Mazda has released the first images of the new Mazda3, the car which will be taking on the new Volkswagen Golf and the Ford Focus in the family hatchback market.
The new Mazda3 features the Japanese manufacturer's innovative SkyActiv technology and comes a smart new exterior look influenced by Mazda's current KODO design language.
From launch there will be three petrol engines and one diesel on offer. The new 1.5-litre petrol SkyActive engine develops 99bhp and is capable of 0-62moh in 10.8 seconds. Notably, the engine has a compression ratio of 14:1, the highest for any petrol production car.
Also on offer will be a 2.0-litre petrol engine in two states of tune, developing either 118bhp or 162bhp. A 2.2-litre oil-burner completes the line-up, with 148bhp and 280lb-ft of torque, fiving a 0-62mph time of 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 130mph.
Mazda has yet to release any economy or emissions figures for the Maxda3 range, but given the excellent reputation Mazda's SkyActiv engines are already earning in the Mazda6 and the CX-5, we'd be very surprised if they aren't class-leading.
The new Mazda3 is longer, wider and taller than the model it replaces, making for a more spacious and comfortable cabin. Boot space is up by 10-litres to 350-litres and Mazda claims that the new car will have one of the quietest cabins in the class thanks to a range of new lightweight soundproofing materials.
Buyers can also opt for a new improved infotainment system, which features a seven-inch touchscreen display and -- for the first time on a Mazda -- internet connectivity.
The Mazda3 is expected to go on sale later this year and while UK prices have yet to be confirmed, we'd expect the Mazda3 to cost from around £16,000.
Click here to sign up for our monthly newsletter
Related used car searches
Search used Mazda
Search used Mazda
Search used Mazda 3
