Mazda3 2014 Review

Not so much:
>> Some wind noise
>> No rear-seat ventilation
>> Front number plate spoils look

If you’ve seen the Mazda CX-5 or the Mazda6, then the new Mazda3 may strike you as a little bit familiar. The styling of the third-generation ‘3’ takes on Mazda’s Soul of Motion (or KODO in Mazda parlance) design treatment reminiscent of its larger siblings; albeit in a package sized to suit the many and varied demands of small car buyers.

Familiar too is much of the mechanical fit-out beneath that attractive skin. Mazda utilises the same 114kW/200Nm 2.0-litre and 138kW/250Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G (for gasoline) engines found under the bonnet of the CX-5. In Mazda3, these are tuned to deliver 5.7L and 6.0L fuel consumption averages respectively, a 25 per cent improvement.

Transmissions are also the same as the brand’s strong-selling mid-size SUV, while the electrically-assisted steering, i-ELOOP regenerative braking components, aerodynamic grille shutters and idle stop-start system of Mazda’s eco-friendlier SKYACTIV technology set help eek out even better fuel economy. Emissions also fall by up to 20 per cent.

Yet to be previewed is the more frugal turbo-diesel variant. In another case of déjà vu, the 2.2-litre oiler that will power the Mazda3 shares its origins with that of the CX-5 SKYACTIV-D (for diesel). It is expected to arrive late in 2014 or early 2015. A petrol-electric hybrid variant is also said to be in the pipeline, and there’s even a smaller-capacity 1.5-litre petrol engine available in other markets.

There’s also head-up display (on high grade models) and an all-new infotainment system Mazda calls MZD Connect. Like many of this ilk, the 7.0-inch touchscreen is endowed with Bluetooth, USB, radio, and internet functionality, and, thanks to its modular design, can be updated when technology outgrows it. The system also uses a nifty console-mounted controller to bypass the touchscreen element, and keep your eyes on the road.

But just what does the fresh-faced Mazda3 feel like behind the wheel?

To find out, motoring.com.au joined Mazda Australia for a backstage preview of the petrol-powered hatch and sedan variants at the AARC Proving Grounds in Anglesea, Victoria.

At the controls, the Mazda3 is visually cleaner with concisely styled surfaces that present with an upmarket ambience. The ergonomics are first rate, with all primary controls relating well to the driver, and all ancillary items within a hand’s reach.

The cabin proves immediately quieter, too. The Mazda3 has been criticised in the past for its abundant road and driveline noise, though now only a slight wind rustle from the wing mirrors is evident.

The engine, especially the 2.5, feels (and sounds) more refined and responds to throttle input appropriately. There’s no ‘jumping’ from the line and even through the rev range both engines are more linear but at the same time quicker to respond to increases in throttle pressure.

It’s true of the automatic transmission as well. The old unit was often reluctant to downshift when prompted and would need manual intervention to deliver results when overtaking or negotiating winding or undulating roads. The new transmission is more intuitive, and reacts far faster to driver demands without sounding stressed or unpleasant.

The manual gearbox is also very much improved. There’s better modulation through the clutch pedal which remains well assisted, but not so light as to remove all-important feel. The gearshift throw is marginally shorter, but much cleaner in its action, and the ratios are improved, especially in the ‘gap’ between second and third gear.

But perhaps the biggest change of all is noted from the Mazda3’s chassis. Based on a version of the same (modular) platform that underpins the CX-5 and Mazda6 it’s perhaps no surprise that the architecture and its suspension perform to expectation. But perform it does.

The suspension is very well calibrated and delivers a ride/handling balance that is now equal to that of European benchmarks such as the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus. The stiffer body (torsional rigidity is up by as much as 31 per cent) is well controlled and tracks consistently through corners requiring little or no steering correction to maintain course. The suspension also does a far better job of masking all the little lumps and bumps that were felt almost continually in the predecessor.

The steering is pleasantly weighted and offers just the right amount of assistance for its application. There’s enough feel to let you know the front wheels’ intention, too.

In short, the dynamic improvements of the new Mazda3 see it lose the nervousness it once had in demanding conditions. It’s more fluid, and far more secure in holding the road beneath.

Mazda said the changes made to the Mazda3 are aimed at changing the small car game. That might be a bit of a stretch. Yes, it’s a definite improvement over the predecessor and yes, it’s an outstanding small car. However, the Mazda3 is now at a level that places it on par with its European rivals and for that reason, we wouldn’t say it’s a ‘game changer’.

What might change the game is pricing. If Mazda can price the 3 to compete with the likes of Focus (from $20,290) and Golf (from $21,490) it will certainly have a winner on its hands.

The all-new Mazda3 will go on sale locally from February 2014.