Normally, a car will sell best when it's new, but the Mazda3 contravenes this code. The recently-superseded model enjoyed a sales peak right at the end of its production cycle (last year's global sales were up 37 per cent compared with when it was first introduced, in 2004).
The first-series Mazda3 is the brand's best-selling model and has so far accounted for one-third of Mazda's total global sales in the four years it has been on the market. So the new Mazda3 has a lot to live up to. From first impressions by way of a 400km drive through the New South Wales/Victoria border region on Australia's east coast, the new car seems every bit as good as the popular old model.
Although it's slightly bigger and heavier than before, this Mazda3 is more fuel-efficient and quieter. There are new features, too, such as stability control, a central information screen and a new five-speed automatic transmission with steering-mounted paddle shift.
There is plenty of equipment in the Mazda3 2-litre hatch destined for the Hong Kong market. A keyless entry and stop-start system, full leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, eight airbags, stability control, auto-on wipers and headlights, power sunroof, 31/2-inch multi-information display, steering-mounted controls for the audio system and information display, 17-inch alloy wheels and fold-in power mirrors are all standard.
The new Mazda3 shares much of the previous model's styling, yet takes the latest Mazda trademark design cues, such as the large lower grille and exaggerated, rounded front guards. The new look is sharp and distinctive.
The interior is of fine quality, with the right blend of hues and materials and a reassuring feel to the leather seats, which come as standard. Although some of the minor, less noticeable plastics in the cabin are not perfect, the interior feels as if it's made to last. It's super-quiet inside on all but Australia's coarse chip bitumen, when the reflected road noise becomes really obvious. Important for humid and hot summers is the climate control, which is more efficient with a 20 per cent larger heat exchanger and 50 per cent larger air compressor.
