2019 New Mazda 3 Review
Published Date: 4th Mar 2019
The Mazda 3 Is Mazda’s sleek looking mid-sized hatchback that rivals popular models like the Ford Focus, VW Golf & Seat Ibiza. The ‘3’ model features what Mazda call their latest ’Kudo’ design and their SKYACTIV technology that deliver larger engines (when many rivals are going for smaller turbocharged units) whilst at the same still delivering excellent running costs and efficiency.
2019 Mazda 3 Exterior
The Mazda 3 takes a lot of design cues from its larger sibling, the Mazda 6. It has a familiar ‘low’ design with a roof that flows smoothly to the rear of the vehicle. The sportier look is further enhanced with a longer bonnet. There's also newly designed front and rear bumpers, sleeker/angled light clusters and a larger front grille that give an altogether stronger look to this latest 4th generation Mazda 3.
There a strong argument to say the Mazda 3 is one of, if the not the sportiest looking hatchbacks in its segment.
2019 Mazda 3 Interior
Interior of the 2019 model has been a given a subtle facelift, it gets better quality materials moving it closer to a ‘premium’ feel with more ‘soft-touch’ finishes bringing it more in-line with rivals like the Focus and Golf and possibly encroaching on the Audi A3’s territory, especially with the introduction of a new fastback model.
The entire dashboard has a cleaner, more hi-tech look, there are fewer switches and buttons, whilst the new and improved touchscreen infotainment system remains in its central position of the dash. The new infotainment screen is also wider (8.8 inches) than the outgoing one. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also available for the full smartphone integrated experience.
The seats have been redesigned with a new more ergonomic shape, designed to increase comfort, especially on longer journeys and top spec models, the GT Sport and GT Sport Tech also get leather interior to further enhance the premium feel.
2019 Mazda 3 Engines
Mazda like to keep things fairly straight-forward when it comes to the engine range. The Mazda 3 engine range consists of a revised version of the 2.0 SkyActiv-G petrol engine (122bhp) or the 1.8 SkyActiv-D diesel engine (116bhp), both are available with 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
The big news is the new 2019 model gets a new ground-breaking 2.0 litre Skyactiv-X which shoud be available later in the year.
The new SkyActive-X engine which shoud be available mid to late 2019 will offer more power and torque than the older SkyActiv-G petrol but will offer economy figures more aligned to a diesel engine due to technology called Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SCCI). The new supercharged SkyActiv-X engine is expected to be available with an automatic transmission and will also feature an all-wheel drive option.
Numerous technologies are at work that allow Mazda to continue their trend of delivering larger engines that perform well, whilst still delivering remarkably low running costs and environmentally friendly engines. Cylinder Deactivation allows more economy when power demands are low and an intelligent Braking Regeneration system which ‘recycles’ kinetic energy from braking is part of what Mazda call its Mild Hybrid or ‘M-Hybrid’ system used with their petrol engines.
2019 Mazda 3 Models
Mazda don’t skimp when it comes to equipment, there are five trim levels and the entry-level SE-L model includes 16-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable and heated power-folding door mirrors, LED dusk sensing headlights with High Beam Control and daytime running lights.
Driver aids and safety features include electronic parking brake, rear parking sensor, radar cruise control, anti-lock braking system (ABS), blind spot monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, dynamic stability control (DSC), hill start assist, lane-keep assistant and lane departure warning system.
Inside you get the new 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with Bluetooth, hands-free phone calling, music streaming, USB socket, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB radio, sat nav, 8 speakers and steering wheel mounted controls. There’s also air con, front and rear electric windows and engine start/stop button.
The Mazda 3 SE-L LUX adds to the entry-level model with front AND rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, keyless entry and for extra comfort dual zone climate control.
Next in the line-up is the Sport LUX model adding some exterior styling like front body coloured bumpers with bright lower bezel, Signature LED rear combination lights, rear privacy glass and paddle shifters (automatic models).
The Mazda 3 GT Sport model add a memory and tilt function (when reversing) to the door mirrors, electrically adjustable front passenger and driver’s seat, head-up display, leather interior, heated steering wheel/heated front seats and premium Bose sound system with 12 speakers.
The range-topping Mazda 3 GT Sport Tech model adds some extra tech and driver aids including rear city brake, front cross traffic alert, cruising traffic support and driver monitor.
You can compare models, view full specs and browse the latest new Mazda 3 deals here.