– Redesigned Compact Car Bests Four Top Finalists, Including 2014 Mazda6 –
California, USA – All-New Mazda3 was today named “Car of the Year” by the editors of AutoGuide.com, beating fellow finalist, the 2014 mid-size sedan, in the process.
This redesigned, third-generation 2014 model features Mazda-developed SKYACTIV Technology and emotive character lines of ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ design language.
It also features new Mazda systems such as i-ACTIVSENSE, a suite of active-safety pre-crash detection systems, and MZD Connect, a next-generation driving-focused in-vehicle connectivity system that also features an innovative Active Driving Display.
“We truly put our best foot forward with the All-New Mazda3, not only to be competitive within its class but to be the vehicle that consumers have asked for,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO).
“Never one to shy away from dynamic handling, this All-New Mazda3 also is value-minded, safety-oriented and technology-driven. Our best-selling vehicle worldwide should feature the best of what Mazda has to offer as well as give hints as to what’s to come not just for the model line-up but for the brand as a whole.”
The five finalists for the AutoGuide.com Car of the Year Award were chosen from among all-new cars introduced this year as the stand-outs in their respective segments. The five segments are compact car, mid-size sedan, full-size sedan, compact luxury and mid-size luxury. This is the second year the award has been presented.
“Combining attractive styling inside and out, with impressive features in versatile packaging, the 2014 Mazda3 is also efficient and fun to drive,” said Colum Wood, editorial director, AutoGuide.com. “It’s not that the Mazda3 is a great compact car; it’s simply a great car, period.”
In Australia, All-New Mazda3 arrives in late January and will be available in two body styles – hatch and sedan – with a choice of petrol engines between the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre. The former produces 114kW and 200Nm while the latter boasts 138kW and 250Nm.
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