Revised Mazda3 launched in Japan

Mazda has revealed a facelifted version of its top-selling Mazda3 simultaneously in two events in both Canada and Japan.

The first mid-life makeover of the third-generation hatchback sees it gain a Mazda6-style front-end with styling tweaks to the front bumper, headlamps and grille.

There's also a subtle redesign of the rear bumper.

The modest exterior updates are accompanied by more convenience and safety equipment, plus re-tuned suspension and steering and the introduction of Mazda's new G-Vectoring (GVC) technology.

GVC will be available on Australian Mazda3s before the end of this year and is claimed to make the Japanese hatch easy to drive, with better handling and stability.

On sale in Australia this August, the new Mazda3 also comes with traffic sign recognition and an updated emergency autonomous braking that can now detect pedestrians and works at higher speeds, up to 80km/h.

LED headlamps will also become available on higher-spec models, improving nighttime illumination.

Inside, there’s a redesigned instrument panel that's claimed to be clearer than the one it replaces.

Mazda Australia is expected to announce further changes to the cars we get, as well as pricing for the full Mazda3 range in the next few days.