Mazda’s engineers have proved that economical doesn’t have to mean boringIn an age when fuel economy, emissions and environmental responsibility seem to rule the roost, it’s all too easy to forget that, for most of us, the car still represents the last great individual freedom of the 21st century.
Mazda has never forgotten this. Nor has it forgotten that driving is supposed to be so much more than merely an economy-obsessed, pedestrian plod from A to B. It’s supposed to be engaging, entertaining. A pleasure. And in that context, performance matters.
That’s not to say Mazda doesn’t take the cost of motoring extremely seriously on your behalf, merely that it sees no reason to remove good, old-fashioned fun from the equation.
The ultimate weightwatcher
Mazda has a thing about weight. Actually, it’s more of an obsession. Why? Because, guzzling less for every mile you motor, a lighter car isn’t just easier on your wallet and the environment, it’s also more fun to drive.
The less weight the powertrain has to lug around, the more sprightly the performance; the less weight the chassis has to cope with, the more readily the car changes direction, the more agile the handling, and the sharper the car’s responses to every driver input.
That’s why, as a point of principle, every new Mazda is actually lighter that its predecessor. And it’s why the list of components in the all-new Mazda3 that have been targeted for weight saving measures includes (deep breath) the bodyshell, engine line-up, suspension, power-steering, brakes, mud guards, wiring loom and electrical systems, interior trim and equipment, and even the front seats.
Indeed, with kerbweights starting at just 1,347kg (includes 75kg driver), the all-new Mazda3 is one of the lightest cars in the C-segment.
SKYACTIV Engine Technology
The current obsession with downsizing obsession has seen an increasingly large number of smaller petrol engines equipped with turbochargers to compensate for their diminished power outputs.
The brains behind the all-new Mazda3’s lightweight SKYACTIV Technology see things a little differently – a little more clearly.
Recognising that a smaller engine will simply be bullied by everyday drivers seeking proper performance, Mazda’s engineers favour larger, conventionally aspirated four-cylinder engines. Not only do they deliver power and torque more smoothly over a wider rev range, they also return consistently better fuel economy under real-world driving conditions.
A chassis for enthusiasts
The Mazda3’s SKYACTIV Chassis has been tuned to respond more faithfully than ever to driver inputs. Although lighter, the new bodyshell is around 30% more rigid than its predecessor – which not only makes the car respond more accurately to the steering, it also allows the suspension damper settings to be softened, giving a more comfortable ride for no loss of handling agility.
The lighter front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension systems have been fettled to combine straight-line comfort and high speed stability with rapid, unquestioning obedience to steering inputs.
The new, smaller, lighter, electronic power steering system has a lower 14:1 gear ratio which combines the need for less wheel movement in the urban environment with all the accuracy and feel required of a sporting driving experience. Even the brake system has been overhauled to offer drivers less pedal play for more precise control.
Jinba Ittai: horse and rider as one
Ultimately, of course, all this painstaking fettling comes to nought if the whole doesn’t gel, perfectly, under the control of the driver. And that’s where Mazda’s Jinba Ittai (which translates as ‘Horse and rider as one’) approach comes in.
Even those who consider horses to be dangerous at both ends and uncomfortable in the middle cannot fail to recognise the almost telepathic empathy that exists between horse and rider during a world-class dressage event.
Substitute steering wheel, pedals and gearlever for reins and stirrups, and the analogy is spot on; every aspect of the Mazda3 is tuned to respond harmoniously to even the lightest touch of the driver’s feet and fingertips with perfect, poise, balance and agility.
Experience the all-new Mazda3 for yourself: download a brochure here, and book a test-drive here.
For more information on the all-new Mazda3, visit www.mazda.co.uk
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Retail sales only, subject to vehicle availability for vehicles registered between 01.10.14 and 31.12.14 at participating dealers. T&Cs apply. 0% finance available on all all-new Mazda3 models. You will not own the vehicle until all payments are made. Finance subject to status, 18s or over. Guarantee/indemnity may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR.
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