MAZDA 3 / Axela Hatchback Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

2018 - Present

Mazda introduced the fourth generation of the 3/Axela at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show and was offered as a 2019 model-year worldwide. This nameplate was one of the most important in Mazda's inventory since it was the one that could provide big numbers. But while other automakers made their compact-sized vehicles in more shapes, such as coupes, convertibles, and wagons, the Japanese automaker focused on the sedan and five-door hatchback form. Following the Kodo design language introduced in 2010 and already present on the CX-9 or the 6, the 3 hatchback featured similar flowing li...

2016 - 2018

The 2016 Mazda 3 is one of the most important contenders in the compact hatchback market. It has a lot of things to offer and a few things to ask. Its name in the JDM market and China is Axela, but basically, it is the same car. It has a nice, fluid, look, called Kodo design in the Mazda's family. Now, the Mazda 3 has separated itself from the Ford's C platforms and came with its platform that features a McPherson strut up front and a semi-independent system in the rear. But even if they tried their best to make that rear suspension behave good, it is still not an independent suspe...

2013 - 2016

After Ford's era, Mazda rejoiced its freedom again and put passion back in its cars. Even though the 3 was not exactly the kind of car that should inspire some emotions, it did. And the 2013 model proved it. Thanks to its sporty appearance and its fluid bodywork lines, the 3 was a commercial success all over the world. While the sedan version was more or less desirable by those who wished to have a three-box sedan vehicle, the hatchback was the one that ignited younger buyers' imagination. The 2013 model year was shorter, wider, and lower than its predecessor. Its entire body...

2009 - 2013

Mazda took its own path after splitting with Ford due to the world financial crisis when the blue-oval brand sold most of its stakes in the Japanese carmaker. The 2009 Mazda 3 was based on the previous model, developed together with Ford. But the changes brought to the model were extensive and important. In addition, the car came with a new design language, known as Zoom-Zoom. Some of the important improvements over the previous generation were the standard introduction of the ABS on all versions, starting from the base trim level. With its fresh design cues that combined arched lines ...

2004 - 2009

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-c...