In this video,​ Amelia reviews the all-new​ Mazda3. It’s one of the most popular cars and we do love our Mazda’s here in Australia, so Amelia explores what they have done to keep us loving them. Popularity of the small car segment has greatly increased the number of competitors, so we are seeing a lot of manufacturers really turn up the plush. In order to compete with and even surpass the rest, Mazda had to come up with a way to make their latest 3 more appealing within the given price range.

2.0L SKYACTIV-G (AUTO)

Engine type: 2.0 L in-line 4 cylinder petrol
Maximum power: 114 kW @ 6,000 rpm
Maximum torque: 200 Nm @ 4,000rpm
Emissions standard: Euro stage 5
Average consumption: 6.2 L /100km)
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Kerb weight: 1,338kg

2.5L SKYACTIV-G (AUTO)

Engine type: 2.5 L in-line 4 cylinder petrol
Maximum power: 139 kW @ 6,000 rpm
Maximum torque: 252 Nm @ 4,000rpm
Emissions standard: Euro stage 5
Average consumption: 6.6 L /100km)
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Kerb weight: 1,368kg

The new Mazda3 now features rear torsion beam. The front still features McPherson suspension, but it’s been revised as has the G Vectoring Plus system. The latter should provide better grip and more stability. The body is also stiffer now as is the chassis.

The Drive

When compared to its predecessor, ​the new Mazda3 is significantly better to drive. The sporty feel is upped a fair notch and its a bit more comfortable. On the other hand, compared to some of its competitors it is a bit stiffer and that clearly shows the sporty nature of the new Mazda3.
Some of the safety features for the G20 Evolve include electric parking brake, auto hold, hill launch assist, i-stop, G-Vectoring Plus system, radar cruise control with stop and go function, advanced keyless entry and start, ABS, blind spot monitoring, driver attention alert, dynamic stability control, EBD, emergency brake assist, forward obstruction warning, hill launch assist, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors, rear cross traffic alert, rear view camera, smart brake support, traction control and traffic sign recognition. Optional features include a 360 camera, cruising and traffic support, front cross traffic alert and front parking sensors. Many of the safety features are present across the range. Which is very nice but also explains that price tag.
The entry-level Mazda3 G20 pure starts at 29k this G20 evolve is just over 30k and by the time you work your way up to the top trim G25 Astina you’re looking at over 41k. That is a hefty price tag but in all fairness,​ it truly is a deserving car. People looking for ample space in the boot and rear seats are not very likely to look at small hatchbacks at all. And therefore Amelia says the new Mazda3 ticks all the main boxes and stays one of the best cars to buy in this class. Now, let’s see that SKYACTIV-X.