Well, considering the market that is flooded one had the opportunity to dance and play with it lately, and to state the truth it is far from what has been mentioned.
Packed with 121kW and 210Nm, advanced keyless entry, dynamic Stability Control, hill launch assist and power sliding, the Mazda3 Hatchback is built to raise expectations from first sight, stru!
The interior is warmly built with an array of soft touch materials and leather seats. There’s two USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity via the iPad style touchscreen on the centre of the dashboard.
On the exterior, in addition to revised plastic front and rear, and new 16” and 17” rims, the suspension and steering have been tightened up and the instrument panel has been updated to reduce eye movement.
It is controlled via a centre switch, much like its competitors.
As customary for all latest Mazda brands fitted with SkyActiv Techno, Mazda3 hatchback defies convention by delivering a no compromise combination of exhilarating driving experience and handling while still achieving leading fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures.
Albeit, the Mazda 2 (nominated for the Wesbank SAGMJ) has a boot or ‘back’ limitations- the Mazda 3 is the opposite. Frankly, speaking…
Yes, as we took the 2.0L automatic for a long drive to the hills, mountains and private game reserves in Pretoria as we headed to the annual 2016 Tshwane Open, the eye-catching ‘Kodo’- Soul of Motion came to the party.
The only snag was, as I attempted to accelerate at the hill, I struggled a bit but eventually made great strides.
Mazda 3 is available in both 1.6-litre and 2-litre petrol models, depending on your budget of course.
For this Zoom Zoom this means it increases power, torque, efficiency and fuel economy as well, as one of our lensmen Mdu Mphahlele alluded.
Its’ no wonder Mazda has been voted the CAR Magazine Company of the Year 2016!
The Individual specification tops the range with automatic dual-zone climate control, cruise control, interactive interior lighting and one-touch operation, amongst other features included.
Each Mazda 3 comes with a four-year or 120 000km warranty, a five-year or 90 000km service plan and three years’ roadside assistance.
Service intervals are 15 000km.
It retails for R232 900
Verdict:
1-10 (Performance) 5
1-10(Petrol) 7
