It’s only been a few years since Mazda rolled out the current, third-generation Mazda3, but it’s already time for a bit of a refresh. And that’s just what we have here.

The 2017 Mazda3 benefits from updated styling and equipment inside and out. You’d likely have to place the new model side-by-side with the outgoing one to notice the stylistic changes, but they include a bolder grille, new lighting, and (on the five-door hatchback version) a redesigned rear bumper.

Inside you’ll find a redesigned (and optionally heated) steering wheel, electronic parking brake, more storage, and available perforated leather in black or almond. The safety systems have been reworked as well to include available Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring and Traffic Sign Recognition as well as a new Active Driving Display.

The updated Mazda3 has also been engineered to be quieter with improved damping for noise, vibration and harshness. The bigger equipment upgrade, however, is the inclusion of Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control system that coordinated the throttle, steering and suspension to improve chassis control.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but the 2017 Mazda3 is slated to reach dealers already next month, when it will once again be available in both four-door sedan and five-door hatchback bodystyles.

PHOTOS