11-09-2019:
Report of problems with the i stop system of new 2019 Mazda 3 malfunctioning every day and the charging system failing regularly. Both faults flagged up dashboard warnings to stop using the car and have them checked and rectified. Owner kept the car for two weeks and then successfully rejected it and received a full refund. Dealer denied faults at first and also initially refused to accept owner's right to reject within 30 days. He had to engage an expensive consumer rights lawyer to back up his rejection rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Owner also complained that car hads been delivered with a scrateched instrumnent panel and scratched piano black centre console.
30-10-2023:
Mazda 3 models with the Skyactiv-x MHEV engine can suffer from a misfire under gentle driving (1600 - 2300 rpm in 3rd/4th/5th gear). One reader managed (after much work) to get authorisation from Germany for a new short engine. Car was less than four years and had under 28,000 miles.
November 2018
New Mazda 3 makes debut
Features "more mature interpretation of Kodo design that embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics." Plus the breakthrough Skyactiv-X Spark Controlled Compression Ignition petrol engine that combines the drivability of a petrol engine with the fuel economy of a diesel and should be capable of 60mpg.
February 2019
New Mazda 3 goes on sale
Offered initially with either a 122PS 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol or 116PS Skyactiv-D diesel engine, the model line-up sees a choice of five trim levels: SE-L, SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech.
It features high-end technology such as a windscreen projecting colour head-up display with Traffic Sign Recognition, Mazda Radar Cruise Control and LED headlights across the range. Every model in the line-up also features navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an advanced eight speaker audio system.
From SE-L Lux onwards highlights include a reversing camera, smart keyless entry, heated front seats, while Sport Lux sees the high-class cabin enhanced with additional chrome detailing, a frameless rear view mirror and rear privacy glass. GT Sport sees the introduction of black leather seats with power adjustment, a heated steering wheel and Bose audio, while the range-topping GT Sport Tech features a suite of additional active safety equipment, including a 360 camera and Driver Attention Alert with interior camera.
With the exception of the flagship GT Sport Tech model, which is matched exclusively with the 122PS Skyactiv-G engine, all trims are offered with both diesel and petrol engines, while a choice between manual and automatic gearboxes is offered across the entire range.
For improved efficiency the Skyactiv-G petrol engine now features a cylinder deactivation system and Mazda’s M Hybrid 24V system. This mild-hybrid system improves fuel economy by recycling recovered kinetic energy. A belt-driven integrated starter generator (ISG) converts the energy in the 600kJ lithium-ion battery, while the DC-DC converter supplies it to the cars electrical equipment.
All models feature a seven-inch colour TFT driver instrument display, while the latest version of Mazda’s MZD-Connect infotainment system features a larger 8.8-inch central display, improved navigation and a revised multimedia commander control dial, to name just a few of the enhancements.
Offered exclusively on the hatchback, Mazda’s newest paint colour Polymetal Grey makes its debut on the All-New Mazda3. SE-L and SE-L Lux cars feature 16-inch silver wheels, while from Sport Lux onwards 18-inch Grey Metallic wheels, rear privacy glass and piano black window garnish distinguish higher grade models.
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G SE-L manual: £20,595
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G SE-L automatic: £21,895
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G SE-L Lux manual: £21,695
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G SE-L Lux automatic: £22,995
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G Sport Lux manual: £22,795
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G Sport Lux automatic: £24,095
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G GT Sport manual: £24,595
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G GT Sport automatic: £25,895
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G GT Sport Tech manual: £25,495
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G GT Sport Tech automatic: £26,795
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D SE-L manual: £22,395
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D SE-L automatic: £23,795
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D SE-L Lux manual: £23,495
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D SE-L Lux automatic: £24,835
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D Sport Lux manual: £24,595
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D Sport Lux automatic: £25,935
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D GT Sport manual: £26,395
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D GT Sport automatic: £27,735
April 2019
The 2019 Mazda3 has captured the “Red Dot: Best of the Best” prize at the 2019 Red Dot product design awards. This competition’s highest accolade is awarded to products whose designs are considered genuinely ground-breaking and visionary. It is designed according to the Kodo: Soul of Motion philosophy.
June 2019
SkyActiv-X petrol engine details announced
Making its debut in the new Mazda 3, Mazda’s new Skyactiv-X engine will go on sale in the UK this autumn.
Featuring Mazda’s unique Spark Plug Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology, the 2.0 litre, four-cylinder Skyactiv-X engine is the world’s first commercial petrol unit to combine the spark ignition of a petrol engine with the compression ignition of a diesel.
Mazda claims the SkyActiv-X engine will combine the free-revving performance of a petrol engine and the superior response of a diesel. It has maximum power output of 180PS and 224Nm of torque. It returns 52.3mpg under WLTP fuel economy tests and CO2 emissions from 96g/km depending on transmission and wheel size.
The Mazda 3 Skyactiv-X is also equipped with Mazda M Hybrid technology. This intelligent 24V mild-hybrid system minimises fuel consumption, increasing fuel economy and lowering emissions by recycling energy recovered during deceleration that powers an electric motor that assists the engine.
Orders will open later in 2019, available on both hatchback and saloon models with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The Mazda i-Activ all-wheel-drive system will be available on the Mazda 3 Skyactiv-X Hatchback. Full UK specification and pricing details of the Mazda3 Skyactiv-X will be announced next month.
July 2019
Mazda awarded “Red Dot: Best of the Best” prize for the All-New Mazda3. The Red Dot product design awards’ top honour is given by the international jury of design experts on only the most exceptional products.
July 2019
Prices and specifications announced for Mazda 3 Skyactiv-X
Arriving in October, Mazda 3s fitted with this clever engine will start from £23,555 with combined economy of up to 52.3mpg, while at the same time the Mazda3 saloon will make its UK debut powered by the 180ps Skyactiv-X engine and the 116ps Skyactiv-D diesel engine.
Featuring Mazda’s unique Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology, Skyactiv-X is the world’s first production petrol engine to exploit the benefits of compression ignition. Providing drivers with the free-revving performance of a petrol engine with the superior response of a diesel, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder 180ps Skyactiv-X engine features the highest compression ratio for a production petrol engine in the world, while its lean burn capabilities ensure outstanding fuel economy and low emissions.
The entry point to the Skyactiv-X line up, the £23,555 manual All-New Mazda3 Sport hatch emits 100g/km, while the identically priced Sport saloon emits just 96g/km. Across both body styles the Skyactiv-X powered Mazda3 is offered in Sport, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech trim levels, with a choice of automatic or manual transmission available on all models.
Additionally, for the first time since the Mazda 323 AWD, Mazda is offering UK drivers a four-wheel drive car in the family hatch segment. Exclusively matched to the high-grade GT Sport Tech trim and hatchback body, this Mazda3 combines the cutting-edge efficiency of the Skyactiv-X engine with the security and dynamic excellence of Mazda’s latest i-Activ all-wheel drive system.
Like the rest of the range, Skyactiv-X hatch and saloon models are specified with a level of standard equipment never seen before on a Mazda in this sector: the All-New Mazda3 features high-end technology such as a windscreen projecting colour head-up display with Traffic Sign Recognition, Mazda Radar Cruise Control and LED headlights across the range. Every model in the line-up also features navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an advanced eight speaker audio system.
Even the Sport trim entry point to the Skyactiv-X range has a cabin enhanced with chrome detailing, a frameless rear view mirror and rear privacy glass, while Sport Lux models feature a reversing camera, smart keyless entry and heated front seats. GT Sport sees the introduction of black leather seats with power adjustment, a heated steering wheel and Bose audio, while the range-topping GT Sport Tech features a suite of additional active safety equipment, including a 360-degree camera and Driver Monitoring System with interior camera.
Exclusive to cars powered by the Skyactiv-X engine, GT Sport and GT Sport hatchbacks can be specified with £200 Burgundy leather, while the saloon can be equipped identically priced Stone leather.
Inside, the stylish cabin environment takes a minimalist approach with every aspect of the cockpit laid out in perfect horizontal symmetry with the driver to deliver both ergonomic simplicity and beautiful design.
Mazda’s focus on Japanese mastery inspired craftsmanship is evident in both high-class materials found throughout the interior and the impressive build quality. All models feature a seven-inch colour TFT driver instrument display, while the latest version of the Mazda Connect infotainment system features a larger 8.8-inch central display, improved navigation and a revised multimedia commander control dial, to name just a few of the enhancements.
Like the Skyactiv-G petrol engine, Mazda’s Skyactiv-X engine is matched to the Mazda M Hybrid 24V mild-hybrid system that recycles recovered kinetic energy. A belt-driven integrated starter generator (ISG) converts the energy in the 600kJ lithium-ion battery, while the DC-DC converter supplies it to the cars electrical equipment.
Externally, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech Skyactiv-X powered cars are marked out by bright 18-inch alloy wheels on the saloon and metallic black alloys on the hatchback, while the keen eyed will spot the wider exhaust tailpipe and Skyactiv-X tailgate badge.
A stand out compact premium small saloon, the All-New Mazda3 saloon shares just its bonnet and windscreen with the hatchback, ensuring that it delivers a uniquely sophisticated and executive look distinct from the hatchback. Sharing an identical wheelbase, the saloon is 200mm longer, while the 444-litre boot ensures this stylish saloon delivers impressive levels of practicality.
September 2019
Mazda announced that the 2019 Mazda 3 with revolutionalry Skyactiv X engine is now on sale across Europe. Featuring Mazda’s unique Spark Plug Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology, the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder Skyactiv-X engine is the world’s first commercial petrol unit to combine the spark ignition of a petrol engine with the compression ignition of a diesel. It now launches across Europe in the All-New Mazda3, delivering 180PS and 224Nm of maximum torque with smooth, free-revving performance, excellent responsiveness and outstanding real-world fuel consumption.
October 2019
Mazda 3 diesel axed
Mazda no longer sells the Mazda 3 with the Skyactiv-D diesel engine.
August 2020
Mazda 3 100th Anniversary Special Edition priced from £29,995
Celebrates Mazda's centenary with Snowflake White paint and burgundy interior. Limited to 100 examples in the UK. Powered by Skyactiv-X engine.
March 2021
Mazda 3 updated with e-Skyactiv X engine
The 2021 model year versions of the Mazda CX-30 and Mazda 3 see the debut of the updated version of Mazda’s unique Skyactiv-X SPCCI Spark Controlled Compression Ignition petrol engine. Renamed e-Skyactiv X, the updated version delivers increased performance and even more efficiency.
The latest 2.0-litre e-Skyactiv X engine produces 186PS at 6000rpm and maximum torque of 240Nm at 4000rpm – an increase of 6ps and 16Nm respectively
Corresponding to the renaming of the e-Skyactiv X engine, Mazda’s 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine is moving to e-Skyactiv G naming.
On sale from the 1st April, the nine-model 2.0-litre e-Skyactiv G line-up features SE-L, SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech trims with the option of an automatic gearbox on all but the entry-level SE-L. The e-Skyactiv X hatchback range features nine cars across SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech trims with the option of an automatic gearbox from Sport Lux onwards. Additionally, the stylish 2021 Mazda 3 Saloon is offered exclusively with the e-Skyactiv X engine with the same nine model line-up as the hatchback.
Small changes to the Mazda3 see a sunroof added to Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech e-Skyactiv X models.
August 2024
2025 Mazda3 available to order now with new 140PS engine option
Mazda has announced that the latest version of the Mazda3 is available to order. While the interior and exterior design is unchanged, all models get Alexa Voice Assistant, and the Mazda navigation system now benefits from cloud-based points of interest and database updates.
The biggest change to the 2025 Mazda3 line-up is the introduction of a new e-Skyactiv G engine. Replacing the current 122PS 2.0-litre e-Skyactiv G engine, the 140PS 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G becomes the entry level Mazda3 engine.
The 186PS e-Skyactiv-X engine is retained unchanged and both engines can be had with a manual or automatic transmission.