Besides the obvious cosmetic changes, the Japanese firm has fitted the ‘3’ with the new Skyactiv-G gasoline engine and Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission. While no specific output and performance figures have been released for the new powertrain, Mazda did state that this is the first production vehicle to come with the new Skyactive engine and transmission technologies.
For now, all we can tell you about the development under the bonnet is that it features direct-injection technology and a higher compression ratio than its predecessors. Meanwhile, the automatic transmission promises to be light and compact, which should contribute to fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.
The exterior of the car benefits from a redesigned front end that features stronger, more masculine features. The redesigned grille looks just as stylish as any concept car and is accentuated by new fog bezels and front headlamps. The changes at the back aren’t as aggressive, but the rear bumper will make your US-spec Mazda3 stand for years to come. New sets of alloy wheels in 16-inch and 17-inch sizes round off the cosmetic changes for the 2012 model.
Comprehensive safety features are sure to include ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Emergency Stop Signaling system(ESS) as standard equipment and optional bi-xenon headlights with a pivoting adaptive front lighting system.
The 2012 Mazda3 will arrive the US showrooms this fall.
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