Thenew Mazda3 hatchback has been revealed at the Los Angeles Motor Show, see details below.

A new Mazda3 hatchback and its sedan counterpart has been shown at the Los Angeles Motor Show and draws inspiration from the striking Kai Concept which can only be a good thing because the new Mazda3 looks impressively stylish. The Mazda3 is an important model for the brand and since its launch in 2003, over 6 million units have found homes around the world.

The new Mazda3 is built on Mazda's Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture and while the newMazda3 is now longer than before and is said to offer an enhanced ride with less in-cabin noise. the big news is that it's powered by a new Skyactiv-X engine with a Spark-Controlled Compression Ignition, but Mazda has yet to reveal specific details for this engine. There will also be updated versions of the current 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5-litre engines (market dependent).The new engine is expected to be up to 20-30% more efficient and will offer more torque than Mazda's current petrol engine offering and the new Mazda3 will be the first model fitted with this new engine in 2019. A 1.8-litre diesel engine will also be offered in select markets along with a choice of either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

A clean and uncluttered design is a major highlight inside the new Mazda3.

As for the interior, Mazda has adopted a "less is more" approach to the design with a particular emphasis on simplicity and focus on the task of driving. A new, wider 8.8-inch infotainment system is fitted and is controlled using the commander control in the centre console. A quality sound system anda head-up display are also fitted.

New safety features include thelatest Driver Monitoring system, Front Cross Traffic Alert and the Cruising & Traffic Support system which will help the driver in congested traffic situations by assisting with acceleration, braking and steering.

The newMazda3 is expected to reach South Africa in the second half of 2019. We will keep you updated as soon and local specification and pricing become available.

Buy a new or used Mazda on Cars.co.za

Related Content

2018/19 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank; Finalists

Comparative Review: Mazda CX-5 2.2DE AWD Akera vs Hyundai Tucson 2.0CRDi Elite [with Video]

Mazda CX-5 vs 2017 Hyundai Tucson (2017) Comparative Video Review

Mazda MX-5 RF Automatic (2017) Quick Review

Mazda MX-5 (2015) Review

Mazda BT-50 Double Cab 3.2 4×4 SLE Auto (2017) Review

Mazda2 1.5 Individual Plus Automatic (2017) Quick Review