FIRSTDRIVEMAZDA 3: It won't turn many heads, writes Michael McAleer, Motoring Editor, but it drives nicely
IN THESE chastened times, it seems sensible to put your best foot forward. That’s what Mazda is doing with its new Mazda3, the latest incarnation of the model that inherited the mantle of the Mazda 323 in 2003. Its importance is evident in the figures: it represents nearly 30 per cent of all sales for the brand globally.
This remodelled iteration, with revamped engines, reaches Irish forecourts in May. After hours of briefings and a limited time behind the wheel, we can assert that, while the brand may remain a limited player in the Irish market, this is a worthy rival to favourites like VW’s Golf and Ford’s Focus. It is certainly the equal of Toyota’s Auris and even the popular Corolla. Our only qualm is that it could have been more daring in design.
It’s a global car, catering to all tastes, which undoubtedly leads to some compromises and may account for a lack of sparkle.
Mazda markets itself as a highly reliable sporty alternative to the mainstream, with its “zoom zoom” tagline. So it seems odd that it has, once again, opted to ignore a three-door format, with the new car only available as a five-door hatchback and four-door saloon.
Where it does well is inside, with a driver-orientated design. A higher central console means the gearstick and controls are very much to hand, while deep-set dials add to the sports feel. There is nothing new in this format – Toyota attempted a similar design with the Auris – but this is better executed, not only in ergonomics but also in the quality of materials.
While we would need more time testing the car to make definite assertions, initial impressions suggest the cabin could become something of a benchmark in its class. In particular the seating position and seat bolsters deserve mention.
Sadly, exterior design lacks a similar sparkle. For all the claims about design links to evocative concept cars, the 3 carries a great resemblance to the outgoing model and it’s only through closer inspection that you spot the differences. Of some compensation is that the saloon is the better looking – given Irish preferences, that should hold it in good stead.
The most identifiable difference between a new and old Mazda3 is the lower sweeping bonnet that replaces the grille on the current models. For all the design implication of this, the reason is primarily to do with aerodynamics, greatly improved in this model.
Similarly, the new car boasts several weight-saving initiatives, most notably in the bodyshell, adding up to a 15kg reduction. This is despite the fact the it boasts a bigger cabin and more headroom. Rear seat space is surprisingly good.
All these adjustments help push the more efficient engines towards fuel savings and emissions ratings that are among the best in class. Two petrol engines (a 1.6-litre 104bhp and 2-litre 148bhp) and two diesels (a 1.6-litre 108bhp and a 2.2-litre) are on offer. Given the significant torque advantage, along with fuel savings and lower emissions, the diesels will clearly be favoured by Irish buyers. While the 2.2-litre, taken from the new Mazda6, is the powerhouse, with either 148bhp or 183bhp, the 1.6-litre diesel is the star.
Punching out ample low-end torque – with 240Nm on offer - it pushes the Mazda3 along at motorway speeds without breaking a sweat. Mazda also claims a significant reduction in the noise and vibration. Engine noise has certainly been reduced, though on a blustery day it was hard to make a judgment. The car remains well poised on the road, thanks in part to a reworked suspension system, and we were impressed by improved braking ability.
The big news is that it manages a combined fuel consumption of 4.5l/100km and an emissions figure of 119g/km, putting it in the lowest tax bracket. Even the 2.2-litre diesel remains relatively frugal when it comes to fuel, recording 5.4l/100km and 144g/ km or 5.6l/100km and 149g/km, depending on the power output.
Shortly after launch, a stop/ start version will be offered, though only on the 2-litre petrol version. Plans are also in place for a biofuel variant. For those more concerned with performance than fuel economy, a 2.3-litre 250bhp MPS performance version will also be introduced.
Prices have yet to be confirmed, but a spokesman says an increase is likely on the current range, which starts at €20,615 for the hatchback and €21,115 for the saloon.
Given the plummeting new car sales market, no estimates of sales are being made, except that the brand hopes to hold its current market share.
Mazda has built a strong reputation here – and the new Mazda3 fits the bill.
Factfile Mazda3
Engines:
Petrol: 1.6-litre 104bhp putting out 145Nm of torque, 149g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 4.5l/100km; 2-litre 148bhp putting out 187Nm of torque, 183g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 7.7l/100km
Diesel: 1.6-litre 108bhp putting out 240Nm of torque, 119g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 4.5l/100km; 2.2-litre diesel in two versions: 148hp putting out 360Nm of torque, 144g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 5.4l/100km; 183hp putting out 400Nm of torque, 149g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 5.6l/100km
Standard equipment: six airbags; stability and traction control; brake assist; 15" steel wheels. Five specification levels will be offered, including three levels on the 1.6-litre diesel. Higher specifications will include air-con, 16" alloys, parking sensors, blind spot alert system, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, Bose sound system and leather seats
Prices: yet to be confirmed, but expect to start above €20,600 for hatchback and €21,500 for saloon