2019 Mazda Mazda3 | 2018 LA Auto Show

Read more about the 2019 Mazda Mazda3: https://cargur.us/rfq9g

The redesigned shield-style grille evokes the larger CX-5 crossover, but the rest of the car is truly one-of-a-kind. On the hatchback, you’ll notice the sharp edge of the door openings just before the rear begins to taper dramatically. It’s very reminiscent of Mazda’s Kai design concept, and I can’t think of another car in this class with this much style.

Below the sheet metal, we have Mazda’s new Skyactiv-X engine. A supercharged 4-cylinder, it manages to increase fuel economy and power by combining an ultralean fuel mixture with a controlled combustion ignition. Think of it as the best parts of a diesel engine combined with the best parts of a gas engine. Lots of automakers have tried this, but Mazda is the first to make it work.

The 2019 Mazda3 will also offer all-wheel drive. But we do have one bit of concern: The previous Mazda3 was exceptionally fun to drive, but, even with all-wheel drive, this one might not be as good. Mazda’s replaced the rear suspension with a much more rudimentary setup. It’s the same rear-end you’ll find on the CX-3 crossover, and Chris Wardlaw noticed some bouncing and wiggling when he tested that recently.

The interior is incredibly minimal. The whole design seems like a class in perspective drawing, with all these details seeming to taper to a vanishing point. And look: You’re more likely to find this kind of broad swath of soft-touch leather across the dash of a luxury car, which is exactly what Mazda wants you to think.

Mazda’s gained a reputation for luxury interiors at sub-luxury price tags, and this one’s no different. Trims with the new engine will probably stretch into the upper 20-thousand-dollar range, but we’ll know for sure just before these cars hit dealerships in the summer of 2019.

Presenter: Matt Smith
Cinematographer: Jake Hughes

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