Mazda3 gets a 2008 upgrade
An upgrade to Mazda's popular small car accentuates the car's sporting orientationMazda has upgraded its popular small car range with additional features. To heighten the perception that the Mazda3 is a sporty drive, the importer has renamed the base model Mazda3 Neo by adding a Sport label to the model name. Mazda has also upgraded the other models in the range and ditched the mid-range Mazda3 Maxx.
The SP23, Diesel and MPS model names continue without change.
Whilst it looks like change for the sake of change from the 'new and improved' marketing school of thought, the Mazda3 range has been streamlined by integrating previously distinct variants within the range. The entry-level Mazda3 Neo is now fitted with 15-inch alloys in lieu of the previous steel wheels. Electric windows, electric mirrors and an MP3 auxiliary jack for the audio system are now fitted as standard, spelling an end to the power pack option.
In addition, the Mazda3 Neo is upgraded with new seat and door fabric in black. Mazda has introduced these changes without raising the price, which remains $20,990 for the Mazda3 Neo Sport. The Safety Pack option continues to be offered, for a premium of $1700 and automatic transmission is a $2000 option.
Other models now feature chrome external door handles. Both the Mazda3 Maxx Sport and Diesel models gain 16-inch alloy wheels in a new design, revised cloth interior trim and a centre console finished in Piano Black gloss.
The SP23 is now fitted with standard DSC (stability control) and traction control. Seat and door trim from the Mazda3 MPS has been adopted in the SP23 also. With these changes, Mazda has dropped the previous SP23 Luxury Pack option.
The MPS gains a new cloth trim featuring red highlights.
Taking the total colour selection to 12, four new colours are introduced to the Mazda3 Sport range: Copper Red, Golden Sand, Metropolitan Grey and Stormy Blue.
Mazda estimates the added value on some models to be as high as $1600.
Prices for the revised model range are:
Sedan and Hatch
Mazda3 Neo Sport $20,990
With Safety Pack $22,690
Auto transmission $2000
Mazda3 Maxx Sport $25,500
With DSC $26,500
Auto transmission $2000
Mazda3 Diesel $29,500
Mazda3 SP23 $29,600
With Luxury Pack $31,600
Auto transmission $2260
Mazda3 MPS $38,750
With Sports Pack $42,250
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
