One of Europe’s most powerful compacts just got a bit sportier. Featuring assorted new body accents, the 191 kW/260 PS Mazda3 MPS stands out with richer contrasts and a more dynamic overall look for the new model year. The side mirrors, inner roof spoiler and rear apron, for example, are clad in a Black Mica [...]

Mazda3 achieved a striking result on the latest EcoTest from the German Automobile Club (ADAC). A Mazda3 1.6-litre petrol with 77 kW/105 PS was the only car of the eight tested models to use less fuel than the official average published by the manufacturer. Instead of a fuel-consumption average (on the New European Driving Cycle) of 6.4 litres as given by Mazda, ADAC experts measured the Mazda3 1.6-litre on their new and stricter EcoTest at just 6.3 litres per 100/km. All other tested models – including vehicles with petrol, diesel and electric powertrains – were at times far above their officially published average for fuel consumption.

The Mazda3 facelift inherits equipment and safety technologies that make it easy to enjoy the ride. The list of equipment is long and now includes a new gear-shift indicator and an affordable navigation system to go along with state-of-the-art options to meet just about every need.

Over the past two years, the Mazda3 line-up has been expanded by several new engines and derivatives bringing the total number of different powertrains to seven. For the Mazda3 facelift, this outstanding portfolio is expanded to eight with the introduction of a new 1.6-litre petrol model with automatic transmission, and all but two engines have been enhanced to deliver better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

The 2011 facelift carries forth the Mazda3 reputation for agility and easy handling by introducing new features that improve ride quality and handling stability. The result is a facelift model that is even more fun and predictable to drive on a daily basis.

When it comes to head-turning good looks, Mazda3 is already one of the market’s most appealing compact line-ups with an aggressive hatchback and a sporty yet elegant sedan. This was confirmed less than two years ago, when a poll of 200,000 AutoBild readers across Europe voted Mazda3 Europe’s best-looking compact. For the facelift version, designers focused on updates that would continue the car’s emotional appeal. They redesigned the front end to be more aggressive and aerodynamic, and reduced rear bumper thickness. These changes give the exterior a well-toned muscular appearance that underscores the car’s solid build quality. This focus was carried through to the inside as well, where new materials and colours enhance quality feel, while the optimized ergonomics make the Mazda3 facelift easier to use.

When the very first Mazda3 was launched in 2003 it was more than a continuation of Mazda’s long compact history, it was a revelation.
The new compact looked sportier than most compacts at the time and was exciting to drive. People took notice and Mazda3 quickly led the way in a rebirth of the Mazda brand around the world, reaching the 1-million production mark sooner than any Mazda model before it. The current second-generation model followed in 2008 and introduced an aggressive front end design. It remains the company’s most popular car with almost 3 million sold globally.

At the Frankfurt Motor Show last week, Mazda was presented with a coveted “Euro NCAP* Advanced” award for its innovative rear vehicle monitoring system (RVM) used in the current Mazda3. NCAP began recognising car manufacturers who introduce new safety technologies that are scientifically-proven to make driving safer.

The Mazda Rear Vehicle Monitoring system (RVM) available on the Mazda3 will receive a coveted “Euro NCAP Advanced” award at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) next month. Euro NCAP reviewed the Mazda RVM and were impressed by its many safety benefits. It helps a driver avoid dangerous situations or even collisions with other vehicles during a lane change.

Mazda customers are some of the most satisfied in Europe. This was underscored again recently by two J.D. Powers Customer Satisfaction Surveys for 2011 in Germany and the United Kingdom. In both these key automotive markets, around 17,000 car owners were asked to rate their car according to driving dynamics, handling, low ownership costs, mechanical reliability and interior quality.