[Auto] Mazda 3 MY2021: Japan will be the first to enjoy this slight restyling

[#Steeven.™]

The fourth, and current, generation of the Mazda 3 has been a great step for the image of the Japanese firm. With it they have been able to get a little closer to the premium aura of brands such as the untouchables Volkswagen or Audi. However, this new positioning in the market makes it more vulnerable than its rivals. The reasons for this are many, although the most obvious has to do with the public's perception of the brand.

His official presentation took place at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2018. He is days away from his second year of life, but to prevent customers from noticing his enemies, his managers have already given him the first restyling. As is clear from the official images that the brand has released, it is so subtle that it is difficult to realize what changes they have introduced. However, we tell you that yes, there are.

The Mazda 3 MY2021 does not look in its design to evolve

The styling of the Mazda 3 is based on the design language "Kodo - Soul of Movement". The way the Hiroshima House creative team has executed its lines can be considered as a work of art. This has allowed it to approach a public that knows how to appreciate beauty and that wants to enjoy a model that is different from the rest of what is in the compact segment. However, the modernity of his strokes is not disputed.

It is for this reason that the evolution of 3 MY2021 is limited to certain details or nuances. If we look closely, we can see that unpublished logos arrive at the previous wheel arch. With them they refer to the real changes that have come with this restyling: their engines. The alloy wheels are also redesigned with more sporty and attractive lines. As an ornament, they have specific moldings for the central area.

 

The great evolution is under your skin ... your engines

Its image aside, the true evolution of the Mazda 3 MY2021 is under the skin. In Japan, which is one of the most successful markets, they like powerful mechanics. And this is what the brand is going to offer them as the engineering department has improved the performance of some mechanics. To be more exact, they have developed the mild hybrid e-SKYACTIV X version and the 1.8-liter SKYACTIV-D diesel.

In the first case, the 2.0 e-SKYACTIV X petrol unit optimizes the «SPCCI» combustion control. As a result, power and torque improve over almost the entire rev range. In addition, the final performance has been increased, going to offer 190 hp and 240 Nm of maximum torque. For its part, the SKYACTIV-D diesel has a finer electronic management that allows it to improve and offer 95 kW (130 hp) of power.

As a novelty, a new 6MT 6-speed manual transmission arrives. This option will be associated with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 version of the hatchback body. Regarding its technique, the chassis receives a new suspension scheme with helical springs and newly adjusted shock absorbers. There is still no data on the possible evolution of the rest of the sections, although when it lands on the European market there will be more details.

Lastly, we should mention his new security skills. The Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) system of acceleration / deceleration control is better adapted to the characteristics of the road and the driver. In addition, the maximum speed of the CTS system, which helps reduce fatigue in traffic jams, has been raised to 55 kilometers per hour. In addition, it improves the tracking and steering assistance function.