The wait is over: The fourth-generation Mazda3 is now in the country

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August 14, 2019

As SUVs and crossovers continue to rule the roost in the automotive industry, vehicle makers like Mazda seem to think there the compact sedan is far from dead. We say this based on the recent launch of the all-new, fourth-generation Mazda3 in the country.

Brought in by Bermaz Auto Philippines, the 2020 Mazda3 sports an evolutionary design that takes its cue from the Kodo Soul of Motion styling handbook. This time, the look is sleeker and more flowing. The changes are most apparent at the rear, especially on the Sportback with its rather bulbous C-pillar.

The new revisions continue into the cabin where a more minimalist theme can be found. There is a noticeable lack of physical buttons, save for the ones sued for the dual-zone climate control. Everything else can now be manipulated by the rotary knob and buttons on the center console that are connected to the 8.8-inch display for the MZD Connect user interface.

Apart from the clean-looking dash, Mazda has put in place premium materials that give the interior a more upscale vibe. Adding to this feeling are amenities such as rear aircon vents, power driver’s seat, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, adaptive cruise control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control, navigation, and a Head-up display.

Buyers can choose between the four-door sedan or five-door Sportback. In addition, engine choices are either a 1.5-liter SkyActiv-G with 111hp and 146Nm or a 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G with 154hp and 200Nm of torque. Each mill is paired with a SkyActiv-Drive 6-speed AT with paddle shifters.

The safety front is taken care of by the usual slew of airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, driver attention alert, electric stability control, tire pressure monitor, high-beam assist, and a reverse camera. Goodies like lane departure warning and lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and smart brake support are available on high-spec variants.

The all-new Mazda3 rides on the new SkyActiv-Vehicle architecture that promises a more agile, better handling car thanks to its lightweight attributes. It is, after all, a Mazda which essentially equates to driving fun.

Get to see the 2020 Mazda3 in the following variants and their corresponding prices:

1.5L A/T Sedan Elite - Php 1,295,000

1.5L A/T Sportback Elite - Php 1,320,000

2.0L A/T Sedan Premium - Php 1,495,000

2.0L A/T Sportback Elite - Php 1,510,000

2.0L A/T Speed - Php 1,590,000

Photos: Paolo Lesaca

About the Author

Mr. Gerard Jude Castillo
Gerard has been a self-confessed car nut ever since he was a little boy. As a grown-up, he indulges in his passion by collecting toy cars (which he started since childhood) and reading up on the latest cars out there.  As Associate Editor, he will ensure that you get your fill of the latest cars in the market, as well as a load of automotive features.