CLUTCH, Malay Mail Motoring Today, The All-New Mazda CX-3 Presented
Enthusiasts of the Mazda brand will now be able to buy into the fastest growing segment of the industry, one that is driven by a very trendy and likeable model – the Freestyle Crossover. Crossovers deliver the driveability of sedans with the versatility and rugged, sporty image of SUVs. The all-new CX-3 Crossover introduced by Bermaz Motor brings all of these features in a smart and technologically-advanced package that looks set to steal the hearts of many.
SKYACTIV-G Power
The CX-3 is a scaled down version of Mazda’s best-selling CX-5, delivering uncompromising versatility with a punchy 154-horsepower 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G engine that delivers 204Nm of torque. The fifth model in Mazda’s line-up of new-generation vehicles to feature the full suite of the design, the CX-3 adopts the KODO — Soul of Motion design language and full range of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY.
The new CX-3 Freestyle crossover SUV was developed to “Create the standard for the next era.” It’s a vehicle designed to meet the needs of a new generation of car buyers, supporting creative and adventurous lifestyles. More than merely power and speed, the CX-3 is about delivering ease of handling on city streets, reassuring confidence on the highway and, in particular, faithful response when negotiating curving roads.
Weight Reduction Obsession
Mazda is preoccupied with weight and lightweight high-strength steel played a big role on the CX-3, with almost two-thirds of the body (63%) by weight made up of steels rated at 440MPa or higher. The engineers even used 1,180MPa ultra-high tensile steel for 11 components, including the A-pillars and cross-members connecting the B-pillars, and 1,800MPa hot-stamped steel on the front bumper beams. Besides being exceptionally impact resilient, the latter also cuts weight where it brings the most benefit in terms of handling and responsiveness, namely at the greatest distance from the vehicle’s centre of gravity. Along with optimised frame member shapes, which helped trim additional grams, the Mazda CX-3 has one of the lightest bodies-in-white in its class.
Crash-resistant structures, meanwhile, utilise straight frame members whenever possible and a continuous framework that makes the individual sections function in harmony. One example is the rear suspension mounts. They employ a forked structure, connecting the damper top mount to the cross-member as well as the upper and lower sections of the liftgate opening. Another is the rear header on the liftgate opening, which is spot welded to create a closed section.
Noise Suppression
And to keep the interior quiet and enhance ride comfort, Mazda focused on blocking high-frequency noise paths into the cabin (e.g. from the tires and engine) and concentrating sound absorption where it has the greatest effect, for example on the panels, floor mats and seats. As a result, the CX-3 is on par with C-segment models when it comes to high-frequency noise.
Going to the source of vibration, Mazda’s engineers stifled unwanted movement by optimising the engine mounts and fine-tuning suspension and body stiffness.
The CX-3 is stylishly distinctive, yet retains the strong Mazda look. It is a vehicle that carries itself with style, with a long hood, short overhangs, large wheels and a slim cabin, presenting proportions that lend themselves to a sense of strength and vitality, conveying a sense of motion even when standing still.
Drivers Machine
The all-new Mazda CX-3 combines SUV ground clearance with the cornering and stability of a compact car. And this comes with in a SKYACTIV powered fuel-sipping front-wheel drive system.
Mazda aimed to achieve the predictable responsiveness to driver input in the CX-3 and natural Jinba Ittai driver-and-car-as-one feeling it strives for in every model. Mazda therefore specially refined the suspension, steering and brakes for the CX-3’s weight, powertrains and high centre of gravity.
The SKYACTIV-Chassis’s front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension was bolstered with stronger, firmer suspension bushings and retuned springs and shocks. The electric power-assisted steering, meanwhile, has a high steering gear ratio in the name of a better balance between steering feedback and vehicle response. Although this comes at the expense of the turning radius, the figure (5.3m kerb-to-kerb) still puts the CX-3 among the class leaders. Finally, the rear brakes received solid discs rather than drums to go with the ventilated front discs.
Class leading features include the i-STOP and the MZD CONNECT, the connectivity system equipped with the Human-Machine Interface (HMI), which pursues safety as its top priority. The CX-3 also comes with the Active Driving Display, the first head-up display in its class, just like the Mazda2.
Reasons To Buy
Mazda is confident that this latest addition to its family will go on to be a core model, bringing the brand into the hearts of a new generation of discerning car buyers. Even more so with Bermaz’s stress free ownership “3+3 Years Free Warranty and Maintenance” Programme, of which CX-3owners will be able to enjoy.
The Mazda CX-3 comes with sun roof and 18-inch sports rim. It will be available in 5 colour choices; Soul Red Metallic, Crystal White Pearl, Jet Black, Meteor Gray, and Deep Crystal Blue. Selling price is RM131,218.50 OTR without insurance.
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