We got the opportunity to get up close with the all-new Mazda 3 in Japan as part of an ASEAN sneak preview, so here’s a few galleries of the C-segment model in both sedan and hatchback body styles. The latest Mazda 3 is the first in the Japanese carmaker’s next-generation product line-up, and utilises the SkyActiv-Architecture platform that promises to deliver better ride comfort and performance on the road.
Dimension-wise, the hatchback now measures 4,459 mm long (-1 mm compared to its predecessor), 1,797 mm wide (+2 mm) and 1,440 mm tall (-10 mm). The sedan on the other hand, is 4,662 mm long (+82 mm), 1,797 mm wide (+2 mm) and 1,445 mm tall (+5 mm). Both also have a longer wheelbase at 2,725 mm (+25 mm).
Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy is showcased with the new model, with particular emphasis on styling the hatchback to be the “bolder” choice compared to the sedan. From the front, the hatchback’s grille mesh features a diamond pattern as compared to flat pins found on the sedan. You’ll also notice the lower apron of the hatchback is devoid of the corner “inlets” that are seen on the sedan.
In profile, the differences between both body styles are even more apparent, and they aren’t limited to just the roofline and added boot space on the sedan. As previewed by the Vision Coupe from the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, Mazda’s manipulation of light and shadow when shaping the sheet metal results in dramatic reflections when viewing the car from different angles.
This approach eliminates the need for prominent creases, and is evident on the Mazda 3, albeit with differing results. Where the reflections formed on the sedan can be considered “soothing,” the hatchback has a swooping arch that forms on the rear doors.
This curved back look is meant to accentuate the dramatic (and rather thick) C-pillar design, which should split opinions. Another minor point of distinction is the application of chrome on the window frame, whereby a long strip is placed above the window on the sedan, and below on the hatchback.
Moving towards the rear, both body types adopt a dual-circle design for the taillights, along with twin exhaust pipes. Once again, the hatchback, with its strong haunches, commands a greater presence than the sedan, which appears “tamer” by comparison.
A small note for those who are curious; the car on the far right (in the first photo) is finished in a new colour exclusive to the hatchback known as Polymetal Grey. It also comes fitted with a few optional extras available in Japan like a more aggressive front bumper, side skirts, a rear diffuser, a roof spoiler, black side mirror caps and 18-inch BBS forged aluminium wheels.
Getting back on topic, Mazda chief designer Yasutake Tsuchida explained that the design idea for the new Mazda 3 is “beauty through subtraction,” which as you can see, is exemplified on the exterior. However, this extends into the car’s cabin that is identical on the sedan and hatchback.
The new layout places greater focus on the driver, with two dedicated air vents and an infotainment display angled towards the person behind the wheel. The latter is now an 8.8-inch unit that is positioned further forward now, warranting the loss of touchscreen functionality. While some may lament this revision, the company says the latest Mazda Connect system (the new Mazda 3 is the first to get it) linked to the display has been completely revamped to deliver a more intuitive experience, negating the change.
Another display is found in the instrument cluster, where a seven-inch TFT-LCD unit (with multiple display functions) sits between two circles with analogue gauges within them. A head-up display that now projects further forward on the windscreen is also another new addition here.
In other areas, the passenger air vents are positioned on a horizontal plane that also features the climate controls and engine start button. Mazda has also overhauled the centre console for better ergonomics and practicality, starting with the centre console lid/arm rest whose “karakuri” mechanism involves sliding the lid back before it is lifted up so the elbow isn’t excessively raised.
The space under the lid is now much larger too, and can accommodate an iPad, smartphone and sunglasses comfortably. Ahead of this area is where you’ll find the infotainment controls followed by the gear lever, covered cupholders and a small storage cubby.
We’ll have a more detailed post highlighting all that’s new with the Mazda 3 later, including our first impressions of the model. For now, what do you think of the car’s design? If you’re curious when the rival to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla Altis will arrive in Malaysia, we have early details here.
2019 Mazda 3 Hatchback
2019 Mazda 3 Hatchback with optional accessories
2019 Mazda 3 Sedan
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Close resemblance to legendary Mazda Lantis hatchback from that rear 3rd quarter.
Looking at these awesome game changing designs gallery made Proton cars looks extremely outdated
All these increases in dimensions and a big jump in wheelbase, and yet it appears to still have terrible interior space, poor rear legroom and no rear aircond vents. The Honda Civic has nothing to worry about for some time to come.
The hatchback’s rear cabin seem claustrophobic too with those small windows.
Would like to say the same too.. outer design have WOW factor especially front.. but interior.. mehh.. looks at dashboard and meter panel.. old man taste..
Dear Bermaz CEO, in case u r wondering, the shiny Mazda logo at the front shows that there is MRCC (Mazda Radar Cruise Control). All the Mazdas that we Malaysia can get here came with hollow logo, means we dont get the MRCC. How come? Even the Thailand specced Mazdas which are exported from Malaysia, u can specced with MRCC. U think we Malaysian cant afford it? Or MRCC is useless and dangerous compared to Honda’s ACC, Nissan, Proton or even Volvo? Wake up sir! Dont be lazy.
What a sexy beast..kudos to mazda for this beauty..glad nowadays so many cars model can be choose from on this class..good for competition amongs car makers..
Why this car is so expensive at RM137k? Very simple. Because cheap China car like the Proton X70 already selling RM123k (although in China it is RM60k), so other manufacturers also tembak lah and sell their cars more than a Proton.
So RM123k and RM137k is supposed to be normal in Malaysia
So how does your logic works when Civic & Corolla Altis sells at a much lower price?
Most idiotic thing I have read. If follow your logic, why Mazda3 not below 100k when there was no X70 in the past? Want to bash Proton also come out with better excuse lah wei. You think we all here same dumb dumb like you, is it?
Learn to respect all other users here. Don’t be like the bodoh BN samseng supporters
Respect is reserved for those that deserves it. A troll that constantly spew BS and lies is not of them. BTW, I know Zaman Khan is another of your dupes so SAU PEI LAR!
I don’t know who tf is Zaman Khan. I don’t even type like him you idiot! Cannot differentiate different users then don’t comment :D
HAHAHAHAHA got triggered by a troll dupe account :maslanbingung:
Bro, he is really coming from HyundaiToyotaP2 Salesman. Showroom is already kosong but still want to come event articles and bash Proton. Even he also bash other carmakers like Mercedes, Volvo, BMW, Kia and Ford and even other carmakers as well. So now as what john had mentioned in earlier post, he is very fear and very jealous about Proton and Kia that will be higher than Toyota and Hyundai. Not only that, he is also fear that Perodua will not be no.1 as national carmaker
Guys, pls read my second statement because I didn’t check my few minors of words/grammars for my first statement. Also, I didn’t check my correct email address for first statement
Bro, he is really coming from HyundaiToyotaP2 Salesman. Showroom is already kosong but still want to come every articles and bash Proton. Even he also bash other carmakers like Mercedes, Volvo, BMW, Kia and Ford and even other carmakers as well. So now as what john had mentioned in earlier post, he is very fear and very jealous about Proton and Kia that will be higher than Toyota and Hyundai. Not only that, he is also fear that Perodua will not be no.1 as national carmaker
How can someone work for 3 different rival brands at the same time? Use common sense, Wilson.
Show us proof that equivalent Boyue is selling for 60k in China or you are just another salesman troll!
It will be a new challenge for our own malaysian ‘ketuk mud guard’ laoban if this new mazda 3 owner come after accident,even for minor one.
The Soul Red paintjob is already a headache for normal accident repair workshops.
Like – Honda Civic VTEC Turbo and Toyota Altis 1.8 & 2.0
Dislike – Mazda 3 Skyactiv 1.5 and 2.0
hey PaulTan team, just a feedback on the browsing of the images. I noticed I can no longer scroll the pics using my keyboard arrow keys. Also on mobile, the “next image” option isn’t there anymore, so we need to keep clicking on the images separately.
To be fair, it’s easier browsing the images in Carbase.my so it not all bad.
Guys, the things that missing since Mazda launch their first KODO design language is the coefficient drag [Cd] figure. Do you able to get the info Paultan Team?
I’m interested to know how they tune the gear ratio. As for the current lineup (Skyactiv-G based model) the final drive is only 3.5 the range from 1st to 6th is 4.3 to 0.5 [forget the last one].
FYI, VW DSG final drive is 5+ [thats why the car pecut laju like a lipas kudung].
My bet is since the car retain the engine and depending the car weight, they might tune the transmission a bit lower especially 6th for emission purpose.
RM137000 for a 1.5L model is peanut for us Malaysian. We UBAH to a better government. Now that we do not have to pay for GST (all prices go down a lot), no tolls to pay, our currency is the best in the world, paying RM137000 for a car is not an issue for us anymore.
Looking forward to buy this car. I plan to buy 2.
Sarcasm at its best!
If Toyota Vios 2019 considered as facelift model which using old engine and chassis platform, then this Mazda 3 2019/2020 shall be marketed as facelift as well. You know why? Let me tell you. This Mazda 3 2019/2020 is still using old tech engine SkyActiv G 2.0L 2.5L which have been carried over since two generations before in 2011 while the chassis platform is still the same as previous generation.
ignoring everything (the usual malaysian pessimists and our mad malaysian prices), this is a brilliant car.
Dear Bermaz CEO
please strip off all the useless and overprice gadjet and safety tech for malaysia market mazda 3, malaysian are too dumb to even use this new technology
malaysian prefer old tech engine too
not the new sky active X
regards
Bermaz shareholder
This is a car forum which meant for car enthusiast for godsake, if u wnt to politicise pls go elsewhere.
This is the pinnacle of design coming from Japan compared to other Japanese carmakers. Although it lacks in space n pricier, Mazda is a good carmaker and should continue to outpace the other 2 giant carmakers in terms of design and drivability. Kudos.
Instead of bashing and belittle others maybe we should reflect on ourselves and appreciate the small speck of beauty once in awhile.
1.5 na engine priced at RM137. Come on be realistic. Is similar to city, vios and other b segment car engine. I’m sure everyone will praise further if mazda put 1.8 or 2.0 engine