Video: Review - 2019 Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High Plus

Say hello to the all-new Mazda 3, one of the most highly-anticipated cars of 2019.

Launched in July, the all-new Mazda 3, which is being imported from Japan, is currently being offered in Malaysia in five variants:

• Mazda 3 1.5 Hatchback - RM 139,770
• Mazda 3 1.5 Sedan - RM 139,770
• Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High - RM 150,059
• Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High Plus - RM 160,059
• Mazda 3 2.0 Hatchback High Plus - RM 160,059

The model which we got our hands on was the range-topping variant – the Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High Plus, which retails at RM 160,059 on the road without insurance.

Powering the car you see here is Mazda’s 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G petrol engine which outputs 162 hp and 213 Nm, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Among the notable features on the Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High Plus include

• 18-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R18 tires
• LED headlights with Front Signature Illumination
• LED DRLs
• LED tail lights with Rear Signature Illumination
• Front and rear parking sensors
• i-ActivSense advanced driver assistance system
• Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS)
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
• Lane-keep Assist System (LAS)
• Drive Attention Alert (DAA)
• Front and Rear Smart Brake Support (SBS)
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC)
• Rear spoiler (hatchback only)

Thanks to the extensive list of equipment, and also the improved build quality, refinement, and design over the outgoing model, it is no surprise that the price has increased by a significant amount, but is it worth it?

So, in order to get a first-hand experience with the car, and to see what it has to offer and if it’s worth the hype, we took it for a spin, and here is what we think of it.

Our Rating

• Design:  3.5/5 (Hatchback looks sexier)
• Driving Dynamics: 4/5 (Definitely the best driving car in its segment)
• Comfort: 3.5/5 (Seats are designed to constantly keep you in an upright position)
• Convenience: 4/5 (Plenty storage space, rear A/C vent, 2 USB ports, HUGE boot)
• Space: 3/5 (Rear seat space comes at a premium)

Ups & Downs

• Plus: Excellent design, build quality is on par with European cars, good handling, generous boot space, impressive audio system
• Minus: Tight rear seat space, firm suspension, price tag

Verdict

The all-new Mazda 3 has become more of an enthusiast’s car than a product for the masses. Yes, you can get your hands on a full-blown SUV for RM10,000 cheaper, but if driving enjoyment and styling are on top of your priority list, the Mazda 3 may be the car for you. In fact, it is built so well that we can actually consider it to be a more affordable alternative to cars like the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Looking for a brand new Mazda? Get the best deals here.