduced for the first time with the 3rd generation Mazda3 is a new car connectivity system that broadens the scope of that driving experience. The system features a new Human Machine Interface (HMI) that is designed with the highest priority placed on driving safety. A wide range of Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE advanced active safety technologies aid the driver in recognizing and avoiding hazards. Mazda has consistently aimed to offer customers driving pleasure and this compelling package ensures the all-new Mazda3 is no exception.
The global engine line-up includes a newly-developed SKYACTIV-G 1.5 liter gasoline engine in addition to 2.0 and 2.5 liter engines and a 2.2 liter clean diesel engine. The line-up will be optimized for each market to meet the diverse needs of a wide variety of customers around the world. A sedan model featuring a hybrid electric powertrain will be available in Japan.
ALL-NEW MAZDA3 TO TRANSFORM COMPANY CAR SECTOR
- Class-leading combination of performance and economy
- Outstanding CO2 emissions from 104g/km on the all-new Mazda3 deliver tax savings
- SKYACTIV technology gives Mazda three-model fleet appeal
The all-new Mazda3 is expected to transform the lower medium company car sector led by a class-leading combination of performance, excellent fuel economy and low emissions with the latter delivering tax savings to drivers and businesses.
The model, which will be available in hatchback and fastback (saloon) body styles, will be the third car in the Mazda range, following the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6, to feature the manufacturer’s breakthrough SKYACTIV technology.
A choice of three highly efficient SKYACTIV-G petrol engines and one SKYACTIV-D diesel engine available with outstanding CO2 emissions from 104g/km will be twinned with crisp, smooth six-speed automatic or manual transmissions offering fleet operators and company car drivers a wide model choice across SE, SE Nav, SE-L, SE-L Nav and Sport Nav trim levels.
Arrival of the 36-strong model range heralds the debut of two new SKYACTIV engines – the SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre 100ps delivering up to 55.4mpg on the combined cycle and emissions from 119gkm and the 2.0-litre 120ps also offering up to 55.4mpg and emissions from 119g/km. The range also sees the introduction of powerplants already established in the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6 in the form of the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre 165ps with MPG up to 48.7mpg and emissions of 135g/km and the SKYACTIV-D 2.2 150ps, which meets Euro 6 emission standards and returns up to 72.4mpg with emissions from 104g/km.
On the road (OTR) prices start at £16,695 for the all-new Mazda3 hatchback 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G 100ps SE hatchback and extend to £23,345 for the all-new Mazda3 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D 150ps Sport Nav auto hatchback. The range goes on sale in January 2014.
Meanwhile, OTR prices for the all-new Mazda3 fastback featuring the emission-busting 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D 150ps (104g/km) engine start at £19,245 for the SE derivative and extend to £22,145 for the Sport Nav variant. It means that company car driver benefit-in-kind tax bills for the car start at just £48 a month in 2014 for a basic rate taxpayer (£96 a month at the higher rate).
Mazda is gunning for the traditional C segment with the all-new model, but due to a combination of its dimensions – it is larger than the outgoing Mazda3 – coupled with styling, price and performance that deliver up to 20 percent lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the manufacturer believes it will secure a significant foothold in the premium C/D segment.
The all-new Mazda3 2.2-litre SKYACTIV diesel 150ps model, which is anticipated to be the best-seller in the corporate market, offers for example, significant CO2 and MPG advantages over rivals, while also delivering major benefit-in-kind tax savings to drivers and corporate tax and National Insurance savings to employers.
Mazda Head of Fleet Steve Tomlinson said: “A class-leading combination of performance, CO2 emissions and fuel economy, means that the all-new Mazda3 gives fleet managers and company car drivers a real alternative to the traditional in both the C and C/D segments.
“The introduction of SKYACTIV technology in both the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6 within the past 12 months has helped to increase Mazda’s penetration in the fleet sector and the arrival of the all-new Mazda3 with similar benefits will further enhance our fleet proposition.”
The £28,410 (OTR) BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics 4dr with CO2 emissions of 109g/km and fuel economy of 68.9mpg is generally regarded as setting the emissions and fuel economy benchmarks in the C/D sector.
Tomlinson continued: “The all-new Mazda3 fastback with CO2 emissions of 104g/km, fuel economy of 72.4mpg and priced from £19,245 establishes a new performance threshold. Additionally, with a benefit-in-kind tax rate of just 15 percent in 2014, the significantly lower list price means major savings for both businesses and company car drivers.”
Specification on the all-new Mazda3 will offer a remarkable combination of advanced information, entertainment and connectivity, with safety and convenience as the top priorities. Additionally, spaciousness over the outgoing model includes class-leading rear legroom combined with a larger boot – 364-litres with rear seats up (including under floor storage) – more than the current hatchback. Boot space in the fastback is 419-litres.
Tomlinson concluded: “The all-new SKYACTIV Mazda3 alongside the new Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5, both of which already benefit from SKYACTIV technology, gives Mazda a significant three-model presence in the fleet sector.
“Both new Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5 are delivering new corporate sales opportunities for Mazda as businesses look to reduce operating costs and tax bills. Additionally, the sporty design, quality interior and performance coupled with benefit-in-kind tax bill savings versus the opposition appeal strongly to company car drivers.
“The all-new Mazda3 has similar attributes and offers identical cash saving advantages, while also being a major step-forward for Mazda in terms of delivering opportunities in the most competitive sectors of the company car market.”
All-new Mazda3 –September 2013
| HatchbackSKYACTIV-G Petrol | ‘On the road’ retail | CO2(g/km) | RFLBand | BIKRate | Monthly BIK20% / 40% |
| 1.5-litre 100ps SE | £16,695 | 119 | C | 15% | £42 / £83 |
| 1.5-litre 100ps SE Nav | £17,295 | 119 | C | 15% | £43 / £86 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE | £16,995 | 119 | C | 15% | £42 / £85 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE Nav | £17,595 | 119 | C | 15% | £44 / £88 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE Auto | £18,195 | 129 | D | 17% | £51 / £103 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE Nav Auto | £18,795 | 129 | D | 17% | £53 / £106 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE-L | £18,495 | 119 | C | 15% | £46 / £92 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE-L Nav | £19,095 | 119 | C | 15% | £48 / £95 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE-L Auto | £19,695 | 129 | D | 17% | £56 / £111 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE-L Nav Auto | £20,295 | 129 | D | 17% | £57 / £115 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps Sport Nav | £19,895 | 119 | C | 15% | £50 / £99 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps Sport Nav Auto | £21,095 | 129 | D | 17% | £60 / £119 |
| 2.0-litre 165ps Sport Nav | £21,620 | 135 | E | 19% | £68 / £136 |
| HatchbackSKYACTIV-D Diesel | ‘On the road’ retail | CO2(g/km) | RFLBand | BIKRate | Monthly BIK20% / 40% |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE | £19,245 | 107 | B | 16% | £51 / £102 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE Nav | £19,845 | 107 | B | 16% | £53 / £106 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE-L | £20,745 | 107 | B | 16% | £55 / £110 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE-L Nav | £21,345 | 107 | B | 16% | £57 / £114 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE-L Auto | £21,945 | 127 | D | 20% | £73 / £146 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE-L Nav Auto | £22,545 | 127 | D | 20% | £75 / £150 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps Sport Nav | £22,145 | 107 | B | 16% | £59 / £118 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps Sport Nav Auto | £23,345 | 127 | D | 20% | £78 / £155 |
| FastbackSKYACTIV-G Petrol | ‘On the road’ retail | CO2(g/km) | RFLBand | BIKRate | Monthly BIK20% / 40% |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE | £16,995 | 119 | C | 15% | £42 / £85 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE Nav | £17,595 | 119 | C | 15% | £44 / £88 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE Auto | £18,195 | 128 | D | 17% | £51 / £103 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE Nav Auto | £18,795 | 128 | D | 17% | £53 / £106 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE-L | £18,495 | 119 | C | 15% | £46 / £92 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE-L Nav | £19,095 | 119 | C | 15% | £48 / £95 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE-L Auto | £19,695 | 128 | D | 17% | £56 / £111 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps SE-L Nav Auto | £20,295 | 128 | D | 17% | £57 / £115 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps Sport Nav | £19,895 | 119 | C | 15% | £50 / £99 |
| 2.0-litre 120ps Sport Nav Auto | £21,095 | 128 | D | 17% | £60 / £119 |
All-new Mazda3 – Pricing September 2013 / continued
| FastbackSKYACTIV-D Diesel | ‘On the road’ retail | CO2(g/km) | RFLBand | BIKRate | Monthly BIK20% / 40% |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE | £19,245 | 104 | B | 15% | £48 / £96 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE Nav | £19,845 | 104 | B | 15% | £49 / £99 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE-L | £20,745 | 104 | B | 15% | £52 / £103 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps SE-L Nav | £21,345 | 104 | B | 15% | £53 / £106 |
| 2.2-litre 150ps Sport Nav | £22,145 | 104 | B | 15% | £55 / £110 |
| Factory fitted options | Basic Price | VAT | Retail Price |
| Metallic / Mica / Pearlescent Paint | £441.67 | £88.33 | £530 |
| Soul Red Metallic | £550.00 | £110 | £660 |
| Black Leather Interior* | £833.33 | £166.67 | £1,000 |
| Light Stone Leather Interior** | £1,000.00 | £200.00 | £1,200 |
| Light Stone Leather Upgrade*** | £166.67 | £33.33 | £200 |
| Safety Pack**** | £583.33 | £116.67 | £700 |
*Standard on 165ps Sport Nav Petrol. Optional on 120ps Sport Nav Petrol and 150ps Sport Nav Diesel
**Optional on 120ps Sport Nav Petrol and 150ps Sport Nav Diesel
***Optional on 165ps Sport Nav Petrol
****Optional on Sport Nav
MZD CONNECT ARRIVES ON THE ALL-NEW MAZDA3
- New system conveniently and safely brings internet connectivity into the car
- Fits seamlessly into the Mazda3 interior’s new human-machine interface
Never resting when it comes to innovation, Mazda is now launching MZD Connect – its brand-new connectivity system – on the all-new Mazda3. When it goes on sale in the UK in January 2014, the company’s new-generation compact will be one of the first in its segment to offer a huge package of online services to go along with the completely redeveloped human-machine interface (HMI) in the cabin.
MZD Connect works together with the user’s smartphone, expanding Mazda’s existing range of navigation and SMS features (including readout and voice recognition) with a whole new scale of connected convenience. Mazda3 occupants can thus enjoy carefree real-time access to infotainment services from Aha™ via the 7-inch display on top of the centre stack. A cloud-based platform designed for in-car use, Aha™ offers more than 40,000 choices of content including internet radio, news, podcasts and audio books as well as Facebook and Twitter feeds and a variety of location-based services. All users need is the free Aha™ app for their smartphones to connect in the car via Bluetooth or USB.
MZD Connect also offers Mazda’s own vehicle apps, such as Eco-display and maintenance reminders. With its modular hardware structure and updatable software, the system is flexible as well as future-proof. It also supports playback from other connected mobile devices, and works in 25 languages for audio and 38 for text. The range of available applications and services will continually grow over time.
The system is remarkably easy and above all safe to use thanks to the new HMI developed by Mazda for the all-new Mazda3. The cabin setup, which includes the Active Driving Display, Mazda’s new head-up display, minimises distraction potential, helping drivers maintain a stable position and keep their eyes on the road. As a result, they are able to take full advantage of MZD Connect and other information-providing technology yet still operate the vehicle safely.
“We always strive at Mazda to continuously improve the overall driving experience, and MZD Connect marks a big step forward in this respect,” says, Jeff Guyton, President and CEO of Mazda Motor Europe. “By introducing this system on the all-new Mazda3, the latest version of our top seller, we’re going to deliver this experience to as many customers as possible and as quickly as possible.”
- [1] Starting price is manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRP does not include $795 destination charge (Alaska $840), title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.
- [2] SKYACTIV is a registered trademark of Mazda Motor Corporation (MC).
- [3] These figures are only estimates as provided by the manufacturer and not yet confirmed by the EPA. This particular model/trim has yet to be tested by a government agency.