New Mazda 3 Teased Ahead of November Debut

The Japanese automaker teased the latest iteration of its popular compact car in a video released this week. The video shows off the new 3’s rear quarter panel, which looks nearly identical to the rear quarter area of the Mazda Kai concept that was shown at the LA Auto Show in 2017. The Kai was intended to preview the next 3, and from what we hear, the production car is staying very true to the concept. The Kai was a hatchback, but it’s believed the new 3 will be offered as both a five-door and a four-door.

Excitingly, the compact will debut the automaker’s much talked about SkyActiv-X Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SCCI) engine. The supercharged four-cylinder offers improved efficiency but promises to remain powerful and fun to drive. The engine uses a combination of spark and compression ignition to burn extremely lean fuel mixtures, reducing both fuel consumption and emissions. We sampled the SkyActiv-X engine in a pre-production prototype last year, which you can read about right here for more information.

Mazda has already revealed the next-generation 3 would ditch its sporty multi-link rear suspension in favor of a torsion beam setup. The automaker says the torsion beam will allow them to improve the vehicle’s overall noise, vibration and harshness, bringing added refinement to please those customers who prefer comfort over sportiness.

SEE ALSO: It Appears the Mazda3 is Getting a Digital Gauge Cluster

Mazda fans can also expect a completely redesigned cabin that’s quieter and more comfortable than the current 3’s. The Kai Concept featured a minimalist interior with narrow, horizontally-mounted HVAC vents, and the production car is believed to feature similar styling. Mazda’s tacked-on infotainment screen will also be present, looking not so different than the MX-5’s or the Mazda 6’s. Images also leaked earlier this year of a slick-looking, Mazda-developed digital dash that’s believed to appear on the new 3, which you can see below.