Our dear Philkotse.com readers already might know, Mazda president Akira Marumoto has previously denied the rumors that the company is planning to resurrect the Mazdaspeed brand. Mazda even went on to deny in a statement last year that a speedy high-performance Mazda 3 is in the works.
Whether something changed within Mazda or they just felt that it needed to be kept secret up until now, we will never know. But the fact of the matter is, the Mazda 3 program head honcho, Kota Beppu has recently expressed interest in developing and building a go-fast Mazda 3 to which he had referred to as a “hyper” version. That being said, Mazda might indeed retain the Zoom-Zoom spirit of their company.
As of this date, (and according to insiders), Mazda has already been hard at work in choosing the best engine best suit this so-called Mazda 3 "Hyper" hatch and as such, they’ve already found what they are looking for: A turbocharged 2.5 liter engine from the CX-9.
The four-cylinder engine in question can make about 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque on their current CX-9 models but the company is yet mum on the figures it will take on the Mazda 3.
Beppu also said that the hyper Mazda 3 hot hatch ideally will use Mazda’s AWD system to avoid torque steer and also, they would avoid making the car depend or even using hybrid power to boost performance. This is in line with Mazda’s general future plans to NOT produce hybrids at least in the American market in five years.
What would they add with the upcoming Mazda 3 hyper-hatch?
Mazda as we also know can already produce a good 2.5-liter turbo engine, a competent and smooth manual transmission, and of course their own AWD system. That three in a combo is yet to be seen from Mazda.
This makes some folks question if the said engine will be a suitable powerplant for the hyper hatch Mazda 3 as in its powerful, most optimal tune it only makes 250 HP.
None, however, question the torque figures made however as the 310 pound-feet it can make can already match up against the likes of the Golf GTI which can only make 258 pound-feet and even the Honda Civic Type R’s 295 pound-feet.
The car company also reported that the most demand for a Mazda 3 hyper hatch came mostly from more developed markets like Australia, Japan, and the US. They express concern however is if the car can meet the emissions requirements in some other countries.
While waiting for the official debut of new Mazda 3 hyper hatch, check out our Mazda 3 2018 review to have a deeper look of Mazda flagship model.
Mazda 3 2019 can make 400 hp. So excited about Mazda 3 hyper hatch!
Lastly, Mazda is currently closely listening to their fanbase and current customers with regards to how they desire a faster, meaner Mazda 3. From this Mazda is hoping to justify the development and manufacturing of the Mazda 3 hyper hatch.
This brings us to a point where the Philippines or even Thailand wasn’t even mentioned in their consideration for releasing the said car.
As such, if you’re really into fast cars and have a desire to relive the glory of the Rx-7 or the legendary 90’s era of Asian sports cars, do take time to make a post on Mazda’s twitter or facebook or better yet give your dealership a ring to make your voice known as 2021 isn't as far away as one would like to think.
Stay tuned for more updated automotive news here at Philkotse.com
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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