The all-new Mazda3 has been leaked online by the Czech website Autoforum, with the photo gallery also containing technical data charts of the new Japanese compact car.
As Carscoop’s artist Josh Byrnes predicted, the Mazda3 builds on the Kodo design theme from the Mazda6, with the two cars sharing many design elements such as the flowing curved lines above the front and rear fenders, the harmonious combination between the grille and the sharp headlights and the plunged bonnet.
On the inside, the Mazda3 features an all-new minimalistic dashboard that reminds a little of the one from the Audi A3, due to the layout and the pop-up touchscreen. It looks like an ergonomic dashboard, with the controls being clearly delimitated.
The car is slightly wider than the previous generation, with the width being of 1,765 mm (+10mm), while it is 20mm lower (1,450 mm). The length stays roughly the same, at 4,465 mm. It also has a larger wheelbase by 60 mm (2,700 mm), which benefits especially the rear passengers. Boot volume is 350 liters (+10 liters than before), 30 liters smaller than the C segment’s reference, the VW Golf hatchback.
At least at launch and in Europe, the Mazda3 will be available with three gasoline engines and one diesel unit, all using the Skyactiv technology. The entry-level gasoline engine is a 100PS 1.5-liter developing 150 Nm of torque, followed by a 120PS 2.0-liter with 210 Nm of torque and a 165PS 2.0-liter with 210 Nm of torque. There’s also a 150PS 2.2-liter diesel unit developing 380 Nm of torque.
We’re expecting official details later in the day, so stay tuned for more coverage.
By Dan Mihalascu
Update: Watermark-free, high-resolution pictures have been added below
PHOTO GALLERY
