2004 Mazda 3/Axela Hatchback Photos, engines & full specs

Mazda replaced the 323 lineup with the 3/Axela in 2003 for the JDM market, and in the following year, it launched it for international customers.

Fitted with a completely new platform shared with the second generation of the European Ford Focus, the 3/Axela was available in two body versions: hatchback and sedan. While it wasn't a revolutionary vehicle, it enjoyed great success thanks to its design, suspension, engine lineup, and competitive price.

Following a new-edge-design styling, the 3 featured a dynamic look but not aggressive. Its pentagonal-shaped grill featured two body-colored slats and the automaker's chromed badge. In the lower bumper, Mazda installed an additional grille flanked on the sides by scoops for the fog lights. For the hatchback, the carmaker used different doors than the sedan due to the roof's shape. Behind them, the carmaker added a third side window, which increased the driver's three-quarters visibility.

Inside, the 3/Axela featured a curved dashboard with three binocular-style clusters for the instrument panel, with the speedometer in the middle and the tachometer on the left. The right side was for the coolant temperature, fuel level, and a small, monochrome LCD. Its front bucket seats with decent side bolstering provided good lateral support for its occupants. At the same time, the rear bench was suitable for two adults and a child in the middle. As expected in any hatchback from those times, the rear bench was 60/40 split-folding and expanded the trunk area from 346 liters (12.2 cu-ft) to 878 liters (31 cu-ft).

The independent suspension in all corners distinguished the 3/Axela from most competitors. Thus, Mazda provided a comfortable vehicle even for the passengers seated in the rear. Yet, that solution affected the trunk space.