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This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily on July 19, 2019

KUALA LUMPUR: The all-new Mazda3, the first 7th generation production model to adopt the further evolved “soul of motion” KODO design and new generation Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, paired with exciting driving dynamics, has been unveiled in Malaysia.

In a joint statement, Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd and Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd said despite sharing the same Mazda3 moniker, a completely new design approach was taken on the styling of the model’s sedan and liftback variants, with each embodying strikingly different personalities.

Prima Merdu is the sole and exclusive importer of Mazda vehicles in Malaysia, while Bermaz Motor, a unit of Bermaz Auto Bhd, is the exclusive local distributor of Mazda vehicles and spare parts.

“The sleek and elegant design concept of the sedan presents sophisticated beauty which speaks of maturity and refinement. Flowing from front to rear in a single motion, the body presents powerful proportions with a graceful profile,” the statement read.

In contrast, the liftback’s “condensed and emotional” design concept presents what it terms a powerful and seductive appeal that evokes a sense of exciting experiences to come. “The dark metallic colour of the signature wing accentuates the liftback’s bold, sporty nature, and clearly distinguishes it from the sedan version,” it said.

Besides exterior upgrades, Mazda added that it has enhanced Mazda3’s fundamental driving attributes so that accelerating, turning and braking feel completely natural.

“Mazda’s new Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture realises a perfect fit with human sensibilities in terms of ride comfort and handling, enabling drivers to make the most of their natural sense.

“Mazda’s Skyactiv-Vehicle Dynamics evolved ‘G-Vectoring Control Plus’ equipped onto the Mazda3 improves handling in emergency collision avoidance manoeuvres, while offering a reassuring feeling of control when changing lanes on the highway and slippery road surfaces,” it added.

Mazda has also focused on reducing noise, vibration and harshness in the new model with improvements like sound-absorbing functionality added to the headliner and floor mats, and applying a new “two-wall” insulation structure that leaves a space between the body and carpeting on the floor.

A completely-built-up model from Japan, the all new Mazda3 is available in two engine choices — SKYACTIV-G 1.5L and 2.0L, with SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, along with Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus).

Selling prices for both the liftback and sedan start from RM139,620.

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