The latest generation of the Mazda3 has been launched in Hong Kong.

When the first-generation Mazda3 was released, it introduced a level of driving pleasure and sense of quality that exceeded its class. Five years later, total sales have surpassed 1.8 million units and the Mazda3 has won a total of 90 automobile awards around the globe.

The new Mazda3 builds on the virtues of the first generation and reflects increasing concern with environmental issues, plus growing diversity in the criteria people use to value cars.

Development was carried out by R&D staff in Japan, the United States and Europe, who worked together to reflect Mazda's long-term vision for technology development, "Sustainable Zoom-Zoom," which aims to achieve harmony between driving pleasure, and environmental and safety features.

They focused on achieving an exhilarating experience that drivers would sense directly, aiming for dynamic driving performance that responds to the driver's intention and excellent environmental and safety features that offer pride and confidence whenever the driver is behind the wheel.

To create exhilaration in every element of the vehicle, they worked to enhance each aspect of the driving quality.

Design

The design concept for the new Mazda3 was "remaining faithful to an inherited identity while evolving the design to make it more expressive." As a result, they achieved a powerful design that enhances recognition of Mazda's unique values.

Exterior

A distinctive new front fascia is formed by the five-point grille and openings at the front corners. These design cues combine with the sculpted shape of the hood and the bold, expressive lines that connect the hood to the front pillars. All the lines seem to flow into the center just below the five-point grille, which creates a stronger expression of power and dynamism. From the side, the front fender line smoothly morphs into the beltline, clearly identifying the vehicle as a Mazda and communicating dynamism. The line of the side sill curves up and seems to connect with the rear spoiler to emphasize the vehicle's compact size and express its agility.

The rear view boasts a sporty design with a wide stance. The strongest features are the protruding shoulders and emphasized center-focus design. This concept was carried over from the original Mazda3 and made bolder to represent expressiveness. The impressive C-pillar design was also inherited from the first-generation Mazda3 and made more prominent.

Interior

Inside the all-new Mazda3 is a sporty yet highly refined cabin. The dashboard sweeps out from the center toward both sides with dynamic flair as though it is flexing powerful muscles. The large center display and controls are laid out around the driver to deliver just the right feeling of snugness. A soft, wood grained surface with five minimized parting lines on the top of the dashboard enhances the interior quality.

Driving dynamics

The development theme for the all- new Mazda3's dynamic performance was "exhilarating driving." It refers to the satisfaction derived when a car acts in perfect concert with the driver's intentions.

Powertrain

The powertrains combine Mazda's typical Zoom-Zoom driving experience with excellent environmental performance to provide exhilarating driving. The new engine lineup includes the MZR-1.6-litre and 2.0-litre petrol. Both versions have outstanding clean emissions performance, complying with the Euro Stage 5 Regulations. The engine available in Hong Kong is the two-litre, promising 145 horsepower at 6,500 rpm.

Steering

To deliver just the right balance between fuel economy, light steering- wheel operation and a feeling of stability, all configurations of the all-new Madza3 are equipped with the Electro- Hydraulic Power Assist Steering system.

The suspension has been enhanced to ensure even nimbler responses to steering wheel operation, and also to improve roll control and maintain a flatter ride by strengthening the suspension damping.

Displays

Based on the concept of the zone layout, Mazda developed the Multi Information Display. It clearly shows information on all the equipment needed while driving, such as the trip computer, audio system and compact GPS system (optional).

The new power seats have a new three position memory function. Upon approaching the car, the driver's seat automatically adjusts to the settings chosen by up to three different drivers.