New 2017 Mazda 3 revealed: prices, specs and on sale date
Mazda reveals its updated Mazda 3 range will go on sale next month priced from £17,595
After our first drive of the updated Mazda 6 this week, the brand has revealed details of the 2017 model year revisions for the Mazda 3. The Vauxhall Astra rival is on sale from 1st October priced from £17,595.
The 2017 Mazda 3 range starts from £500 more than the existing model, but features a number of enhancements including revised exterior styling. The front grille design has been altered with what Mazda calls a "stronger three-dimensional look", while new fog light surrounds and door mirrors complete the design.
At the back, the hatchback version features a redesigned bumper, while the Fastback is unchanged. New colours and alloy wheel finishes are added to the line-up, too.
Inside, changes are centred around improving the 3's quality feel. This includes upgraded door materials, dash trim inserts and a new leather steering wheel design, while an electric parking brake is also added for the first time. Extra optional kit includes a heated wheel, adaptive LED headlights and an upgraded head-up display.
As we first tried in the updated Mazda 6, the 2017 3 gains Mazda's G-Vectoring Control. Rather than a torque vectoring function, the system subtly varies engine torque according to steering angle to improve stability and passenger comfort. It's standard across the range in the 6, and is likely to be in the new 3.
Also added is Mazda's Natural Sound Smoother technology to both the 1.5 and 2.2-litre diesel engines. A device fitted to the engine's pistons reduces knocking noise on start-up and improves refinement under load. New door seals and sound insulation aim to improve wind and road noise, too, while tweaks to the suspension aim to improve ride comfort and enhance handling.
The 3's engine range is unchanged in terms of performance, although the 2.2-litre diesel engine has a new system to improve throttle response. Expect customer deliveries of the facelifted model to begin before the end of the year.
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