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Mazda3 Goes Hybrid as Japanese Axela Model

When we tested the Mazda6 sedan, we really were pleasantly surprised by the drivetrain, not only the gearbox and smooth diesel engine, but also the energy recuperation system. Its little sister the 3 sedan has just one-upped that with a hybrid system.
Mazda Axela Hybrid 13 photos
Photo: Mazda
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In Japan, the Mazda3 is called the Axela, and has just received its first electrified drive. The system is only available in Japan right now, and comprises of a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline engine and an electric motor+battery combo.

The car was announced during a launch even, together with the whole Axela range. No specs were announced other than the headline grabber: 30.8 km/l. That’s equal to 3.24 l/100km.

The only cars to match this in the regular compact car class is VW’s 1.6 TDI eco setup which delivers about the same numbers for the Golf, Leon and A3. But, of course the real challenge for the Axela is Toyota’s Auris Hybrid with a 1.8-liter engine and systemic output of 136 PS. Mazda is known for making more dynamic cars that are fun to drive. With the new Mazda3, they ignored downsizing trends as they say there's a better chance of getting claimed numbers with bigger and thus less strained units.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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