Thanks for logging in.

You can now click/tap WATCH to start the live stream.

Thanks for logging in.

You can now click/tap LISTEN to start the live stream.

Thanks for logging in.

You can now click/tap LATEST NEWS to start the live stream.

LISTEN
Watch
on air now

Create a 4BC account today!

You can now log in once to listen live, watch live, join competitions, enjoy exclusive 4BC content and other benefits.


Joining is free and easy.

You will soon need to register to keep streaming 4BC online. Register an account or skip for now to do it later.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

New generation Mazda 3 moves more upmarket but so too does the price

David Berthon

Talking further on the next generation Mazda 3 I previewed this week, due on sale in the second quarter. Mazda Australia have pitched the new model more upmarket – the entry G20 Pure as its now called in manual kicking off at 24,990, $4,500 more expensive to the current entry Neo Sport. Automatic, the predominant seller, however now adds only $1,000, a $1,000 saving. Mazda Australia knows the more premium feel of the new Mazda 3 will see it lose some sales – however it also agrees many customers currently buy the upmarket models looking for higher technical spec and safety equipment. The Mazda 3 G20 Pure gains a full head-up display, an 8.8-inch colour touch screen with sat-nav and a raft of crash preventing technology. As I said earlier the new hatch styling is a knockout especially around the rear three-quarter and it has a premium feel – ultra high-tensile steel now makes up 30 per cent of the body compare to 3 percent currently and Mazda claim big gains in NVH or noise, vibration and harshness levels. The new hatch body design is more driver and front passenger orientated to the rear seat area which is tighter to the current model but the overall finishes, materials and controls are a big step up and feel premium. I’m yet to sight the sedan in the flesh but the new generation Mazda 3 hatch is a big step up in six grades with 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre engine carryovers. Paint quality a high point – the popular Mazda Soul Red Crystal a $495 option so too a classy new Polymetal Grey Metallic. I’m David Berthon

 

Download this podcast here

David Berthon
Advertisement