Mazda 3 Sedan, 2010

 

 

 

 

Mazda 3 Sedan, 2010

The new Mazda 3 Sedan is perfectly positioned for the rapidly changing automotive market. It offers a mix of quality, styling, power, dynamics and fit and finish that meets the demands of today's customers. In typical Mazda fashion, this new Mazda 3 Sedan will offer standard and optional equipment not found on other cars in its class - exactly what buyers want when seeking compact cars providing outstanding value.

This model arrives with an impressive pedigree, for the first-generation Mazda 3 earned 90 major awards from expert critics and achieved 1.8 million sales around the world during the last five years. The Mazda 3 accounts for one third of Mazda's sales and even at the end of its build life, the first-generation version continued to earn accolades - a leading consumer magazine recently naming it as one of the most reliable compact sedans available.

Mazda 3 Programme Manager Yoshiyuki Maeda established ambitious goals for the latest embodiment of the company's most popular car line, "We were determined to advance the Zoom-Zoom driving experience to new heights because that unique feeling lies at the very heart of Mazda. On the heels of the original Mazda 3's success, we aimed to again exceed the expectations of customers all over the world by a wide margin. This meant providing drivers with a sense of exhilaration - whether they were in motion, seated in the Mazda 3, or enjoying its appearance from outside."

Describing what it takes to develop a true 'world car', Maeda added: "The development process began with careful study and identification of what features and performance qualities would be needed. That initial phase ended with my conclusion that every driving characteristic was eligible for improvement to reach our Zoom-Zoom goals. Mazda engineering and R&D departments in Japan, Europe, and the US all contributed to the Mazda 3's renewal effort and the development of the company's new world car."

EXTERIOR DESIGN
Chief designer Kunihiko Kurisu's mission was to remain faithful to the Mazda 3's existing visual identity while evolving its appearance with richer, bolder design strokes. Infusing each subsequent new model with more emotional aesthetics is a longstanding Mazda tradition. The key Mazda 3 exterior design highlights are:
    * A move toward a more unified Mazda global 'family face'
    * A reinforced frontal identity which integrates the lower air intake with a more emphatic and instantly recognizable five-point grille
    * Major design elements focus on, or flow toward, the vehicle's central axis, to stress power and dynamism. At the front, fascia lines converge on the centrepoint at the bottom of the grille. At the rear, the boot lid's surface has a distinctive centre crease
    * A compact cabin, high deck surfaces, and flowing C-pillar features, which were inspired by the classic coupe profile, as seen on the 2009 Mazda 6
    * Bonnet and side surfaces which are shaped to reflect light and physical surroundings
    * A subtle wedge-shape and curving side character lines which are shared with other Mazda models, giving the Mazda 3 Sedan a strong sense of impending motion - like a predator poised to strike
    * A new Adaptive Front Lighting System with self-levelling bi-xenon headlamps - added as standard on Grand Touring models. The Mazda 3 Sedan is the first compact offered for sale in the US with such an advanced lighting system
    * Exterior design elements which contribute to the car's function by minimizing aerodynamic drag and lift while providing the powertrain, chassis, and interior with adequate air flow for cooling and climate control

To supplement the four-door sedan introduced at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, a five-door hatchback Mazda 3 will arrive later.

INTERIOR DESIGN
Inside, the new Mazda 3 Sedan offers a sporty yet highly refined cabin - the dash sweeping dramatically from its centre to the sides of the cabin. The large gauge instrument cluster and centre stack are positioned to tightly link the driver's limbs and senses to the car's instruments and controls.

Studies into the range of motion helped position all controls at an ideal reach, while the slant of the instrument panel optimises operating efficiency and provides an attractive focal point. Key knobs and switches are positioned at the same level as the steering wheel and the gear level as part of an interior design which is based on Mazda's Human Machine Interface concept.

All the information a driver needs is readily available in one concentrated area - thereby minimising distractions from the road ahead. A Multi-Information Display is positioned high on the centre portion of the instrument panel to further reduce distraction. Navigation, audio, and trip computer information is provided in this convenient and easy-to-view location.

The front seat cushions have been extended by nearly an inch (compared to the outgoing car), in order to provide improved thigh support. Backrests are 1.4-inches taller and re-contoured for improved driving posture. For the higher grade models, the upper side bolsters have been canted inward for heightened torso support during aggressive cornering. A three-position memory function has been added to cars equipped with power seats - another first for the segment, and not offered at any price on any competitor's compact car. Upon approach to the car, the driver's seat automatically adjusts to the settings chosen by up to three different drivers by recognising the code of the key fob.

To provide a top-quality interior appearance, the number of parting lines is minimized and soft-touch surfaces show an elegant grained texture. An interactive lighting system enhances the cabin's ambience and sense of tranquillity. Upon entry, illumination rises in intensity in a programmed manner. Occupants are welcomed by foot-well and door-handle lamps. Next, instrument cluster, centre stack, audio and climate controls brighten. When a driver or front seat occupant touches an audio or AC switch, a change in illumination acknowledges that the command has been received.

Dual-zone automatic air conditioning is an option. Other special features that distinguish this car include: a BOSE 10-speaker premium surround sound system, connectivity for cell phones and portable media players, a dock for iPods, and Sirius satellite radio. An advanced keyless entry system includes push-button engine starting. Other options include rain-sensing wipers, heated door mirrors, leather upholstery, and heated seats.

Overall, the details included in the new Mazda 3 Sedan all contribute to the sense of quality in the car. This is a vehicle that offers equipment, fit and finish not found in other vehicles in its class, and in the current economic climate helps to position Mazda 3 Sedan perfectly for buyers seeking a way to spend less but get more.

POWER TO GO
The MZR 2.0-litre four-in-line engine delivers 148 horsepower at 6500 rpm (PZEV = 144 @ 6500 rpm) and 135 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm (PZEV = 132 @ 4500 rpm). Aluminium block and head construction saves weight while, in the interests of power and efficiency, four valves per cylinder are operated by dual overhead camshafts.

The new MZR 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine is borrowed from the larger all-new 2009 Mazda 6. It shares the same construction features of the 2.0-litre engine while upping output to 167 horsepower at 6000 rpm (PZEV = 165 @ 6000 rpm) and 168 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm (PZEV = 167 @ 4000 rpm). Both engines employ advanced electronic throttle actuation. Mazda's exclusive torque base control technology provides a highly linear acceleration response to every change of throttle pedal pressure.

A slick-shifting five-speed or six-speed manual transmission, as well as a five-speed electronically controlled Sport-AT automatic transmission, are available depending on the model. Sport-AT offers enthusiastic drivers the control of manual gear engagement with the convenience and comfort of a conventional automatic.

Fuel economy is exemplary and was a key to the vehicle's development. The Mazda 3 Sedan with 2.0-litre engine achieves 25 mpg in city driving with the manual transmission and 24 mpg with the automatic. The highway mileage with the 2.0-litre engine is 33 mpg with either transmission. The Mazda 3 Sedan with 2.5-litre engine also tops 20 mpg in all conditions. Equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, its city rating is 21 mpg, rising to 22 mpg with the five-speed automatic. The highway rating is 29 mpg with either transmission. Even though the new Mazda 3 Sedan is larger in every dimension - meeting the requests and needs of customers - Mazda engineers achieved fuel economy on a par with the outgoing car.

To refine the acoustic qualities of the Mazda 3 Sedan powertrains, extra attention was paid to tuning each engine's intake and exhaust system. Resonance chambers were implemented to quieten certain sound frequencies while reinforcing others, achieving a well mannered yet sporty sound during acceleration. The Mazda 3 Sedan 2.5-litre engine is equipped with dual tailpipes and specially tuned mufflers to reduce mid-range boom and objectionable high-frequency noise at high rpm.

Mazda 3 models certified to U.S. Federal exhaust emission standards are equipped with catalytic converters employing advanced single nanotechnology. It is used to embed individual particles of precious metals, which are less than five nanometers in diameter, into the catalyst base material. This new development enables Mazda to reduce the amount of expensive precious metals such as platinum and palladium by 70 to 90 per cent without impairing catalyst performance. The catalyst is an important part of Mazda's efforts to reduce reliance on limited resources.

SOUND FOUNDATION
The 2009 Mazda 6 offers one of the stiffest unibody structures on any Mazda vehicle and the lessons learned in developing that larger car provided major strides in structural stiffness in the new Mazda 3 Sedan. A stiff unibody provides a smoother ride, more confident handling, and improved agility with virtually no increase in bodyshell weight.

Re-engineered unibody joints and increased metal gauges in key areas help diminish the transmission of road and powertrain noise into the passenger cabin. Suspension anchor points are more substantial to provide the solid foundation needed to absorb steering and suspension forces. In addition to welded attachments, suspension towers are bonded to the surrounding unibody areas with structural adhesives. A combination of welding and adhesives - also borrowed from the 2009 Mazda 6 - is also used to increase the rigidity and collision deformation resistance at door opening locations. The stiffer door design also improves the effectiveness of weather seals that block moisture and noise from the interior.

A Mazda engineering approach called Aero Flow Management was used to optimize the flow of air around and through Mazda 3 Sedan body openings. Even though the front grille appears larger than before, it is actually 20 per cent smaller to ingest only the amount of air needed for combustion and cooling. An air guide attached to the front bumper directs the flow through the radiator where it is most useful. At high speeds, a bypass flap opens to minimize cooling fan drag.

Air flow along the sides of the body was improved during wind tunnel testing by placing deflectors near the tyres and by carefully tuning the upper-forward corners of the cabin. Subtle refinements in the shape of the A-pillars, door mirrors, windshield wipers, and tail lamps also contributed to the six per cent reduction in wind noise levels. The 0.29 drag coefficient (Cd) achieved by Mazda engineers is one of the lowest available in the compact class and highly beneficial to highway fuel economy.

CLASS-LEADING CHASSIS DESIGN
There was no need to reinvent the Mazda 3's chassis design because the first generation achieved distinction as the best available in the compact class in terms of driving enjoyment, handling, and all-round poise. Subtle tuning changes were all that were required for the new Mazda 3 Sedan.

A rubber-isolated subframe in front supports the entire powertrain, the rack-and-pinion steering system, and the lower attachments of the coil spring MacPherson strut suspension. The independent multi-link rear suspension also uses coil springs with one trailing arm, two lateral links, and one toe-control link per side. Four-wheel power disc brakes with ventilated discs in front and solid discs in back are standard equipment. Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control are available on all Mazda 3s, as standard on some trim levels.

To improve steering feel, the electro-hydraulic-assist rack-and-pinion steering gear is now secured at three attachment locations instead of two. The additional mounting point allowed a reduction in the stiffness of the bushings that support the steering gear to diminish the vibration transmitted over rough surfaces.

Resistance to body roll has been increased by recalibrating the monotube rear dampers for tighter control and by switching to a new, more substantial mounting arrangement for the front and rear anti-roll bars. At the front of the new Mazda 3, lower control arms, the subframe, and mount bushings are all stiffer to improve both steering response and cornering grip at the adhesion limit. A redesigned rear suspension crossmember is both lighter and significantly stiffer, also delivering improved handling.

The most notable change to the braking system is a new vacuum booster that provides a more reassuring response to light pedal efforts without disturbing the highly direct and linear feel inherited from the first-generation Mazda 3. Adjustments to the electronic brake force distribution programming enhance vehicle stability during mixed braking and cornering manoeuvres. The structural changes to the unibody help improve not only the rigidity of the brakes but also their linearity during high-g stops.

The Mazda 3 Sedan with 2.0-litre engine is equipped with 10.9-inch diameter front discs and 10.4-inch diameter rear discs while the more powerful 2.5-litre Mazda 3 Sedan is fitted with 11.8-inch front and 11.0-inch rear discs.

ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY SYSTEMS
Providing the Mazda 3 Sedan driver with a better ability to avoid a collision by steering or braking safely out of harm's way is a fundamental aspect of Mazda's product development. Mazda's engineers strongly believe that the best way to help protect occupants in a crash is to engineer control systems in such a way that the crash is avoided in the first place. Carefully tuned electro-hydraulic power steering, a highly agile suspension system, and powerful disc brakes are standard Mazda 3 features. ABS, Dynamic Stability Control, and traction control are offered as standard or optional equipment - depending on grade.

A new Adaptive Front Lighting System with self-levelling bi-xenon headlamps has been added as standard on Grand Touring models. The Mazda 3 Sedan is the first compact offered for sale in the US with such an advanced lighting system.

But in rare instances, a collision cannot be avoided. To cover these circumstances, all Mazda 3 models are constructed with a Triple-H unibody design employing efficient H-shaped steel reinforcements in the floor, side structures, and roof. This approach to energy absorption provides crush zones that better protect occupants from the impact forces sustained during rollover, frontal, side, front-offset, angled, and rear collisions. Six airbags and active head restraints are standard equipment.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
Seemingly small changes can often deliver great gains. For example, the four-speed automatic transmission was switched to a five-speed unit in 2.0-litre Mazda 3 models, and subtle aerodynamic improvements were also made. These changes yielded a three-mpg improvement (10 per cent) in highway fuel economy.

To reduce consumption of hazardous materials, the new Mazda 3 Sedan uses no lead in its fuel tank, wiring harness, or undercoating. Hexavalent chromium and cadmium have also been eliminated from the list of materials. The toluene emissions from a new joint sealing compound are 90 per cent lower than before. Mazda's manufacturing plants adhere to the strictest environmental standards and contribute significantly to the many less obvious elements of Mazda's Sustainable Zoom-Zoom initiatives.

Efforts are under way to increase the scope of recyclable materials from 80 to 90per cent when a Mazda 3 Sedan reaches the end of its useful life. Moulded plastic parts are already labelled with ISO identification marks to facilitate sorting and recycling. Fascias, interior trim, and the instrument panel are made of polypropylene for easy reuse in those markets that offer it. Recycled material has been used to manufacture new plastic mouldings for the past four years at Mazda.

Mazda 3 MPS, 2010

 

 

Mazda 3 MPS, 2010

The next-generation Mazda 3 MPS is one of the world's most powerful front-wheel drive compact cars. It takes the all-new Mazda 3 hatchback as its base and raises it to new levels of driving excitement with an updated MZR 2.3-litre DISI turbo petrol engine, increased body shell rigidity and an evolved suspension. To this it adds exclusive design cues and materials to deliver a next-generation compact flagship that is even more fun to own and drive than the current model.

On top of its high performance level - one of the best in the category - the all-new Mazda 3 MPS was developed according to Mazda's long-term vision for technology development. Advanced Mazda engine and catalytic converter technologies mean the new model has an optimized power delivery, uses less fuel, and has cleaner emissions than the previous Mazda 3 MPS model.

Design - A More Expressive and Dynamic Design
The design theme for the all-new Mazda 3 called on the development team to evolve the model's visual identity to create a sportier, more aggressive appearance. The end result is a more emotionally appealing design that takes the sporty, agile compact nature of the all-new Mazda 3 hatchback to a new level of sporty refinement.

Exterior Design
A new air intake for the intercooler is introduced to the centre of the all-new Mazda 3 MPS bonnet, hinting at the power underneath. The front fender and front bumper designs are exclusive to the MPS, while subtle intonation added to the surface and character lines give the exterior an expressive and dynamic flair. The front grille and lower bumper sections share the same black metallic paint finish. These are framed by cylindrical bi-xenon headlamps and round fog lamps, to underscore the car's premium character.

Silhouette and rear end
At the sides, subtle wedge-shaped and curving side character lines, along with a side under spoiler, accentuate the car's sporty, low centre of gravity. The view from the rear features a large floating rear spoiler (depending on market) that balances out the tight look begun by the new front end and adds to the compact's aggressive image. LED tail lamps have an inner lens that adds a sense of greater transparency when the lamps are not lit.

One the segment's best for aerodynamic performance
Beginning with the all-new Mazda 3 5-door hatchback, which has one of the segment's lowest coefficients of drag, MPS developers added a number of exterior features optimised for aerodynamic efficiency. These include the large front and rear bumpers, a large floating rear roof spoiler and front under spoiler. The result is aerodynamic performance that provides stability and easy control when travelling straight, changing lanes, or overtaking other vehicles at high speeds. The shape of the A-pillars and door mirrors were also designed keeping aerodynamic efficiency in mind, while increased rigidity around the door sashes, delivers improved sealing of the doors to reduce wind noise.

The Wheels and tyres
Mazda introduces all-new 18-inch (18 x 7.5J) aluminium alloy wheels designed exclusively for the Mazda 3 MPS using the same design theme as the Mazda RX-8 wheels. These have a strong, three-dimensional form that helps the car look nimble and aggressive when seen from the side.

The Interior design
Front seat area
The dashboard of the new Mazda 3 MPS is designed to give a roomy feel at the front. This is combined with a large centre console and a driver-orientated, wrap-around cockpit with just the right feeling of snugness. Exacting calculation was applied to designing the slant of the centre console and in positioning the gearshift lever closer to the driver.

New turbo boost gauge
The hoodless independent blackout speedometer and tachometer express sportiness through their design. The tachometer features a red MPS logo and a needle that travels 260 degrees as opposed to the 190-degree rotation on other Mazda 3 models. The instrument cluster for the all-new MPS also includes an LED turbo boost gauge positioned between the meters, which heightens the car's high-performance feel.

Semi-bucket front seats
The all-new MPS provides semi-bucket front seats for a great fit and exceptional torso and thigh support, a real must in a car this sporty. The front edge of the seat cushions is enlarged to improve the fit under the thighs, and the seatback length is extended to provide greater support. The MPS upholstery features an exclusive black base colour with a red graphic design and red stitching.

Materials and colour
Developers were careful in selecting materials and surface finishes for the interior that will excite the driver and passengers every time they take a seat in the car. Black is the keynote colour employed throughout the interior, while the seats and trim fabric have an organic red graphic design. This MPS-exclusive design is distributed throughout, with red stitching enhancing the sporty interior character on the steering wheel, seats, door trim, shift lever boot, and centre armrest.

Powertrain - Exhilarating Driving and Euro Stage V Compliance
The power and easy-to-control torque characteristics of the new Mazda 3 MPS turbo petrol engine are combined with an optimised gear ratio that ensures smooth shift operation for sporty driving. This is matched to a stiffer body, a suspension system with greater damping strength, Mazda's electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS), as well as specially tuned brakes. Together, they deliver a high-performance package with precise, controllable handling, and powerful braking that is fun to drive on a daily basis.

The Engine - high-performance DISI technology
The all-new Mazda 3 MPS is powered by Mazda's MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo, a high-power inline 4-cylinder petrol engine. This acclaimed engine has been further refined and now delivers a maximum output of 191 kW/260 PS at 5,500 rpm and the same generous maximum torque of 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm than the current model. This represents one the world's highest level of performance in a front-engine front-wheel drive sports compact.

High-performance compact
Pairing direct-injection with a turbocharger allows the engine to achieve performance that is on par with a larger displacement engine. Realising the right balance between lightweight and high rigidity through the effective use of high-tensile steel sheeting - including 1,480 MPa ultra-high tensile steel - means the new MPS body shell easily supports the top speed of 250 km/h and acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds.

Reduced fuel consumption and Euro Stage V
Yet, the new Mazda 3 MPS also delivers surprisingly good environmental performance and fuel efficiency for a car with this kind of power. Optimised aerodynamics helps reduce fuel consumption from 9.7L/100 km on the previous model to 9.2L/100 km on the all-new Mazda 3 MPS. Also newly introduced is the world's first single-nanotechnology, fast-reacting catalytic converter under the floor, which delivers cleaner emissions and Euro Stage V compliance.

High torque from direct-injection
The latent heat of vaporization generated by the MZR 2.3L Turbo when atomized fuel is injected directly into a cylinder at pressures of up to 11.5 MPa reduces the temperature in the combustion chamber (in-cylinder cooling effect) and improves air-fuel mixture charging efficiency. When compared to turbo engines injecting fuel via regular intake ports, this approach increases torque of the new Mazda 3 MPS by up to about 10 percent at around 3,000 rpm. This realizes a smooth flat torque profile with plenty of power that is easy to control using a single-scroll turbo charger. The intercooler is the same size as on the previous model, but the new air intake mounted on the hood delivers a supply of cool air that better ensures stable cooling performance.

The Advanced torque management
The stiffness of the left and right drive shafts is optimized to minimize torque steer. Engine optimizations help to make this powerful, high-torque front-wheel drive vehicle easier to handle when enjoying a sporty drive. These measures include intake volume and boost pressure control that suppresses sudden torque peaks for smoother, more linear torque characteristics and steering angle sensors (all gears).

6-speed manual transmission
The transmission of the new Mazda 3 MPS uses a compact, three-shaft design that keeps the overall length the same as a 5-speed manual transmission. It uses a wide gear ratio setting that can fully exploit the wide torque band of the DISI Turbo engine, with a sixth gear that contributes to a quieter ride and improved fuel economy when driving at high speed. Each gear is set to a higher speed total gear ratio than on the previous model. Of particular note is the natural feel of shifting between first and second gear as the car picks up speed, as well as the smooth feel of successive shifts while accelerating.

Triple-cone synchronizers for first, second and third gears and a double-cone synchronizer for fourth gear optimize the amount of strength required to make shifts and establish the right balance between a short, responsive stroke and pleasing feel to gearshift operation. In addition, the transmission uses low-viscosity fluid, which greatly reduces the effort required for shifting when the engine is cold.

Chassis - Safe and Predictable
High body rigidity and specially tuned suspension
Based on the highly rigid body of the Mazda 3 5-door hatchback, the all-new MPS version adds reinforcements inside the front cowl member gussets to strengthen the joints between the rear suspension towers and rear floorboard, and employs a large tunnel member. These and other local reinforcements effectively increase body rigidity and greatly improve the new model's dynamic robustness.

Suspension system
The coil spring rates for both the MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension are modified exclusively for the MPS. Special tuning to support the high power of the MPS and provide satisfying driving performance also includes the introduction of larger diameter stabilizers than on the new Mazda 3 base model, and an increased span for the stabilizer mounts to achieve greater roll linearity. Special dampers for the MPS increase damping strength and combine with the coil springs and stabilizers to achieve higher roll stiffness than on the base model.

Newly-developed tyres
The Dunlop 225/40R18 tyres for the MPS are wider than on the previous model. By improving the grip of the tyres, the rigidity of their sidewalls and damping strength - along with the systems that bear the input from the tires, including body rigidity, suspension rigidity, and steering support rigidity - the new Mazda 3 MPS delivers response with a more direct feel, and a stronger sense of oneness between the driver and car. The result is a sporty drive that is more precise than on the previous model, even at high speeds. It delivers better response, greater stability and a flatter ride with fewer undulations, even when entering sharp curves or traversing wavy road surfaces. To ensure this, extensive high-speed test drives were conducted at Germany's Nürburgring.

Steering updates and EHPAS
The new Mazda 3 MPS now employs three highly rigid steering gear mount bushings instead of the two used on the previous model. The system also features electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS), which adjusts control in accordance with vehicle speed and steering angle to realize precise, solid response for an outstanding feel to steering wheel operation. Control is set for more accurate response to vehicle speed, providing a lighter feeling at slower speeds and a firmer, confidence-inspiring feeling at higher speeds. Steering is direct and sharp at just 2.7 turns from lock to lock.

Robust brakes and new electronic brake assist
Large diameter 320 mm ventilated disc brakes in the front and 280 mm solid discs in the rear combine with an 8+9 inch tandem brake booster and 1-inch large diameter master cylinder to realize powerful and stable braking. Electronic brake assist replaces the previous mechanical system, and four-wheel ABS and DSC are also standard equipment.

Mazda 3, 2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mazda 3, 2010

The Exterior design - expressive and emotional styling
A distinctive new front fascia is formed by the 5-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 5-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. In order to make the surface more expressive, Mazda designers slightly elaborated the depth of the hood edge, front fenders and the three-dimensional shape of the protruding body sides, carefully crafting curves that subtly reflect changes in natural light.

The rear view boasts a sporty design with wide stance. The strongest features are the protruding shoulders and emphasized center-focus design. This concept was carried over from the first generation Mazda 3 and made bolder to represent expressiveness. All the lines of the rear view are designed to concentrate on the brand symbol in the center. The impressive C-pillar design was also inherited from the first-generation Mazda 3 and made more prominent. This was made possible by Mazda's expertise in stamping technology.

The Interior design : sophisticated, sporty, and high quality
The inside of Mazda 3 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. The angle of the center panel was adjusted after careful analysis of the driver's hand movement, producing a more stylish and dynamic design. A soft, wood grained surface with minimized parting lines on the top of the dashboard enhances the interior quality. The new interactive lighting control enhances the driver's connection with the vehicle.

The Powertrains for all driving experiences
The powertrains combine Mazda's typical Zoom-Zoom driving experience with excellent environmental performance to provide exhilarating driving. They transmit just the right amount of G force that perfectly matches the vehicle's actual acceleration. This provides the driver with a more refined experience of oneness with the car. The new engine line up has been tailored for European customers and now includes the newly developed MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, carried over from the all-new Mazda 6, in addition to the MZR-1.6-litre and 2.0-litre gasoline engines and the MZ-CD 1.6-litre turbo diesel. It is a high-performance clean diesel engine with top class output, fuel economy and quietness. The MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine will be offered in two variants: a high power version with a maximum torque of 400 Nm/1,800-3,000 rpm and a maximum output of 136 kW (185 PS)/3500 rpm, and a standard power version with a maximum torque of 360 Nm/1,800-2,600 rpm and a maximum output of 110 kW (150 PS)/3500 rpm. Both versions have outstanding clean emissions performance, comply with the Euro Stage 5 regulations and feature a Mazda developed unique Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) technology for more efficient regeneration. Fuel economy is also greatly improved by 7 to 10 percent compared to the MZR-CD 2.0-litre engine equipped in the existing model, attaining 5.4 l/100 km for the standard power version and 5.6 l/100 km for the high power version.

The MZR 2.0-litre petrol engine underfloor catalyst is the world's first vehicle catalyst to be constructed with single nanotechnology, which controls even finer materials structures than nanotechnology. It is used to embed individual particles of precious metals, which are less than 5 nanometers in diameter, into the catalyst base material. This new development enables Mazda to reduce the amount of expensive precious metals such as platinum and palladium by 70 to 90 percent without impairing catalyst performance. The catalyst is an important part of Mazda's efforts to reduce reliance on limited resources.

Power steering, suspension and brake systems
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 (EHPAS) that has earned high acclaim on the first generation Mazda 3. The suspension is based on the first generation Mazda 3 system, and has been enhanced to ensure even nimbler response to steering wheel operation, and also to improve roll control and maintain a flatter ride by strengthening the suspension damping. In the brake system, the vacuum booster has been tuned and the feeling of initial brake application has been optimized. The overall result is outstanding response and reassuring linearity under all braking conditions.

The Highly rigid body
The basic development concept for the body shell of the all-new Mazda 3 was to improve the overall balance of the body's rigidity and ensure it firmly absorbs the reaction force of the dampers. To this end, particular attention went to reinforcing the area around the front and rear suspension mounts and the joint sections in each corner, which are subject to greater stress. Structural adhesive was used to strengthen the joints for the front and rear suspension towers, and spot welding was added to reinforce the joints of the door openings. The result is a substantial improvement in rigidity and body hysteresis (the degree of car body deformation due to repeated applications of torsional load).

Class-leading aerodynamics
The drag coefficient for the European specification 5-door hatchback and 4-door sedan are respectively 0.30 and 0.28, amongst of the bests in the segment. These measures helped the engineers attain top-class levels for wind noise reduction, high speed stability and fuel economy.

Cabin environment - sense of oneness between car and driver
Aboard the all-new Mazda 3 is a new Human Machine Interface that contributes to the sense of oneness between the car and driver. The cabin interior is designed to allow the driver to concentrate on driving and also appreciate the level of quality in both design and the materials used.

A sporty cockpit that improves functional beauty
The new "zone layout" approach focuses on improving visibility and more intuitive controls which provide "a sense of the car and driver as one" and "a reassuring sense of confidence that frees the driver to concentrate on driving." First, the Mazda 3 development team integrated the information display and positioned it towards the front in the optimal "zone." This placed the information necessary while driving where it can be seen with the least amount of eye movement. Next, the engineers placed all the controls and switches within a single "zone" closer to the driver's hands. Designing the cockpit with controls and information display in separate zones frees the driver to concentrate on driving.

The Multi information display (MID)
Based on the concept of the zone layout, Mazda developed the Multi Information Display (MID). It clearly shows information on all the equipment needed while driving, such as the trip computer, audio system and compact GPS system (optional), which can be operated easily by switches mounted on the steering wheel.

Seats that fit better, provide greater support and are more functional
The raised sides on the front of the seat cushions were made 20mm larger than on the first generation Mazda 3 to increase the leg support for a better fit. The seat backs were also extended by 35mm, which better supports the occupant's posture. Seat position adjustment controls were also evolved. The new power seat has a 3-position memory function. Upon approach to the car, the left-front seat automatically adjusts to the settings chosen by up to 3 different drivers by recognizing the code of the key fob. High-grade models feature standard sports seats.

Substantially reduced road and wind noise
Many improvements were made to structural rigidity and powertrain NVH performance to provide a quieter, more pleasant ride, including the reduction of high frequency booming noise sometimes heard when decelerating while further evolving a sporty engine note. Increasing the rigidity of components and joints also helped to deliver a quieter ride that rates among the class leaders. The sound pressure level of road noise was curtailed by 6 to 11 percent over the previous model, and wind noise was reduced by approximately 6 percent, to 59.0 dB at 100 km/h with a 5 m/s crosswind, placing the all-new Mazda 3 among the quietest in the class.

The Safety
Mazda focused on enhancing active safety equipment that supports the recognition and avoidance of hazards. Specifically, the cutting edge active safety technologies featured on the all-new Mazda 3 include ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Emergency Stop Signaling system(ESS) as standard equipments, and bi-xenon headlights with a pivoting adaptive front lighting system (option). New features include the Rear Vehicle Monitoring system (RVM), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Heated Wind Shield (option). The new model's passive safety systems are comprehensive and include Mazda proprietary highly-rigid and safe vehicle body technology, the Mazda Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System, as well as front seat active headrests and a complement of six airbags, placing the all-new Mazda 3 at the level of the top marks in collision safety testing around the world.