Mazda in Malaysia is about to start selling locally assembled versions of the Mazda3 in coming months and already a facelift has been announced by Mazda Motor Corporation Japan for the global market. The facelifted Mazda3, which, in addition to receiving a facelift, will also offer the option of Mazda’s new SKYACTIV-G petrol engine and SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission. This initial application of Mazda’s SKYACTIV engine and transmission technologies – the first time they will be employed in a production vehicle – will realize higher torque at low- and mid-range engine speeds resulting in better drivability with less fuel consumption in everyday driving. Will the locally assembled Mazda3 get this new gearbox?
Mazda has stated that its goal is to improve fuel efficiency by 30 percent by 2015 (compared to 2008 levels). This will be accomplished through SKYACTIV technologies, which focus on improving the efficiency of internal combustion core technologies in association with vehicle weight reduction. Then, gradually, electrical devices such as idle-stop, regenerative braking and hybrid systems will be introduced to further improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions.
In addition to the new SKYACTIV engine and transmission offerings, the 2012 Mazda3 will receive new front and rear bumpers with a redesigned front grill, fog bezels and front headlamps. New 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels complete the 2012 exterior updates. This refreshed 2012 Mazda3 goes on sale at the end of 2011 and we reckon it will only be seen in the fully imported version for the 1st few years as the investment for locally assembly will need some time to recuperate.
