Does the idea of forced induction on an already-sporty Mazda3 sound, well, forced? Apparently, Mazda doesn’t think so. In response to incessant tweets asking when the model will actually come to embody Mazda’s “zoom zoom” ideal, the Japanese carmaker has released a teaser video hinting at what’s next for the hatchback version of its award-winning compact car.
The world will see a return of the Mazda3 turbo on July 8
The cryptic 13-second clip doesn’t even mention the Mazda3 by name, just the sound of a seemingly angry four-cylinder that’s raring to bust out of the garage. In between snippets of a dynamic red background, the ad announces July 8, 2020 as the date of the variant’s arrival.
Mazda has made no secret of its plans to bolt a turbo on the Mazda3 Sportback’s 2.5L SkyActiv mill. The last time the model ran around with a blower under the hood was by way of a turbocharged 2.3L MZR L-Series engine in 2013, which was incidentally the final year with Mazdaspeed bits. This time around, those hoping for a return of the performance badge will be sorely disappointed. An all-wheel drivetrain has yet to be confirmed, but is strongly hinted at.
Turbocharging was last seen on the Mazda3 during its third generaition
If it does come to pass, the model will likely end up with the same engine powering the Mazda6, CX-5, and CX-9 that kicks up 250 hp and 420 Nm of torque. This puts the VW GTI and the Subaru WRX within the Mazda3's crosshairs. Unfortunately, the only way for the Mazda to swap cogs would be through a six-speed automatic.
The new turbo Mazda3 passes on a manual gearbox in favor of an automatic
On the non-performance side of things, a new Mazda 3 variant is rumored to pack a 2.0L engine, slotting below the current naturally-aspirated 2.5L for the U.S. market. There’s also talk of Mazda coming up with Anniversary editions of its entire vehicle lineup in 2021 featuring a white-and-red color scheme with unique badging, commemorating the company’s founding in 1920. The carmaker has neither confirmed nor denied the speculations.
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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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