These are the very first spy
shots of the upcoming 2019 Mazda3 hatchback. Scheduled to debut later this
month at the LA Auto Show both in hatchback and sedan body styles, Mazda’s
all-new compact model looks promising in these first spy shots.
Carscoops photographers spotted a
fully-camouflaged prototype in Europe during testing and even got a peek at its
interior. Fortunately, Mazda didn’t bother disguising the cabin that much. As you can see in our gallery,
engineers tested the all-new Mazda3 alongside a VW Golf and Audi A3.
Furthermore, a current Mazda3 was also part of the test group.
Both the bodywork and the cabin reveal clear
influences from the Kai Concept, although the 2019 Mazda3 obviously looks a bit
toned down in comparison. The new Japanese compact hatchback displays harmonious proportions
and striking details. Those include the sharp headlights and taillights, the
gaping grille, as well as the dynamic treatment of the C-pillar. All of the
above are influences from the Kai Concept.
Inside, the dashboard is also reminiscent of said
study, adopting a similar layout with as few buttons as possible. As with the
concept, the instrument panel features three round gauges and the steering
wheel has three spokes. The big difference compared to the concept is the
addition of a floating central touchscreen that breaks the continuity of the
dashboard but is a “necessary evil.” The prototype seems to be a
well-equipped model that features red leather upholstery, leather-wrapped
dashboard with contrast stitching, and polished-aluminum trim, among other
materials.
The all-new Mazda3 will be the first production
vehicle to use the automaker’s SkyActiv Vehicle Architecture. The new platform
is expected to bring improved refinement, a lower seating position, and better
handling.
But its main contribution will be the radical new
engine technology called SkyActiv-X that features Spark Controlled Compression
Ignition (SCCI). The 2019 Mazda3 will feature a 2.0-liter SkyActiv-X gasoline
engine that promises to combine diesel-like fuel economy with the performance
typical of a petrol unit. The SkyActiv-X engine will deliver 190 PS and 230 Nm of torque, but Mazda will also offer two cheaper and smaller gasoline
and diesel units carried over from the outgoing model.
