The Mazda3 is one of the well-known daily drive vehicles in the country. The compact sedan got the key features to make it stand out against its competition such as great contemporary styling and optimum performance ratings.
The styling is so good that the Mazda3 bagged the 2020 World Car Design of the Year award. According to the judging panel, the Mazda3 wasn’t designed too fancily just to make it look good. Mazda’s design philosophy called the Kodo Design helped the Mazda3 bring a subtle and natural look.
There's no denying that the Mazda 3 is one very attractive looking sedan
Maybe this is the reason why Mazda did not update the exterior features of the Mazda3 for the 2021 model. And yes, the 2021 Mazda3 is now revealed in Japan. Looking at the compact car, you can already tell that no design changes have been made.
Well then, what are the updates the Japanese marque put in the Mazda3? Or the better question is, are there even changes? Read on as we tackle what we can expect from the 2021 Mazda3 and the early specifications we currently have right now.
2021 Mazda3: Exterior
No matter which angle you decide to view the Mazda3, you will never find a design change for the 2021 model. Mazda itself points out that the Mazda3 has gone through a very minor revision. This does not include the exterior feature.
This means that the new Mazda3 will still be rolling with the same sleek LED headlamps design with daytime running lights (DRL) and subtle body lines on the sides. If there is one word to describe the overall exterior design of the Mazda3, that would be minimalistic.
The 2020 Car Design of the Year winner
The minimalistic approach led the Mazda3 to win the prestigious design award for 2020. We could expect that Mazda will continue the current design of Mazda3 for a long time. Besides, the current fourth-generation Mazda3 came out in 2019 only so a complete rework is still far from reality.
However, there is a Mazda3 100th-anniversary special edition revealed by the Japanese marque as part of the compact sedan’s win as the car design of the year. It comes with a different front fender ornament and custom 100th-anniversary special edition seats, wheels, key fob, and badges. Unfortunately, Mazda clarified that the special edition is only available in Japan.
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2021 Mazda3: Interior
Just like the exterior, the interior features aren’t updated. The new Mazda3 is still coming with a black interior with leather-trimmed sport seats for the top-spec, while the Mazda3 Sportback Speed variants’ seats get red accents. Despite having no changes, the interior of the Mazda3 still looks like it would last for a good two to three years.
The Mazda3 comes with a simple yet classy interior
Two of the updates the Mazda3 got are the improved coil springs and shock absorbers. Technically these are not part of the interior, but thanks to the added features, drivers and passengers can now experience a smoother traveling experience inside. Mazda shared that the new Mazda3’s suspension now moves more smoothly, resulting in less vibration in the cabin.
2021 Mazda3: Engine and performance
Mazda said that the purpose of the minor updates for 2021 is to improve the Mazda3’s overall package. With that in mind, the Japanese marque introduced a new gasoline engine called the e-Skyactiv X. The said engine is capable of making 190 hp and 240 Nm of torque thanks to its new mild-hybrid technology.
Moreover, the Skyactiv-D engine, which uses a diesel powertrain, has also been improved for those wish for a bigger punch for their daily drive. The diesel engine is capable of generating 130 hp and 270 Nm of torque.
Some Filipinos would love to get their hands on a diesel-powered Mazda3
As promising as those engines sound, they are highly unlikely to be introduced by Mazda Philippines in the local market. The e-Skyactiv X and Skyactiv-D engines are said to be available in Japan by January next year.
This means that we will probably still get the 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engines capable of making 109 hp and 146 Nm of torque, and 152 hp and 200 Nm of torque, respectively. Both engines are paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission and come with a Sport Mode.
2021 Mazda3: On-board tech and safety features
As part of Mazda’s objective to rework the Mazda3’s overall package, the key software has been updated to control the engine at optimum operation. The operating range of the Cruising Traffic Support has been increased which helps set the ideal trailing distance.
The adaptive cruise control is also another vehicular software that has been updated by Mazda. These software updates plus the improved suspension and coil springs will thoroughly provide drivers and passengers with smoother and safer road travels.
Needless to say, the Mazda3 is a well-designed vehicle from front to back
The 2021 PH-spec Mazda3 is expected to still come with the same 7-inch touch screen monitor available for the top-spec variant. Some of the safety features in the Mazda3 include blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, and smart brake support.
>>> Related: Mazda PH launches limited edition Mazda3 and MX-5 100th-anniversary models
2021 Mazda3: Final thoughts
Overall, it seems like Mazda is going for an automotive branding that offers the market with a premium feel vehicles at relatively more affordable price points. In consideration of the minor updates, we can see that Mazda is prioritizing comfort while other car brands focus on making their vehicles look sportier or flashier.
No exterior updates, no problem
The 2021 Mazda3 is one for the people who wish to daily drive a vehicle that offers a premium and comfortable feel without having to exaggerate the design. As of this writing, Mazda Philippines hasn’t released any statement regarding the matter we would have to wait a bit further.
2021 Mazda3: Expected pricing
Mazda Philippines currently offers the Mazda3 with two variants, namely the Elite and Premium. The Elite is the base variant that comes with a Php 1,295,000 price tag, while the top-spec Premium variant comes with a Php 1,495,000. Moreover, the Mazda3 Sportback Elite is offered at Php 1,320,000, while the Sportback Premium for Php 1,510,000.
The Mazda3 is expected to perform steadily in the market
With the integration of the improved shock absorbers, coil springs, and software updates, one can expect the Mazda3 to come with a slightly increased price tag if they were to be introduced by Mazda Philippines.
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Know more about Mazda 3 2024
The 2024 Mazda3 is a compact sedan sold in the Philippines. Locally, the sedan version of this model has two variants: the Mazda3 Sport 2.0 AT, and the Mazda3 M Hybrid 2.0 AT. Mazda 3 price Philippines starts at ₱1,510,000 for the entry-level Mazda3 Sport 2.0 AT, while the top-of-the-line Mazda3 M Hybrid 2.0 AT is priced at ₱1,840,000.
For engines, the Mazda3 has two engine options. The Sport trim uses a 2.0-liter inline-4 gasoline engine, while the M Hybrid uses a 2.0-liter inline-4 gasoline that works in conjunction with an integrated electric starter motor. At maximum, the non-hybrid engine can make 152 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. The one with the hybrid powertrain, in turn, can produce 162 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. Both versions are front-wheel-drive, and both use a six-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters.
Size-wise, the Philippine-spec Mazda3 is 4,660mm long, 1,795mm wide, and 1,445mm in height. It also has a wheelbase length of 2,725mm.
Locally, the Mazda3 2024 competes against the likes of the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis, Kia Forte, among others.
Mazda 3 Launch
For 2024, Mazda Philipines updated the Mazda 3 sedan and gave it more in the way of on-board tech. There are also two variants for the new Mazda 3, namely, the 3 M Hybrid 2.0 AT, and the 3 Sport 2.0 AT. As the name implies, the M Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G 2.0 engine combined with an integrated starter generator.
Mazda 3 Exterior
Compared to its previous generation’s design, the facelifted Mazda3 follows a more minimalist aesthetic. True to the Kodo design language, the sedan comes with more curves and rounded edges than stiff angles. Accompanying the mesh-designed grille in front are sleek LED headlamps and daytime running lamps as standard. The top-range variant steps it up a notch with high beam controls that are said to eliminate the need for fog lamps.
A minimalistic approach to the design
Both variants for the 2024 Mazda 3 ride on 18-inch alloy wheels.
Mazda 3 Interior
Mazda Philippines offers the sedan with a spacious cabin has a 5-passenger seating capacity with ample legroom and headroom. Specific trims and features differ between the two variant levels although both come in a black interior.
Not flashy but manages to look premium
For adjustability, both trims of the 2024 Mazda 3 come with electronically adjustable driver's seats.
Mazda 3 2024 Colors
The Philippine-spec Mazda 3 sedan can come in seven different colors. These include red (Soul Crystal Red), gray (Machine Grey and Polymetal Grey), white (Snowflake White Pearl), Blue (Deep Crystal Blue) Black (Jet Black), and Platinum Quartz.
Technology & Safety Features
The Mazda3 comes with a slew of new technology and safety features. Both variants are equipped with rain-sensing wipers, push start and stop button, auto-dimming rearview mirror, front dual-zone automatic climate control, rear ventilation Louvres, and front windshield projected active driving display HUD features as standard. Gauges are displayed through a 7” LCD meter set.
The Japanese car brand offers premium quality only
Furthermore, variants now come with a more extensive range of safety features that include radar cruise control and the I-Activesense system. This suite includes blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, smart brake support (forward and reverse), and driver attention alert for road hazards.
In terms of infotainment, the Mazda 3 is equipped with Mazda Connect through an 8.8” touchscreen monitor. It is capable of Pandora internet radio integration and Bluetooth Hands-Free technology. Audio comes out of a 12-speaker Bose sound system.
Platform & Chassis
The 4-door sedan rides on a Mazda BP platform with a McPherson Strut front suspension and torsion beam axle at the rear. Stopping power comes from ventilated discs in front and rear solid discs. Both variants are equipped with electric parking brakes with auto brake hold systems.
Simple yet classy
Engine & Drivetrain
There are two engine options offered by Mazda Philippines. The Mazda 3 sedan Sport variant uses a 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G gasoline engine capable of making up to 152 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque.
Look fancy on the go with the Mazda3
The second powertrain for the Mazda 3 sedan is found on the M Hybrid. It still uses the same 2.0-liter mill as the Mazda 3 Sport sedan, but it is paired with an integrated starter motor, as well as a 24-volt lithium-ion battery. Combined, this system can produce up to 162 horsepower and 213 Nm of torque.
For transmissions, both trims use a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
In terms of power, the 2024 Mazda3 sits in the middle of the local compact sedan totem pole. It is also a match against its high-tech competitors like the Toyota Corolla Altis and Honda Civic when it comes to providing driver-assist tech and features. It also comes with a premium-feeling interior, which is also par-for-the-course regarding modern sedans in its price range. The sole weakness of the Mazda3 is its price of acquisition, which is a bit stiffer than the competition’s.
Mazda 3 Pros & Cons
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Mazda 3 Q&A
1. Does the 2024 Mazda 3 have a remote start?
2. Is the Mazda 3 Philippines a good car?
Yes, the Mazda 3 is one of the Filipino drivers' top choices when it comes to driving on busy roads of the metro.
3. Is the Mazda 3 a sedan car?
Mazda 3 has two body types: sedan and hatchback.
4. What is the wheelbase length of Mazda 3 2024?
The wheelbase length of the new Mazda 3 is 2,725m.
5. How many colors are available for the Mazda 3?
The Mazda3 has a total of seven color options. There are Red, Machine Grey, Polymetal Grey, White, Blue, Black, and Platinum Quartz.
₱ 1,495,000 - ₱ 1,695,000
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