Facelifted Mazda3 gets more tech and updated paint palette

15 August 2023 - 11:15
subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now
The facelifted Mazda 3 can be ordered in new Ceramic White paint.
The facelifted Mazda 3 can be ordered in new Ceramic White paint.
Image: Supplied

Japanese carmaker Mazda has given its popular hatchback range a bit of a makeover. 

Designed to woo tech-savvy customers, the entry-level Mazda3 1.5l Dynamic derivatives now come standard with an eight-inch infotainment system offering both Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility. Wired to eight loudspeakers, this standout feature is complemented by USB-C connectivity, a wireless smartphone charging pad and a leather-clad multifunction steering wheel. Other standard niceties include a head-up display, seven-inch TFT display set in the instrument cluster, automatic LED headlamps, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, reversing camera, rear park sensors and cruise control. 

On the exterior side, customers can specify a new paint colour called Ceramic White.

The flagship 2.0 Astina model is fitted with a set of 18-inch grey metallic alloy wheels.
The flagship 2.0 Astina model is fitted with a set of 18-inch grey metallic alloy wheels.
Image: Supplied

Rolling on 16-inch alloy wheels, the Dynamic models are powered by a 1.5l naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine making 88kW and 153Nm when meshed to the six-speed manual transmission and 82kW and 146Nm when paired to the six-speed auto.

Those seeking an extra dollop of luxury can opt for the flagship 2.0l Astina model, which comes equipped with an even more impressive array of standard features. Highlights include a 12-speaker Bose sound system, dual-zone climate control, smart keyless entry, an automatic dimming rear-view mirror, black leather seat upholstery (burgundy is available as an option), a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, power slide-and-tilt glass sunroof, integrated navigation and rear air vents. Mazda has also spliced in active driver aids such as adaptive front lighting, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.

Riding on 18-inch grey metallic alloy wheels and available exclusively with a six-speed automatic gearbox, the Astina is powered by a 2.0l naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine producing 121kW and 213Nm. Fuel consumption comes in at a claimed 6.3l/100km across the combined cycle, which is only 0.4l/100km more than the 1.5 Dynamic Auto.

Available at dealers, pricing for the refreshed Mazda3 range is as follows:

1.5 Dynamic manual: R447,500 

1.5 Dynamic automatic: R462,500

2.0 Astina automatic: R565,700

Pricing includes a standard three-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and service plan.


subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.