All-new Mazda3 takes the stage in New York (pictures)
Mazda followed the 2012 engine update to the Mazda3 with an entirely new rebuild of its hatchback model, unveiling the 2014 model today at a special event in New York.
Mazda released a major update to its Mazda3 hatchback model in 2012, giving it a new engine based on its Skyactiv efficiency technology. But as we found out today, that model was a mere teaser for the entirely rebuilt model shown off in New York today.
The redesigned and rebuilt model uses Mazda's Skyactiv principles to shed weight, helping increase fuel economy. Mazda says it used higher-tensile steel and evaluated over 300 components in the car to reduce weight, although no specifications were given as to the new curb weight.
With the 2012 model, Mazda showed off its new Skyactiv 2-liter engine, using direct injection to achieve 155 horsepower. This new 2014 model will give buyers a choice of that 2-liter engine, or a new 2.5-liter Skyactiv engine making 184 horsepower. Although Mazda offers diesel engines in other markets, that option will not be offered in the U.S.
Standard on the Mazda3 will be 16-inch painted steel wheels. Buyers can opt for 16-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels.
Along with the styling changes, Mazda reduced the length of the Mazda3 by almost 2 inches, while extending the wheelbase, which should aid handling and ride comfort. Height was also reduced, although the car model was widened.
True to its 10-year history, the Mazda3 remains a hatchback. Mazda won't offer a sedan version, which may hurt sales in the U.S., where buyers prefer trunks.
Mazda says the interior headroom loses 0.6 inch, although hip room is widened by 1.6 inches. Transmission options will be a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, the latter using a better lock-up range for tighter, more-efficient gear changes.
Mazda will offer a number of driver assistance technologies, such as laser-based low-speed automatic braking, a blind-spot monitor, and radar-based adaptive cruise control.
The Mazda3 comes with a whole new cabin electronics system, with SD card-based navigation, stereo, and phone information shown on this fixed center LCD. The car will integrate Harman-Kardon's Aha Internet radio system, which runs on the driver's smartphone.
This console-mounted controller lets the driver manipulate and select cabin electronics features shown on the main LCD.
A clear panel, placed in front of the driver and sticking up from the dashboard, serves as a head-up display. It will show speed and other useful driving data.
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