Mazda 3

All-new 323 successor



In just 18 months Mazda has introduced us to the new 6, the new 2 and more recently, the new RX-8. Now after it's global unveiling at last month's Frankfurt Motor Show it's Australia's turn to see the all-new Mazda 3. Or as Mazda likes to say..... Mazda3, which makes it look like a typo!

The new 3 will be available in, wait for it..... 3 versions. These will be Neo, Maxx and the sporty SP23 variants, each available as sedan or hatchback. The two body styles share no common body panels.

The new model is bigger in every dimension than the 323.

Neo and Maxx offer 104 kilowatts of power, whilst the SP23 has 115 kW. Both run on regular unleaded fuel. Although the power outputs can be boosted by using premium unleaded fuel.

Safety is a major consideration with the new 3..... standard equipment includes dual stage inflation airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters.

The 3 will be available, locally, from January 2004.




The new Mazda 3 Maxx hatchback


The new Mazda 3 SP23 sedan

Pricing is expected to be from $22,500, including standard air conditioning.

Stephen Walker
31st October, 2003


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