All-new Mazda3: first Philippine photos and pricing

Mazda3. INQUIRER photo by WALTER C. VILLA

Mazda has introduced the all-new Mazda3 sedan and hatchback, on a press drive to Baler, Aurora in Quezon Province. The new cars represent the third generation of the Japanese company’s best-seller. The Philippines barely got the second generation last year, under new distributor Berjaya Auto, a Malaysian company, before the all-new car arrived this year.

Mazda says that the new car is lower and leaner, with a 61mm longer wheelbase, but shorter in total length by 15mm. Total length is 4580mm. The hatchback is shorter at 4460mm, a decrease of 46mm.

Two engine variants will be on offer: a 2.0-liter with 120ps and 210Nm, and a 1.5-liter with 100ps and 150Nm. Both will feature the brand’s Skyactiv technology, which uses high compression ratio to achieve better fuel mileage. The 2.0-liter R variant will feature Mazda’s i-Eloop. Standing for Intelligent Energy Loop, the system captures kinetic energy when braking and stores it in a capacitor. The captured energy is used to power the car’s electricals such as headlights, aircon and audio system, particularly when the car is stopped. The engine can then shut down to conserve fuel.

The 2.0-liter will feature 18-inch wheels, moonroof, and leather seats. The 1.5-liter will roll on 16-inch alloys.  Mazda3 will be imported from Japan.

Pricing: P1.195 M for the 2.0L R four-door, and P945,000 for the 1.6L V four-door. Like the first generation, all Mazda3 cars will be equipped with automatic transmission. Those favoring hatchbacks will have to add P3,000 to the sedan prices. All Mazda dealers are accepting orders, with deliveries to commence first week of May.