Mazda’s C-segment hatchback/sedan comes with a petrol engine and mild hybrid.
The C-segment hatchback and sedan comes with a 2.0-litre petrol engine and mild hybrid.
hatch seems familiar … Mazda is using the ongoing Los Angeles auto show to host the world premiere of its all-new 3 in both hatchback and sedan forms.
The hatch model in particular was first previewed by last year’s Kai concept car, featuring a chunky C-pillar design.
The four-door sedan has also been revealed alongside its five-door sibling and has a markedly elegant profile.
Such a two-pronged attack on the Thai compact car scene is also employed by the Honda Civic, MG 6 and Nissan Pulsar/Sylphy.
The latest generation of Mazda’s crucial C-segment contender has been developed with a brand-new platform and body work, though no dimensions have been revealed yet.
The interior has also been revamped with the same mission of delivering a driver-oriented feel.
Does it get that much-touted Skyactiv-X engine?
Yes, it does. Much was said about Skyactiv-X at its introduction in Japan in late 2017, as well as during a media drive with prototypes in Europe earlier this year.
As a recap, Skyactiv-X features a spark-ignition-controlled system to improve low-end response and bring fuel efficiency close to even with diesel counterparts. It has a power rating of some 180hp, while economy is said to be 20-30% better than ever.
There’s also a 24V mild hybrid in which an electric motor assists the engine in a bid to make power delivery as linear as possible.
Although there will be other engine options for the 3, this particular drivetrain should be the sole one for Thailand, where Mazda uses just one motor to cover the 850,000- to 1.1-million-baht price range.
When can I get one?
Sources at Mazda say the 3 should be launched in Thailand just after mid2019. The Japanese car maker recently won Board of Investment approval to make HEVs in the country, meaning the 3 would be the first model to receive hybrid tech.
Also due on Thai forecourts at that time is the all-new Corolla (currently only available as a sedan), which is set to become the third Toyota after the Camry and C-HR to be electrified. Unlike the Mazda 3, the Corolla is being geared with full hybrid tech.