The Mazda3 has just undergone some cosmetic changes to entice its fans. The 2012 model has received a number of enhancements that make it an even more attractive proposition to customers, according to Mazda South Africa.

The Mazda3 comes in two body styles - a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback.

For the sportier consumer, there is the Mazda3 MPS, which is one of the most powerful front-wheel drive compacts.

The Mazda3 boasts a redesigned front end that not only adds to the overall styling of the car but ensures aerodynamic benefits too.

The changes give the exterior a well-toned muscular appearance that underscores the car's solid build quality.

This focus was carried through to the inside, where new materials and colours enhance the quality feel, while the optimised ergonomics make the Mazda3 easier to use.

The sporty front face with large five-point grille has been updated to create a richer and more stylish impression.

The corners of the front bumper now have a larger fascia around the air-inlets, new round fog lights embedded in their lower sections, and a lower front lip that protrudes outwards more than before.

Changes were also made to the back of the five-door version. The rear bumper is slimmer than before and the reflectors are placed closer to the side panels.

As a result, it looks wider when seen from the back. The shortened rear bumper allows easier loading and unloading.

The sporty silhouette of the Mazda3 is enhanced by new 16- and 17-inch wheel designs.

The interior is also updated to be more stylish and functional. Features include a sporty dashboard, a telescopic and height adjustable steering wheel and a high-mount shift level backed by a centre console that allows easy shifting with a flick of the wrist.