Redesigned Mazda3 to Reportedly Launch This Fall

Raynham, 04/01/2013 / SubmitMyPR /

Mazda currently has two models on the market that feature its full suite of new efficiency-focused SKYACTIV technologies, and now it appears that its best-selling vehicle, the Mazda3 compact car, is slated to receive the same treatment. Already offered with a SKYACTIV-G engine and the choice of an automatic or manual six-speed SKYACTIV transmission, the Mazda3 will reportedly complete the fuel-saving set with a lightweight SKYACTIV body and chassis when the next-generation model goes on sale this fall.

According to Automotive News, the autumn launch of the new Mazda3 will come as the Japanese automaker looks to eclipse 300,000 units in overall U.S. sales this year for the first time since the mid-1990s. Even with the next generation on the way, the current Mazda3 has been attracting new customers, moving a record 123,361 units in 2012, a 20 percent jump compared to the year prior.

"The existing 2013 Mazda3 already returns up to 40 mpg on the highway with its SKYACTIV drivetrain, but a new body, chassis and design language would likely mean even greater fuel efficiency and more record sales," said Barry Chew, sales manager of Mastria Mazda, a Mazda dealer in Massachusetts. "We've already seen the impact of the full SKYACTIV suite in the new CX-5 crossover and the recently launched 2014 Mazda6, and we can't wait to see how it comes together for Mazda's most popular model."

As Mazda's second vehicle to fully embrace SKYACTIV technologies, the 2014 Mazda6 has quickly accumulated accolades since its arrival at dealerships earlier this year. The midsize sedan recently received a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the organization's highest crash-protection designation. Comprised of 58 percent high-tensile steel, a new SKYACTIV-Body helped the Mazda6 earn the top score of "good" in the IIHS' frontal moderate overlap, side, roof and head-restraint crash tests, as well as an "acceptable" on the new small overlap crash test to take home the honor.

While the underpinnings of the new Mazda6 are proving safe, the model's unique exterior styling made it a finalist in the 2013 World Car Design of the Year competition. Donning the automaker's new KODO, or Soul of Motion, design theme, the 2014 Mazda6 sports a bold hexagonal grille flanked by angled headlights that sweep back over the flared fenders.

The World Car Design of the Year award is determined by 66 international automotive journalists, and the winner will be announced later this week at the New York International Auto Show. Joined by the Aston Martin Vanquish and the Jaguar F-Type as a finalist, the Mazda6 will be keeping luxurious company.

"The redesigned Mazda6 has the boldest style in the midsize segment, and if you need proof of that, look at how it is competing way upmarket with the likes of Aston Martin and Jaguar in New York," added Chew. "We expect that the new Mazda3 will receive similarly aggressive KODO design cues, including the brand's new family grille, but we'll just have to wait and see what the final product looks like."

About Mastria Mazda:
As the Mastria Auto Group's newest dealership in Raynham, Mass., Mastria Mazda has inherited the company's dedicated customer-first approach to vehicle sales and service. Local Mazda fans can find the automaker's entire fuel-efficient lineup at Mastria, with models ranging from the stylish Mazda3 to the versatile Mazda CX-5. Mastria Mazda not only matches Massachusetts motorists with their ideal Mazda model, but also offers an expert team of technicians to keep that vehicle running smoothly for years to come. Visit their dealership at 1545 New State Highway Route 44 in Raynham, call them at 888-415-0565 or visit them online at www.mastriamazda.com. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MastriaMazda.