New 2015 Mazda 3 CKD Launched In Malaysia: Sedan GL, Sedan High and Hatchback From RM109k

Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd has finally introduced the new 2015 Mazda 3 CKD which not only brings about a more affordable price tag, but also introduces a new hatchback body style as well.

Update : Check out our updated review of the 2015 Mazda 3 by clicking here!

Previously a fully imported model, the arrival of the CKD model now sees three variants being offered, two of which are in the sedan body style and a new hatchback body style with prices starting from RM109k to RM125k, substantially undercutting the CBU unit’s RM138k price tag.

Prices of the three variants are as below (inclusive of GST, insurance):

• 2015 Mazda 3 SkyActiv Sedan GL: RM108,941 (Solid); RM109,341 (Metallic)
• 2015 Mazda 3 SkyActiv Sedan High: RM124,354.40 (Solid); RM124,754.40 (Metallic)
• 2015 Mazda 3 SkyActiv Hatchback: RM124,354.40 (Solid); RM124,754.40 (Metallic)

The Mazda3 SkyActiv CKD is available in four color choices: Artic White, Meteor Grey Mica, Aluminium Metallic, and Blue Reflex Mica.

Buyer’s Guide:

The arrival of the Mazda 3 CKD is good news for those who were previously put off by the commanding price tag of the CBU unit. The entry-level has a very tempting price tag but take note that it will have to do away with a few features.  

Of course the most enticing addition would have to be the hatchback body style for those seeking an alternative to the sedan while maintaining the same price tag as the Sedan High variant. Curiously, they do not share the same set of features.

At the very top sits the Sedan High (shown here) that sees nearly a RM14k price cut from the CBU unit but at the expense of the sunroof. However, that is a minor loss compared to what it gains in other features.

Performance:

All three variants of the 2015 Mazda 3 CKD will be powered by the same SkyActiv-G 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder petrol engine that outputs 162hp at 6,000 rpm and 210Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Drive is still sent to the front wheels through a SkyActiv-DRIVE six-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

KEY SPECS:

• Engine: SkyActiv-G 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder, 16 valve DOHC with dual variable valve timing and direct injection
• Transmission: SkyActiv-DRIVE six-speed torque converter automatic
• Power: 162hp @ 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 210Nm @ 4,000 rpm

Exterior Styling:

Very few differences separate the CKD unit from the CBU one. The most obvious would be the inclusion of hatchback body style which measures 4,460mm compared to the sedan’s 4,580mm. Sadly, the Hatchback was nowhere in sight at Mid Valley Megamall at the time of our visit.

The Sedan High however, retains a lot of what the CBU unit had including the bi-xenon headlamps with auto levelling but sees the removal of the sunroof as mentioned earlier. Daytime running lights (DRLs) are found on the Hatchback and Sedan High but not on the Sedan GL

Sedan GL: With the addition of an entry-level variant, numerous changes have been done in an effort to drive cost down beginning with the size of wheels. Where the Sedan High and Hatchback are equipped with 18-inch alloys wrapped in 215/45 series tyres, the GL will instead wear 16-inch alloys wrapped in 185/60 series tyres. Also, halogen headlamps are found at the front instead of bi-xenon headlamps on its sibling variants.

Interior Design

The GL variant and others across the range come with Mazda’s MZD CONNECT multimedia system with a seven-inch LCD display and Commander Control as seen on the previously launched Mazda 2. The unit features the usual inputs including AM/FM, CD, Bluetooth, AUX, and USB, played back through a six-speaker setup. The seats and upholstery utilise fabric as its material.

Hatchback: Adding to the above, the Hatchback gains GPS navigation for the MZD CONNECT system, paddle shifters, and automatic single zone air-conditioning.

Sedan High: The Sedan High carries on from what the GL and Hatchback has but with the addition of powered adjustable seat on the driver side, leather seats and upholstery, and an Active Driving Display (heads-up display) as that found on the Mazda 2.

Other Features:

Push-start and Mazda’s i-Stop Idling Stop System come standard on all three variants but only the Hatchback and Sedan High gets smart keyless entry.

Elsewhere, automatic windshield wipers is reserved solely for the Sedan High including cruise control.

Safety Features:

From the entry-level variant upwards, the Mazda 3 CKD comes well equipped in terms of safety with the top-of-the-range Sedan High benefiting from additional safety systems in the form of Mazda’s i-ACTIVESENSE suite. Here’s the safety features that come with each variant:

Mazda 3 SkyActiv Sedan GL:

• Six airbags (dual front, side, curtain)
• ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
• ISOFIX child-seat anchors
• Dynamic Stability Control
• Traction Control System

Mazda 3 SkyActiv Hatchback: (adds to the above)

• Adaptive Front-Lighting System

Mazda 3 SkyActiv Sedan High: (adds to the above)

• High Beam Control System (HBC)
• Smart City Brake System (SCBS)
• Rear Vehicle Monitoring (RVM)
• Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)

Other information:

Bermaz Motor will also be offering a three-year warranty on each purchase of the Mazda 3 CKD along with a three-year free scheduled maintenance following the manufacturer’s standard. Bookings are now open and you can view the new 2015 Mazda 3 CKD in showrooms including the hatchback body style beginning tomorrow. Various roadshows will also be taking place in Peninsular Malaysia which you can check out here.

Related : 2015 Mazda 3 SkyActiv Full Review - The Hero You Know