The Mazda 3 was launched in 2019 so a mid-life refresh seems right on cue four years on. Mazda will bring the new model to market next year and while it’s kept the exterior the same, the fourth-generation Mazda 3 will receive new technology and a revised trim level structure.
Pricing for the updated Mazda 3 has already been revealed however, with 18 models to choose from – 15 hatchbacks and 3 saloon models. Prime-Line will kick off the range, then Centre-Line, Homura, Exclusive-Line and finally the range-topping Takumi.
The main upgrade the 2024 Mazda 3 benefits from is the larger central screen, going from eight inches to 10.25 inches. It’s still not a touchscreen, with the control coming from the dial located on the centre console. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is now standard as is smartphone wireless charging. The USB ports have been swapped for USB Type-C units.
Engine options have been carried over. The four-cylinder e-Skyactiv X puts out 183bhp and there’s also a e-Skyactiv G with 120bhp – both are 2.0-litre petrol units that come with 24v mild-hybrid technology.
The lesser-powered e-Skyactiv G can be had across the full Mazda 3 trim level range, with a choice of automatic or manual transmissions. The more powerful e-Skyactiv X with a manual is available on Centre-Line and with the automatic gearbox option on Exclusive-Line and Takumi.
Prime-Line trim can only be had in hatchback guise and starts from £23,945 with the e-Skyactiv-G and the Mazda 3 hatchback fitted with the e-Skyactiv-X starts from £26,945. The saloon model starts at £29,245 and comes in Exclusive-Line and Takumi – only with the e-Skyactiv-X engine but with the option of an automatic or manual on the Takumi.
Mazda has decided to not fiddle with the styling of its Mazda 3 hatchback and saloon, although Homura models now get black wheels and door mirrors. A new Ceramic Metallic paint colour has been also introduced with the facelift.
Now read our in-depth review of the Mazda 3…
