Second-generation Mazda 3 is finally here

The saying "It's better late than never" has never been more apt than today when Mazda Philippines launched the second-generation Mazda 3, three years after it first went on sale in the global market in 2009.

"We are proud to launch the much-anticipated all-new Mazda 3 to our loyal customers in the Philippines," said Janinna Mendoza, marketing director for Mazda Philippines. "We are confident that the all-new 3 will become a popular choice for those looking for a high-quality compact car in the market today."

The new 3's design is an evolution of its predecessor, giving it a look "that conveys an air of even higher quality." A new front fascia with a smaller grille opening gives this car an enhanced sense of presence. This is emphasized even further by the protrusion on the front bumper's lower corners to improve the car's aerodynamic performance. Step around to the back and the dynamic look continues with the rear bumper for both sedan and hatchback models, though the latter gives an added impression of wideness and solidness while also contributing to easier loading and unloading.

Aerodynamic drag has also been greatly reduced in the Mazda 3. Its front bumper beam has been subtly reshaped to diminish air turbulence that passes through the grille, for instance, while several flaps located in the radiator shroud automatically open at speed to allow some air to bypass the cooling fan.

The Mazda 3's interior is enhanced by changes to the coloring of the switches and controls, particularly the silver-colored parts and trim that indicate the locations of the frequently used ones. According to Mazda, this minimizes the amount of eye movement required to operate the controls "for greater safety and reduced fatigue, while also supporting smooth and assured operation." In addition, the silver touches blend with the black-keyed instrument panel, giving the interior a refined and highly mature atmosphere. Capping off the interior's design are the sporty twin-meter gauges and their white illuminated readout which provides excellent legibility, even in daytime.

The Mazda 3 is available with two different powerplants: a 1.6-liter engine that puts out 103hp and 144Nm of torque, and a 2.0-liter mill that produces 145hp and 182Nm of twist.

The new compact sedan is now available at Mazda dealerships nationwide, with the 1.6-liter V sedan going for P999,000, the 1.6-liter V hatchback at P 1.099 million, and the range-topping 2.0-liter R sedan at P1.299 million.