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Frankfurt 2013: All-New Mazda3 Hatch and Sedan

The Mazda3 could be just another compact car from a Japanese automaker, but it so isn't. If you're in the market for a family car, this frankfurt debut should grab your attention.
 All-New Mazda3 Hatch and Sedan 11 photos
Photo: Stefan Baldauf / Robert Kah
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Not only did Mazda sent bring a bunch of cars in perfect condition to the famous German auto show, but they sent a whole convoy of them from Japan to Europe, thorough some of the worst roads in the world.

Another thing that's interesting about the all-new Mazda3 range of models is the sheer size of the thing. It's got a 2,700mm wheelbase and the overall length of the 5-door is 4,460mm, while the sedan is even bigger.

Another thing that we like is that Mazda refuses to follow the trend. They haven't fitted a single three-cylinder engine or downsized 1-liter unit. The Japanese automaker says bigger engines are much better at achieving the claimed fuel economy figures.

When we tested the bigger Mazda6 a few months ago, it came with a 2.2-liter diesel and we found it quite impressive. Because Mazda had reduced compression ration, the internals could be lighter and friction was thus reduced. In addition, the smaller combustion temperatures result in less NOx being generated. Together with the variable lift for the exhaust valves, this allows the unit to make due without using the NOx-cutting exhaust gas treatment, making the hardware simpler, lighter and cheaper.

If the Mazda3 proves to be as good as big sister, it's guaranteed sales success. If you want to know every engine the Mazda3 this story has you covered and if you want to se the latest KODO design goodness, take a look down below.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
Mihnea Radu profile photo

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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