The new Mazda3 arrives fully reengineered and completely redesigned.

"We were determined to advance the Zoom-Zoom driving experience to new heights because that unique feeling lies at the very heart of Mazda," said Mazda3 Program Manager Yoshiyuki Maeda at the car's launch at the Los Angeles Motor Show.

"The development process began with careful study and identification of what features and performance qualities would be needed. That initial phase ended with my conclusion that every driving characteristic was eligible for improvement to reach our Zoom-Zoom goals. Mazda engineering and R&D departments in Japan, Europe, and the US all contributed to the Mazda3's renewal effort and the development of the company's new world car."

Chief designer Kunihiko Kurisu's mission was to remain faithful to the car's existing visual identity while evolving its appearance with bolder design strokes. So up front, there's a move towards a more unified Mazda global "family face", with the reinforced frontal identity integrating the lower air intake with a more emphatic and instantly recognizable five-point grille.

To stress power and dynamism, major design elements focus on or flow toward the vehicle's central axis. At the front, fascia lines converge on the centre-point at the bottom of the grille. At the rear, the decklid's surface has a distinctive centre crease, while the compact cabin, high deck surfaces, and flowing C-pillar features were inspired by the classic coupe profile, as seen on the 2009 Mazda6.

Inside, the car offers a "sporty yet highly refined" cabin. The dash sweeps dramatically from its centre to the cabin's sidewalls. The large gauge cluster and centre stack are positioned to tightly link the driver's limbs and senses to the car's instruments and controls.

A "Multi-Information Display" is positioned high on the centre portion of the instrument panel featuring navigation, audio, and trip computer information.

Front seat cushions have been extended by nearly an inch compared to the outgoing car in order to provide improved thigh support. Backrests are 1.4-inches taller and recontoured for improved driving posture. For the higher grade models, the upper side bolsters have been canted inward for heightened torso restraint during aggressive cornering.

A three-position memory function has been added to cars equipped with power seats and upon approach to the car, the left-front seat automatically adjusts to the settings chosen by up to three different drivers by recognising the code of the key fob.

An interactive lighting system enhances the cabin's ambience. Upon entry, illumination rises in intensity in a programmed manner. Occupants are welcomed by foot-well and door-handle lamps. Next, instrument cluster, centre stack, audio and climate controls brighten. When a driver or front seat occupant touches an audio or AC switch, a change in illumination acknowledges that the command has been received.

Dual-zone automatic air conditioning is an available option. Other special features that distinguish this car from mundane compact sedans are: a Bose 10-speaker premium surround sound system, connectivity for cell phones and portable media players, a dock for iPods, and Sirius satellite radio. An advanced keyless entry system includes push-button engine starting. The Mazda3 options list also includes rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, and heated seats.

In the US, the car is powered by a 2.0-litre four-in-line engine delivering 110kW at 6500rpm and 183Nm of torque at 4500rpm.

The new MZR 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine is borrowed from the larger all-new 2009 Mazda6 which ups output to 125kW at 6000rpm and 227Nm of torque at 4000rpm.

Mazda felt there was no need to reinvent the chassis design so subtle and tuning changes were the order of the day.

On the safety front electro-hydraulic power steering, a highly agile suspension system, and powerful disc brakes are standard features. ABS, Dynamic Stability Control, and traction control are offered as optional equipment. Also, a new Adaptive Front Lighting System with self-levelling bi-xenon headlamps has been added.

To supplement the four-door sedan introduced at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, a five-door hatchback model will arrive later.