The Mazda CX-5 evolves Mazda's hallmark fun-to-drive character and will be progressively introduced to global markets from early 2012. Developed around the full range of SKYACTIV Technology — including all-new Mazda gasoline and diesel engines, manual and automatic transmissions, body and chassis — the Mazda CX-5 delivers precise response and a high-quality ride matched with outstanding environmental and safety performance.
The engine line-up for the European specification CX-5 will include Mazda's SKYACTIV-G 2.0 gasoline engine and SKYACTIV-D 2.2 diesel engine available in Standard Power and High Power versions. Each engine has a record-breaking compression ratio of 14:1 for ideal efficiency. Mazda focused on achieving exceptional environmental performance for a compact SUV and targeted CO2 emissions of less than 120g/km for the SKYACTIV-D 2.2 engine model.
The Mazda CX-5 is also the first production model to showcase Mazda's new design theme, 'KODO - Soul of Motion', which was previewed with the Mazda Shinari and Mazda Minagi concept cars. Unique themes of KODO design include a prominent new front view with a bolder family face and dynamic styling that conveys a strong sense of vitality and agility.
"SKYACTIV is not just an engine; it is the next generation of advanced vehicle performance and efficiency," said Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). "SKYACTIV embodies Mazda's philosophy of engineering only vehicles that are fun to drive, satisfying to own and environmentally responsible; and there is no better vehicle to start with than the Mazda 3, one of the most exciting sport compact cars on the road."
Redesigned for the 2010 model year, the refreshed 2012 Mazda 3 is Mazda's first application of SKYACTIV technologies in North America, receiving an all-new SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine as well as the all-new SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission and all-new SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission. It also features improved sporty driving dynamics, responsive handling and a comfortable cabin space. The exterior design also has been refined to express a bolder stance, alongside new interior appointments creating additional functionality without sacrificing the touch-and-feel quality. Additional safety features complete the package.
Mazda 3, SKYACTIV Reach New Heights
In addition to the Mazda 3's current MZR 2.0-liter dual-overhead-cam 16-valve four-cylinder engine is the all-new high-efficiency direct-injection SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine. Mated to a standard SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission or optional SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, SKYACTIV will be available in either the sedan or hatchback models. The MZR 2.0-liter engine will continue to be available with the current five-speed manual as standard equipment. MZR 2.0-liter-equipped models also will be available with the current five-speed automatic as an option.
Approximately 4.4 pounds lighter than the current MZR 2.0-liter engine, the SKYACTIV 2.0-liter adopts multi-hole injectors to enhance fuel spray characteristics, along with specially developed piston cavity shapes that ensure a shorter combustion time and suppresses the impact on power and torque from engine knocking. Pumping loss is also decreased by employing dual sequential valve timing (S-VT).
The 2012 Mazda 3 achieves a high compression ratio of 12.0:1 and delivers 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 148 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm. (The PZEV version of this engine sold in California and other states produces 154 hp at 6,000 rpm and 148 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm).
Compared to the current Mazda 3 MZR 2.0-liter engine, the maximum power of the SKYACTIV-equipped 2012 Mazda 3 is increased by approximately five percent (from 148 horsepower at 6,500 rpm) and torque is increased by approximately 10 percent (from 135 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm). With improved torque, coupled with a drive control system that utilizes coordinated controls of the engine and transmission, Mazda 3s with SKYACTIV technology excel in dynamic response, further maintaining the Zoom-Zoom idea of oneness between the car and driver.
Fuel economy also gets a boost from the combination of a SKYACTIV engine and transmissions. When equipped with the SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine and optional SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, the 2012 Mazda 3 sedan will achieve an EPA rating of 40 mpg on the highway, an approximately 21-percent improvement over the current MZR 2.0-liter engine equipped with the optional five-speed automatic transmission. With a fuel tank capacity of 14.5 gallons, the 2012 Mazda 3 sedan with SKYACTIV has the potential of a 540-mile range, with still a gallon of fuel remaining. City mpg for the sedan version also improves by 17 percent to 28 mpg. When equipped with the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission, the sedan is rated with an estimated fuel economy of 27 city/39 highway.
The Mazda 3 sedan with the MZR 2.0-liter has an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 city/33 highway with the standard five-speed manual transmission and 24 city/33 highway with the optional five-speed automatic transmission.
Also, previously only available with the MZR 2.5-liter engine, the Mazda 3 five-door hatchback model will now be offered in the U.S. with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine. This Mazda 3 hatchback is estimated to deliver 27 city/38 highway (SKYACTIV-MT) and 28 city/38 highway (SKYACTIV-Drive AT). The slightly lower highway estimates can be attributed to different aerodynamics and the higher weight ratio between the sedan and hatchback. However, the hatchback's driving range remains impressive with more than 500 miles of driving on the same sized tank as the sedan. The MZR 2.0-liter engine will not be available in the hatchback model.
The higher fuel economy of the 2012 Mazda 3 equipped with SKYACTIV is a direct result of combining all the best features of the technology in today's transmissions. For SKYACTIV-Drive, the key advantages of a conventional automatic transmission, Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) were integrated. In addition, a torque converter with a lock-up clutch was developed to ensure minimal decrease in fuel economy and an increase in direct drive feel.
For SKYACTIV-MT, the goal was to achieve a shift feel that is sporty, brisk and responds to the driver. To accomplish this, not only was the shift-lever stroke shortened by about 10 percent compared to the current six-speed manual (available only in models equipped with the MZR 2.5-liter engine or MZR 2.3-liter Direct-Injection Spark Ignition turbo engine) but other technologies were applied as well: a down type system, lock ball type synchronizer, shift load canceller, slide ball bearing and locating 2nd and 3rd gears on a common shaft. By reconfiguring the current six-speed manual transmission, its weight was reduced by approximately 4.4 pounds due to the need for fewer components, while creating a quicker and crisper shift feel. Call it a little "MX-5 Miata-ness" in the Mazda 3.
Also available on the 2012 Mazda 3 is the highly-acclaimed Mazda MZR 2.5-liter engine. Alongside the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter, the MZR 2.5 is a technology powerhouse as well. It offers an aluminum block with cylinder-bore liners made of a steel-molybdenum alloy offering strength and stiffness generally not seen in large-displacement four-cylinder engines. A forged-steel crankshaft provides strength at high revs, but rigidity to ensure low NVH characteristics. Additionally, twin balance shafts located in the oil sump cancel second-order noise and vibration. The deep-skirt block is engineered for extra stiffness and main-bearing caps are integral with a ladder-type lower-block reinforcement. To minimize the noise and vibration typically found on larger displacement four-cylinder engines, the damper at the forward end of the crankshaft is equipped with two tuned masses. At the output end, a flexible flywheel also curbs NVH.
Fuel is delivered to the intake ports by an electronically controlled sequential injection system. Ignition coils are modular units positioned directly above the spark plugs. Shim-less bucket tappets require no maintenance. Lightweight pistons are coated with a special anti-friction compound and fitted with low-tension rings for improved gas mileage. Sintered powder-metal connecting rods and lighter full-floating wrist pins minimize the reciprocating weight.
Providing 167 hp at 6,000 rpm and 168 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, the MZR 2.5-liter engine is available with a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed electronically-controlled automatic with manual shift control. (The PZEV version of this engine sold in California and other states produces 165 hp at 6,000 rpm and 167 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm). The MZR 2.5-liter engine achieves EPA figures of 20 city and 28 highway with a manual transmission and 22 city and 29 highway with the automatic.
Distinctively Dynamic
The Mazda 3 has earned a solid reputation for its sporty and exciting handling that delivers an equally pleasurable driving feel which emphasizes consistency between the driver's expectations and the car's response. Inheriting this pedigree, the refreshed 2012 Mazda 3 not only improves upon this sense of oneness between driver and vehicle, but also offers a comfortable driving experience that all passengers can feel and enjoy in various driving scenarios.
Referred to as Toitsukan, this linear and consistent feel is more specifically about establishing smooth transitions between acceleration, lateral and deceleration G forces in response to the basic aspects of driving, turning and stopping. This idea is not simply about delivering sharp response to accelerator and steering operations for a sporty ride, but instead delivering a consistent linear feeling of the car's every response to control operations of the driver. Toitsukan extends to making driving pleasurable and instilling drivers with the sensation of excitement and control while at the same time offering passengers a comfortable ride created by smooth and stable car movement.
Concentrated efforts were made to ensure this Toitsukan is achieved throughout the car's features, which also resulted in a stronger body, include the adoption of the Electro-Hydraulic Power Assist Steering (EHPAS) system and optimized tuning of the front and rear dampers. Mazda's EHPAS system employs a new setting for pump flow characteristics that enables easier handling at slow speeds while also achieving more positive feedback and a better feeling for the road at mid-range through to high speeds. The overall result when compared to the current model is lighter, more nimble steering feel.
Put simply: turn the wheel a little, get a little change of direction; turn the wheel a lot, get a lot of change of direction. It seems so easy, but so few manufacturers seem to be able to achieve this level of intuition.
The body of the 2012 Mazda 3 also has been further reinforced for greater rigidity, improving upon the current model's already stellar agility and handling stability. This was partly achieved by increasing the number of spot welds used to join the suspension crossmembers (to which the front and rear suspensions are mounted) to the reinforced body areas. Use of stronger materials for reinforcements made it possible to more effectively disperse input from the suspension crossmember mounts to the body, thereby greatly improving overall body rigidity. In addition, the two reinforcement bars located under the center of the floor panel of the current Mazda 3 were replaced by a single new brace that is both stronger and more rigid. Employing this sheet of reinforcing material suppresses fore-aft body deformation. This update applies only to models equipped with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter or MZR 2.5-liter engines.
Additionally, models powered by SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engines are equipped with a drive control system that controls torque generation to maintain a harmonious balance between engine output and the gears of the transmission. Programmed in such a way to determine how much acceleration is called for in relation to the amount of acceleration pedal action, the system ensures the right amount of torque generated matches the acceleration demands. This instills in the driver a sense of confidence that the vehicle will respond faithfully and predictably. A driver's desired speed can be reached without the need of a heavy foot on the accelerator, thus contributing to less waste of fuel.
Engaging, Efficient Exterior
This mid-generation evolution of the Mazda 3 also extends to its exterior design. The current model's rich expression and bold stance has been updated to deliver a well-toned look that conveys even higher quality and curb appeal. Increased aerodynamics and stylized features give the 2012 Mazda 3 a more sophisticated look, blending seamlessly with functionality.
The 2012 Mazda 3's exterior appearance ultimately features a more taut impression with a new front fascia and updated five-point grille opening for both sedan and hatchback styles. New design characteristics include more delicately sculpted forms around the openings on the outside edge of the front bumper and a rounded fog lamp shape (changed from the horizontally-wide version of the current model).
Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback models equipped with SKYACTIV-G gasoline engines will be further distinguished with exclusive elements, such as an all-new engine cover featuring a deep blue metallic paint finish with black sections along either side; headlamp units outfitted with a transparent blue ring around the center lens to emphasize the vehicle's distinctive character; and a badge featuring a "SKYACTIV" logo against a clear-blue background.
Aerodynamics plays heavily to a vehicle's carbon footprint. Improved aerodynamic performance yields greater fuel economy and further reduces CO2 emissions while also contributing to handling stability. With this in mind, the front bumper design was optimized, as were underbody parts, to more effectively streamline the flow of air traveling beneath the floor. The shape of the lower sections of the front bumper's sides were redesigned to protrude forward and the fins beneath were made larger. This adjustment effectively distributes the flow of air hitting the engine compartment and the front tire deflector, suppressing turbulence in cooling the engine as well as along the sides of the body.
Other aerodynamic aids that further streamline airflow throughout and around the vehicle include enlarging and flattening the engine cover (on models equipped with the SKYACTIV-G engine); increasing the floor under-covers by approximately 10 percent and eliminating vertical grooves for a smoother design; increasing the rigidity of the front tire deflectors to prevent deformation and establish a good balance between brake cooling, aerodynamic performance and handling stability; and an added clamshell silencer shaped to sit on angle with the road surface.
The devil truly is in the details, and Mazda's engineers didn't miss a single one. The end result is a 0.27 Cd for the sedan (SKYACTIV-equipped model only), an approximately seven-percent improvement over the 0.29 Cd of current models. The hatchback version has a 0.29 Cd (SKYACTIV-equipped model only), also an approximately seven-percent increase over the 0.31 Cd of current models.
The refreshed exterior look is completed with all-new 16- and 17-inch aluminum wheel designs. The 16-inch wheel (on all SKYACTIV models) now features 10 twisted-surface spokes, increased from the current model's seven-spoke design, and the 17-inch wheel (on 2.5-liter s models) is characterized by enlarged openings between each spoke, creating a look that adds to a lighter yet more dynamic feel. Designs for the 16-inch steel wheels and 18-inch aluminum wheels remain unchanged.
High Quality, Intuitive Interior
The interior design was no less re-imagined than the vehicle's exterior, and was developed with the end goals of a more inviting cabin and higher quality feel. Beginning with the instrument panel - the largest landscape within the cabin - black is now used throughout the center stack and shift gate to provide an even bolder look. Also, silver-colored, satin-polished details were added to areas frequently operated by consumers, such as the outer rings of the three climate-control dial switches and the audio control panel, as well as the ventilation louvers on the center panel. In addition to creating a feeling of higher refinement, the silver-on-black color scheme further accentuates the location of these common controls and switches, which increases legibility and lessens the amount of time drivers take their eyes off the road, consequently reducing operating errors.
The Multi Information Display (MID) and liquid crystal display (LCD) also received color adjustments, changing from the red text and graphics of the current model to an easier-to-read white. On the 2012 MAZDASPEED3, the silver touches also replace the current red-accented graphics and the silver decoration atop the shift knob has been removed. The entire shift knob on the MAZDASPEED3 is now leather-wrapped. The parking brake knob also is wrapped in genuine leather, establishing a unified coordination that lends the cockpit an even sportier air and gives the MAZDASPEED3 interior additional sophistication.
The sporty twin-meter design of the instrument cluster itself remains unchanged but is highlighted with new, continuous-lit white graphic meters, which provide better readability, even in bright daylight hours. Backlight colors also differ depending on the model: dynamic gray for standard and high trim levels and a red gradation for the MAZDASPEED3. SKYACTIV-equipped vehicles will feature a blue gradation backlight as well as white-graphic meter panels. Also offered will be a stylish shift knob adorned by satin-polish plating on the lower section and a silver ring-surrounded SKYACTIV-logoed plate on the upper part.
Proving that even on a mid-cycle refresh, engineers truly sweat the details, the amount of the shift knob head's forward projection on SKYACTIV-Drive equipped models has been increased by nearly 0.16 inches over the current model, resulting in a better grip feel and smoother shifts in both front-aft and left-right directions.
Improved visual designs also have found their way into the comfortable, snug seats and create a stronger impression of dimensionality with new three-dimensional fabric patterns. On the black seats of non-leather models, gray cross-threads have been added to enhance contrast and create a feeling of casual comfort. Dune-colored seats receive both bright and dark-colored cross-threads to create a calm, mature interior atmosphere. Higher trim levels (Touring and Grand Touring) receive a different three-dimensional seat fabric pattern to create a richer expression of quality on the black fabric.
Additional Safety Features
All Mazda 3 and MAZDASPEED3 models will continue to be equipped with a high level of standard safety features. An optional feature available for 2012 models is a new Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system. The BSM system aids drivers in avoiding accidents that often occur in tight-spaced situations, such as brushing up against another vehicle during lane changes and traffic merges. 24GHz radar sensors located at the rear of the vehicle aim to detect approaching vehicles within a range of 13 feet to the left or right, and within 26 feet from the rear. When a vehicle is detected entering the blind spot area, indicator lamps housed within the door mirrors will light. If a turn signal is activated while the indicators are lit, they flash and a buzzer serves as an additional warning. Also available as an option is an Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling bi-xenon headlamps. AFS provides a wider range of vision during cornering, increasing the driver's gaze point and visible distance, by taking into account both steering angle and vehicle speed to orient the headlamps to an angle.
All Mazda 3s, regardless of trim level or engine choice, will continue to feature Mazda's own highly rigid safety body structure, which incorporates crushable outer zones that absorb impact energy, and Mazda's Triple H construction, which applies H-shaped reinforcements to the floor, side frames and roof to suppress cabin deformation and minimize the likelihood of bodily injury during an impact. For 2012 models, the B-pillar reinforcement has been extended by more than seven inches and more high tensile steel was added to further increase body rigidity.
Standard advanced safety features include six airbags (advanced dual front, front-seat mounted and full-length side curtain) with improved double chamber side airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with a Traction Control System (TCS), front and rear stabilizer bars, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a "crushable" brake and accelerator pedal assembly and collapsible steering column, three-point safety belts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters as well as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH). On Mazda 3, safety is simply not an option.
When the very first Mazda 3 was launched in 2003 it was more than a continuation of Mazda's long compact history, it was a revelation. The new compact looked sportier than most compacts at the time and was exciting to drive. People took notice and Mazda 3 quickly led the way in a rebirth of the Mazda brand around the world, reaching the 1-million production mark sooner than any Mazda model before it. The current second-generation model followed in 2008 and introduced an aggressive front end design. It remains the company's most popular car with almost 3 million sold globally.
Europe is the car's second-largest market worldwide with total sales of 613,000 units, nearly 100,000 of these from the current model achieved in less than two years. With almost 60,000 units sold in 2010, the Mazda 3 is the best-selling vehicle for Mazda in Europe. Mazda 3 has accumulated 125 global accolades since originally launched, including several Car of the Year awards. The first-generation won 99 of these over a 5-year period, while the current model has already taken home 26 awards.
The current second-generation Mazda 3 has built a strong reputation as one of Europe's sportiest compacts. It comes in two body styles, each with its own distinct character: the smooth, sporty elegance of the four-door sedan, and the muscular strength of the five-door hatchback. For even sportier tastes there's the Mazda 3 MPS, which is one of the most powerful frontwheel drive compacts. Besides this strong emotional appeal, state-of-the-art technology and a long list of equipment make Mazda 3 frugal, fun-to-drive and easy to use. It has a powertrain line-up of five petrols (including two DISI direct injection petrol engines), three common-rail diesels, five and six-speed manual transmissions, and four and five-speed automatic transmissions. A long list of standard equipment and options - like a premium ten-speaker BOSE® stereo system and Bluetooth® MP3 capability - make the ride an enjoyable one. Park assist make city parking easier, and adaptive front xenon headlights, tyre-pressure monitoring, rear vehicle monitoring (according to grade/option) and ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) - along with standard front, side and curtain airbags- deliver superior safety
Design Refinement
When it comes to head-turning good looks, Mazda 3 is already one of the market's most appealing compact line-ups with an aggressive hatchback and a sporty yet elegant sedan. This was confirmed less than two years ago, when a poll of 200,000 AutoBild readers across Europe voted Mazda 3 Europe's best-looking compact. For the facelift version, designers focused on updates that would continue the car's emotional appeal. They redesigned the front end to be more aggressive and aerodynamic, and reduced rear bumper thickness. These changes give the exterior a well-toned muscular appearance that underscores the car's solid build quality. This focus was carried through to the inside as well, where new materials and colours enhance quality feel, while the optimized ergonomics make the Mazda 3 facelift easier to use.
EXTERIOR
The current Mazda 3 introduced a new front end that gave the car a unique sporty edge that is immediately recognizable as Zoom-Zoom. This continues with the Mazda 3 facelift. The friendly yet sporty front face with large 5-point grille is updated to create a richer and more stylish impression. The corners of the front bumper now have a larger fascia around the air inlets, new round fog lights embedded in their lower sections, and a lower front lip that protrudes outwards more than before. These changes not only give the Mazda 3 facelift a more aggressive and emotionally appealing look, they function to improve aerodynamic performance as well.
Hatchback Rear End Design - Less Means More
Changes were also made at the back of the Mazda 3 facelift five-door version. The rear bumper is not as thick as before (it protrudes 30 mm less than the outgoing sports-grade hatchback) and the reflectors are placed closer to side panels. As a result, the facelift hatchback looks even wider and more solidly built when seen from the back. The shortened rear bumper allows easier loading and unloading of the Hatchback's luggage compartment, and the overall length of the car has been reduced by 30 mm (compared to sports grade).
New Wheel Designs and Colours
The sporty silhouette of the Mazda 3 gets new 16 and 17-inch wheel designs with more spokes that are twisted slightly backwards to give a dynamic, lighter look even when the car is standing still. Customers can choose between 8 exterior colours: an all-new Autumn Bronze Mica to go along with Indigo Blue Mica, Velocity Red Mica, Crystal White Pearl, Arctic White, Aluminium Metallic, Graphite Mica and Black Mica.
Cockpit - Now Easier to Use
The insightful combination of design and functionality continues on the inside of the Mazda 3 facelift with updates intended to create a more stylish interior that is also functional and easier to use. The current Mazda 3 already delivers superior cockpit ergonomics with a driver-orientated sporty dashboard, great all-round view of the road, telescopic and height adjustable steering wheel, height and front-toaft seat adjustment, and a high-mount shift level backed by a centre console that allows easy shifting with a flick of the wrist.
Leaving this unchanged, designers focused on lowering the amount of eye-movement it takes to use the car's onboard systems from behind the wheel. To realize this, they replaced the previous silver of the lower section of the dashboard middle console with black colour, and ringed dials and controls that are used most by the driver in brighter satinpolish silver that's easier to see.
They also replaced the red graphics of the current model's multiinformation display and LCD (under the instrument panel hood) to a crisp white, which makes them easier to see as well. The twin-metre driver cluster is also optimized in the facelift model to be easier to read, especially during the day. The previous blackout meters are replaced by continuously lit white graphics. These graphics are placed on either a grey background colour (standard and high grade models) or a sporty red gradation for the Mazda 3 MPS.
Colours and Materials
The facelift interior now has leather park-brake handle for all models. Designers introduced new design patterns in the seat-centre that are of higher quality. Standard grades have a centre fabric in black or beige with a three-dimensional pattern using wavy cross-threads for a strong sense of quality. High grades also use this wavy pattern in black and beige, but with shiny threading that changes according to how the light hits it.
Optimised Ride Comfort and Handling Stability
The 2011 facelift carries forth the Mazda 3 reputation for agility and easy handling by introducing new features that improve ride quality and handling stability. The result is a facelift model that is even more fun and predictable to drive on a daily basis.
Toitsu-kan - a Higher Quality Driving Experience
Mazda 3 is a driver's car. For the facelift version, engineers optimized handling and ride comfort even further to deliver a higher quality driving experience. To achieve this, the pilot must experience a "consistent and linear feel" while driving. Engineers gave this composite attribute a name, Toitsu-kan, and applied it to steering, suspension and body characteristics, along with engines and transmissions.
It delivers smooth transitions between acceleration, lateral and deceleration G forces in response to the basic aspects of driving, turning and stopping for a more linear and consistent driving feel.
Updates to Body Shell, Suspension and Steering
A new single brace bar that is made of stronger and more rigid reinforcement material is added to the front of the body, instead of the current two reinforcing bars, which is better at suppressing foreaft deformation, it delivers not only more rigidity, but a more refined handling stability (except for MZR-CD 2.2-litre diesel version).
To increase ride comfort, changes were made to Mazda 3's front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension system, and its electric-hydraulic power assisted (EHPAS) system. Mazda 3's EHPAS system was updated with new pump-flow settings and stiffer wheels were introduced. When combined with the more rigid body and optimized dampers, these contribute to better steering feedback and road feel, especially at mid and high speeds.
Improved Aerodynamics
A major contributor to handling stability of the Mazda 3 facelift is its new, aerodynamically-optimized front bumper. Its lower side sections protrude further forward, and the fins beneath it are larger. This streamlines the air hitting the front of the vehicle more effectively and lowers turbulence where air enters the front of the engine compartment.
It also improves the effectiveness of the new front tyre deflectors and suppresses air swirling at the sides of the body. The updated front grille allows more gloss painting at the upper part of the grille (for high-grade) and less grille mesh is needed, which has the advantage of reducing the chance of mud or rocks entering the grille.
The front tyre deflectors are now 50 percent more rigid than before, which helps prevent deformation at high speeds. The floor undercover was also redesigned to contribute to better aerodynamics. It now covers 10 percent more area than before and the vertical grooves of the outgoing model are replaced in favour of a flatter surface. At the back, the undercover is curved and closer to the ground, which is better for controlling air-flow rearwards. How much these measures affect air-flow can be seen in the Mazda 3 facelift's improved coefficient of drag - for the sedan Cd is just 0.27 (0.28 for the current model) and 0.29 for the hatchback (0.30 for the current model). The Mazda 3 MPS coefficient of drag is unchanged at 0.32.
Taken together, these updates help the Mazda 3 facelift to respond perfectly to driver input, support Mazda's trademark one-with-the-car feel, improve handling stability at higher speeds, and make the ride even more comfortable.
Improved NVH
Also contributing to increased ride comfort is an improvement in NVH performance for the facelift. Pressure within the cabin increases as the body shell around the cabin flexes and moves, which amplifies interior noise. To lower this, engineers introduced a new B-frame beneath the floor that is 0.7 mm thicker than before and has a reinforced joining area with more spot welds, which helps lower cabin deformation, and there is increased floor damping material as well, which reduces road noise and makes the Mazda 3 facelift cabin even quieter.
Improved Fuel Efficiency and Lower Emissions
Over the past two years, the Mazda 3 line-up has been expanded by several new engines and derivatives bringing the total number of different powertrains to seven. For the Mazda 3 facelift, this outstanding portfolio is expanded to eight with the introduction of a new 1.6-litre petrol model with automatic transmission, and all but two engines have been enhanced to deliver better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
PETROL POWERTRAINS
Five petrol powertrains are offered for the Mazda 3 facelift, beginning with the MZR 2.0 DISI i-stop with six-speed manual transmission, which produces a sporty 110 kW/150 PS of power at 6,200 rpm and 191 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. This driving fun is combined with Mazda's stop/start system, i-stop, that shuts down the engine when the cars stops and saves fuel. For the Mazda 3 facelift, optimized engine tuning and improved aerodynamics have lowered fuel consumption by 0.1 litre to 6.7 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions from 159 to 157 g/km (combined).
The petrol line-up also has the high-performance MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo with a special-ratio six-speed manual transmission in the Mazda 3 MPS for sports purists. This engine is one of the most powerful front wheel-drive petrol in the world and produces 191 kW/260 PS of maximum power at 5,500 rpm, and 380 Nm of maximum torque at just 3,000 rpm. The engine uses 9.6 litres of petrol per 100 km, which is very acceptable for a high-performance car this exciting to drive.
Also onboard for the Mazda 3 facelift are three lively, petrol engines that are very popular with European customers. This includes the MZR 2.0 petrol with a five-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode for easy driving with an ideal mix of power and fuel economy. It produces 110 kW/150 PS at 6,500 rpm and 187 Nm of maximum torque at 4,000 rpm, while using 7.6 litres of fuel and producing 175 g/km of CO2 (combined).
The agile MZR 1.6 petrol with five-speed manual transmission is onboard for customers looking for driving fun combined with low consumption. It produces 77 kW/105 PS of maximum power at 6,000 rpm and 145 Nm of maximum torque at 4,000 rpm. With the improved aerodynamics of the Mazda 3 facelift design and a 5th gear raised from 0.820 to 0.775, this engines produces less CO2 than before (147 g/km, down from 149) and uses 6.4 litres of fuel per 100 km. It is now joined by a four-speed automatic transmission version (see box). The sedan with this powertrain uses 7.4 litres of fuel per 100 km while emitting a low 171 g/km of CO2 (combined). The hatchback model needs 7.6 litres of fuel per 100 km and produces 176 g/km of CO2.
New Mazda 3 1.6 Petrol Activematic Transmission
For the facelift, Mazda is expanding the line-up with a new MZR 1.6 petrol model with a four-speed automatic transmission called Activematic, which allows the convenience of driving in fully-automatic or manual mode. The automatic mode is comfortable yet sporty and includes slope control for uphill grades that prevents gear-hunt, and optimised downshift characteristics from fourth-to-second gear. Tuned especially for the 1.6-litre petrol engine, Activematic provides a linear, direct feeling of control with no compromises on spirited engine performance.
DIESEL POWERTRAINS
The diesel flagship model of the Mazda 3 facelift is the High Power 2.2 Turbo diesel that produces 136 kW/185 PS of maximum power at 3,500 rpm and massive torque of 400 Nm available between 1,800 and 3,000 rpm for high-performance driving fun, while using just 5.4 litres of fuel per 100 km, which is 3.6 percent less fuel than the current model. As a result, it also produces just 144 g/km of CO2, which is 3.4 percent lower than before.
The Standard Power 2.2 Turbo diesel produces 110 kW/150 PS of maximum output and 360 Nm of torque available as low as 1,800 rpm. It uses less fuel than the current engine, just 5.2 litres per 100 km, down 3.7 percent, while emitting only 139 g/km of CO2, which is 3.5 percent lower than the current engine.
Completing the Mazda 3 facelift diesel line-up is the MZ-CD 1.6 Turbo diesel with a six-speed manual transmission version. It delivers 85 kW/115 PS of maximum power and a robust 270 Nm of torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The low-friction engine with lightweight aluminium block offers very low fuel consumption and emissions combined with high levels of driving fun. It needs just 4.3 litres of fuel per 100 km, which is 2.3 percent less than before, and emits a low 115 g/km of CO2 (combined), which is 1.7 percent lower than the current engine thanks to decreased oil pump resistance.
Enjoying the Ride
The Mazda 3 facelift inherits equipment and safety technologies that make it easy to enjoy the ride. The list of equipment is long and now includes a new gear-shift indicator and an affordable navigation system to go along with state-of-the-art options to meet just about every need.
EQUIPMENT
Mazda 3 facelift's standard equipment package is very generous and includes electric side mirrors, tilt and telescope steering wheel adjustment, CD player with MP3 capability and an AUX jack for hooking up an MP3 player and playing it using the factory-delivered stereo system. Depending on grade and market, leather seats with 3 memory functions plus 2 integrated in the keyless entry and start system transmitter, a premium 10-speaker Bose® sound system developed especially for the Mazda 3, Bluetooth® for playing your MP3 player wirelessly or for hands-free telephoning, iPod® and iPhone® and MP3 CD capability are also available. There is also dual-zone heating/air conditioning, a keyless entry and start system with button ignition, a parking sensor system, auto-dimming mirror, a heated windshield and a rain/light sensor system available (according to market/grade) - just to mention a few.
The new Mazda 3 is loaded with equipment that makes the trip fun and easy. It can be equipped, for instance, with an affordable, integrated navigation system as an option that delivers 99 percent coverage of Europe's major markets (except for MPS and models with Bose® sound system). It has 4 GB memory and 18 languages, a large 14.7 cm / 5.8 inch touch screen monitor, and a hands-free Bluetooth® telephone and audio connection with external microphone. This equipment package also comes with an integrated CD player + radio that includes iPod®, iPhone® (via optional connector cable) and MP3 CD capability, and steering-wheel controls. Also onboard for the first time with Mazda 3 facelift is a new gear-shift indicator (for the manual transmission MZR 1.6, MZR 2.0 DISI i-stop petrols, and all diesel engines). This system has been developed to optimize driver shift behaviour to be smoother and more fuel-efficient in all driving situations. An onboard computer calculates the amount of torque needed according to the road environment and driver operations, then displays the ideal gear the driver should shift into next, which optimizes fuel-efficiency and driving performance.
SAFETY
The current Mazda 3 is one of Europe's safest compacts, having scored a maximum of 5 stars on its EURO-NCAP crash test in November 2009. For the Mazda 3 facelift, this package of cutting-edge technologies has been kept and enhanced even further.
Active Safety
Mazda 3 facelift's standard safety package includes ABS, EBD, brake assist, traction control system (TCS) and DSC. An emergency stop signal (ESS) is also standard that warns following vehicles with rapidly flashing hazard lights when the driver suddenly brakes in an emergency situation, and then continues to flash normally after the car comes to a stop. Depending on grade and market, customers can enhance this even further by ordering an adaptive front lighting system with Bixenon headlamps that pivots automatically to illuminate the corner or curve, and a rear vehicle monitoring system that detects a vehicle approaching from the right or left rear or driving in the blind spot area and warns the driver (see box). A further enhancement to the Mazda 3 facelift safety is Mazda's Brake Override System, which was originally introduced with the Mazda 5 in 2010. This system always prioritizes the brake pedal over the accelerator pedal should both be engaged simultaneously, allowing the vehicle to be brought to a safe stop.
Passive Safety
Mazda 3 facelift takes as its basis a strong body shell created using Mazda Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System featuring high-strength steel reinforcements and inners at the A-pillar, the hinge pillar and the side sills. The joint between the hinge pillars and A-pillar inner panels has additional spot-welding for extra strong seams. The door impact beams have special reinforcements at their front sections to make them especially good at resisting crash force during a side impact. At the back, the rear side frames are made of tailored-blank high-tensile steel, and have a thicker and straighter crossbeam. Its structure is designed to dissipate collision energy to the front and away from the fuel tank.
Standard on the inside are front, side and curtain airbags, active front head restraints that protect the neck against whiplash, and double pretensioner seatbelts with digressive load-limiter retractors (LLR) that help reduce shock to the passenger's chest. Protecting the driver is a crushable brake pedal, crushable pads below the heel area, and an energy-absorbing steering column.
The Mazda 3 facelift inherits good pedestrian safety features as well. Its bonnet is made with an energy-absorbing structure at the cowl and fender bracket areas, to help reduce injury when struck. Energyabsorbing foam is used in the bumper beams and energy-absorbing plastic in the bumper's lower section