Mazda 3 launched in Singapore

By topgearsingapore, 27 February 2014

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Singapore – While European automakers are working towards putting together relatively torquey, highly efficient small displacement turbocharged units, Mazda is sticking to the philosophy of developing nat-asp powerplants for the benefit of a smooth driving experience, as represented by the newly launched Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback.

It looks sharper than the predecessor, and might even be mistaken as a Mazda 6 to the untrained eye. That's not an entirely bad thing, too, since Mazda designers have been on a winning streak, stringing gorgeous-looking vehicles these couple of years across the model range.

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Performance wise, it features a 1.5-litre "SKYACTIV-G" motor beneath the hood pushing 120bhp, placing it well within "Category A" in the COE scheme. And as for the transmission, Mazda sticks with 6spd auto, which according to Mazda engineers "maximises the best features of a direct-shift gearbox and a conventional torque-converter system. These mechanical improvements supply the Mazda 3 with a claimed fuel consumption of 5.7l/100km.

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Eurokars Group, the local distributor of Mazda, will be offering both the sedan and hatchback variant in two trim levels, "Standard" and "Deluxe".

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The "Deluxe" trim will be equipped with goodies such as intermittent rain sensors, front fog lamps, a 7-inch LCD display on the centre console, electric assistance for the driver's seat, heads up digital display, cruise control and keyless entry.

As expected, key rivals for the Mazda 3 hatchback will be Volkswagen's Golf and Toyota's Auris, while the sedan will face stiff competition with the Volkswagen Jetta and Toyota's recently launched Corolla Altis.

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Launch price for the Mazda 3 sedan in "Standard" trim will be S$132,988, and the "Deluxe" trim will cost S$138,988.

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As for the hatchback, "Standard" trim will cost S$136,988, while the "Deluxe" will be sold for S$142,988.

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