Other than that, Mazda hasn't altered the size or general makeup of the Mazda3 very much, the focus being on implementing improvements throughout the body structure, power train, and chassis that would be immediately apparent to the driver and occupants.

As before, the new Mazda3 includes both the 4-door sedan and the 5-door hatchback.

The new model employs a variety of equipment designed to make driving more comfortable and convenient. One example is the Multi Information Display (MID) mounted at the top centre of the instrument panel. It provides the driver with a wealth of essential driving and support information.

The suspension system carries over the same basic layout as the first-generation Mazda3, with MacPherson struts in the front and multi-link suspension in the rear. But, in developing the new Mazda3, Mazda aimed to ensure even nimbler response to steering wheel operation, and also to improve roll control and provide a flatter ride by strengthening suspension damping.

The MZR 1.6 engine for the new Mazda3 is a 1.6-litre inline 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine that produces maximum torque of 145Nm at 4 000rpm and maximum output of 77kW at 6 000rpm.

The MZR 2.0 engine is a 2.0-litre inline 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine that produces maximum torque of 187Nm at 4 000rpm and maximum output of 110kW at 6 500rpm.

The MZR 2.5 engine is a 2.5-litre inline 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine that produces maximum torque of 227Nm at 4 000rpm and maximum output of 122kW at 6 000rpm is new to the range.

The MZR 1.6 engine is paired with a 5-speed transmission carried over from the first-generation Mazda3, but tuned to optimize driving performance and fuel economy on the new Mazda3. The MZR 2.0 and the 2.5 models are paired to a 6-speed manual transmission that replaces the 5-speed box found in previous generation models.

A variety of measures were implemented to improve the fuel economy and reduce the CO2 emissions of the new Mazda3. For example, the design team engineered the Mazda3 to demonstrate outstanding aerodynamic performance, equipped it with Mazda's Electro-Hydraulic Power Assist Steering system (EHPAS), which contributes to lower fuel consumption, reduced its weight wherever possible, and improved power train efficiency.

The all-new Mazda3 line-up consists of nine models compared to the previous generation line-up that consisted of 14 models. The smaller model range has allowed Mazda to package the content in such a way as to offer better value for money.

The 1.6 original is the entry level model derivative and standard features include manual air-conditioning, a single disc CD player with MP3 capability, power windows with one-touch operation for driver and keyless entry. The cabin features a height adjustable driver seat as well as various storage areas.

Read page two for for more details of different models

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