GO
GoAutoLogo
MENU

Make / Model Search

Mazda - Mazda3 - Diesel range

Mazda Mazda3 (BK Mazda3)

BK Mazda3

Make: Mazda

Model: Mazda3

Released: Jan 1970

Discontinued: Jun 2006

Mazda logo1 Jan 2004

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS

Another winner from Mazda, its front-wheel drive Mazda3 small car replaced the popular though dull Mazda 626-based 323.

After 26 years, Australian small car buyers were becoming more sophisticated and this delivered a big dose of style and driver appeal (thanks to being based on Ford’s global C1 platform that also spawns the Focus Mk2 and Volvo S40/V50), as well as more space, pace and practicality.

Four well-equipped models appeared – the Neo, Maxx, Maxx Sport and SP23.

All bar the latter utilised a 104kW/181Nm 2.0-litre DOHC 16V four-cylinder engine, while a detuned version of the Mazda6’s 2.3 unit underpinned the 115kW/203Nm SP23 – big alloys, a bodykit and lots of interior kit also set it apart.

All transmissions are five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Dual airbags, keyless entry, cloth seats, full instrumentation and a CD player are in all models.

Reviews

When it was new

Latest reviews

Motor industry news

GoAutoNews is Australia’s number one automotive industry journal covering the latest news, future and new model releases, market trends, industry personnel movements, and international events.

Catch up on all of the latest industry news with this week's edition of GoAutoNews
Click here