All-new Mazda 3 features optional AWD and new design

[LegendaryElite]

Press info
https://insidemazda.mazdausa.com/pr...2018-los-angeles-auto-show-press-information/

Previews by Car and Driver
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/2019-mazda-3-sedan-hatchback-photos-info
Notable changes:

New engine (Skyactiv-X engine scheduled to arrive at the end of 2019 though)
New chassis (longer and lower)
Optional AWD
Torsional beam (independent multilink before)
Active safety feature still optional
8.8 inch display, possible with Android Auto onboard due to the recent deal with Google

What do you guys think about this?
AWD is a welcomed surprise, but the safety feature should have been standard.
All the American brands are giving up on the compact segment (Ford and GM), so I really hope Mazda and Toyota can do more to push Honda to improve.

Edit: Put some pictures here to save you guys a click.

 

[xcoreflyup]

Torsional beam rear suspension is a huge killer for me. If you already gone through all the trouble creating the skyactivX, why use Torsional beam?

Side note, I think honda pushed Toyota to improve already, hence the all new styling on the new Camry. Honda started it with the 19 inches wheels sport package on the Accord. Even The New Nissan Altima comes with 19 inches wheels now

 

[REBELXSi]

Torsional beam rear suspension is a huge killer for me. If you already gone through all the trouble creating the skyactivX, why use Torsional beam?

Allows for more room but also increases NVH.

 

[dmitri]

I really hope they bring the Mazdaspeed 3 back...

 

[jred721]

I really hope they bring the Mazdaspeed 3 back...

If they put in thaf 2.5L turbo with AWD and maybe tune it to the neighborhood of 300 HP, CTR is going to really have its work cut out for it tbh. Mazdas are known already to handle like sports cars and are made for the "enthusiast", this will only be amplified if they decide to give the engine some balls.

 

[Dis4Damion]

Press info
https://insidemazda.mazdausa.com/pr...2018-los-angeles-auto-show-press-information/

Previews by Car and Driver
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/2019-mazda-3-sedan-hatchback-photos-info
Notable changes:

New engine (Skyactiv-X engine scheduled to arrive at the end of 2019 though)
New chassis (longer and lower)
Optional AWD
Torsional beam (independent multilink before)
Active safety feature still optional
8.8 inch display, possible with Android Auto onboard due to the recent deal with Google

What do you guys think about this?
AWD is a welcomed surprise, but the safety feature should have been standard.
All the American brands are giving up on the compact segment (Ford and GM), so I really hope Mazda and Toyota can do more to push Honda to improve.

Since this is a Honda Civic focused forum, I'll clarify that I'm in no way biased - but I am disappointed with the new Mazda 3. It looks just like the previous generation but with updated tech and a new powertrain. The sedan is boring to look at and the C pillar on the hatch really bugs me haha.

I do like the AWD, the high quality of the interior and the powertrains seem promising.

 

[xaviersayys]

I like the new tail light design, and I still personally think Mazda still has one of the best interiors for this segment. I actually like the design, albeit is very similar to the outgoing model. It looks like they even used the same wheels. Kind of a let down. I think the hatch looks kinda odd, very frumpy.

 

[IDriveACivic]

AWD is confirmed in Canada. Depending on the pricing, it might just kill the Subaru Impreza.

I find that current Mazda interiors look nice, but appearance is only skin deep (very apparent once you sit in one and drive). Maybe the redesign will change things.

 

[IDriveACivic]

I don't think it will. The Impreza comes with a ton of features of under $28k, my Sport at least.

Plus, Subaru is scheduled to refresh it for 2020, hopefully adding Forester power.

*SkyActivX > Forester power

Subaru still holds a more competent AWD and a loyal crowd in the Pacific Northwest


*Assuming predictions are true: 190 HP and a 20 - 25% improvement to fuel economy over a NA engine (translates to at least 40 MPG).

 

[Matthyahuw]

I miss my Mazda 3!
had an 05, put a short shifter on it first thing, then did more & more!
the last gen was just meh, this is a bit better...

 

[mechanical42]

Im scared about that first gen SkyActiv-X engine. Don't want to have to wait inline for recalls and warranty claims. And also the longevity of it.

 

[jred721]

Mazda 3 hatch looks like its trying to play off of the Alfa Romeo Brera with a giant C-Pillar.

 

[IDriveACivic]

The current gen has bad enough rear visibility. Better get BSM for the 2019 model

 

[CVTsport18]

Not a fan of the new hatch design.

 

[REBELXSi]

If they put in thaf 2.5L turbo with AWD and maybe tune it to the neighborhood of 300 HP, CTR is going to really have its work cut out for it tbh. Mazdas are known already to handle like sports cars and are made for the "enthusiast", this will only be amplified if they decide to give the engine some balls.

The MS3 had balls and they were so big it didn't put down power well.

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