Mazda Mazda 3 Facelift 2006 Pictures

Mazda Mazda 3 Facelift 2006 Pictures High Res

                     

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Mazda 3 Face-lift 2006

If you’re lines don’t give you away, will it be your resistance to innovation? The car industry certainly doesn’t stay still for long and just three years since the first Mazda 3, its facelift was due.

Strange that it should be called a face-lift as the design is pretty much the same. Rather than going all Jordan on us though, they’ve kept the looks quite Posh and subtle. There’s a more clean cut separation between the bumper and bonnet and the rear bumper press lines have also seen minor work as well as the reflectors now being closer to the recess of the number plate. Black bezels for the rear lamps add a sporty touch while also contrasting to the exterior body colour, of which there are seven new hues. Then there’s the alloys which are a real give away in terms of style. Like your choice of watch, quality is important if you want to convey the right message. With this in mind its no wonder Mazda has brought out a whole new set of designs for each wheel size.

If you can’t wait until the MPS model arrives then you can imitate its looks by investing in a Sports Appearance Package which is available for both the sedan and hatchback models. The package includes 17” wheels, new angular headlamps, side skirts and a rear spoiler.

Even on the standard models, Mazda has set the benchmark pretty high; the interior fabrics, design and over all feel of the cabin has a real pride about it, especially the 2.0litre sports model we drove. The quality black leather seats and grippy wheel blend well with the piano black finish, large 3-dimensional black out style dials and bright silver edging. Each element brought together creates a rather invigorating ambience which is a real selling point for the 3.

Interestingly enough Mazda pay a lot of attention to the stimulus of emotion and the way a car can make you feel psychologically. They even employ a Dean of Hiroshima International University to analyse how people react to certain materials and the properties of a car. So next time you get in a Mazda and feel all overcome with excitement and enthusiasm, remember you have been warned.

But if having a machine that is deeper than your average person isn’t enough to impress you then how about its modern convenience features? Keyless entry saves you awkwardly fumbling through your pockets and handily the credit card style alternative fits snugly in to your wallet. The revised 3 also has a seven-speaker Bose stereo with a hard disk capable of storing up to 3,000 songs.

The engine choices remain the same although the fuel economy and aerodynamics have been improved. Topping the list you’ve got an MZR 2.0litre petrol model producing 148bhp, this model also benefits from a new six speed manual transmission, cruise control, electronic throttle, and sequential valve timing. The peak torque now kicks in earlier which is much more practical for every day driving conditions. Completing the MZR petrol line-up is a 1.6litre 95bhp version as well as the entry level 1.4litre 76bhp model which is only available as a hatchback. The two diesel models are an MZ-CD 1.6litre common-rail turbo diesel producing a standard power of 82bhp or a higher powered version capable of 99bhp.

The 2.0litre petrol model fared well on Sardinia’s corkscrew mountain roads, the steering was firm and well centred and its mid-range torque was useful for overtaking manoeuvres. Although the heat, frequency of gear changes and braking can all be pretty punishing, the 3 took it in its stride. Its solid chassis and fluent lines make you feel at ease and cruising along the motorway proves it has high speed stability and refinement. The ride quality is well cushioned over untended tarmac and there`s plenty of space for passengers to spread out on long journeys.

The Mazda 3 may not be the model that bowls you off your feet just by looking at it but once you get closer you’ll realise its integral beauty is skin deep.

Verdict

FOR: Favourable dynamics, built quality, swish interior, spacious and theres also a copious choice of specs and style

AGAINST: Although its looks are pleasingly symmetrical and it has been enhanced with some subtle sporty touches, it is not quite as aggressive looking as other superminis

CONCLUSION: It’s a great car undoubtedly; the way it drives, the way it feels, but in terms of appealing to the real performance orientated enthusiasts we’re thinking the forthcoming Mazda 3 MPS will be the model to really stunt the competition

Spec
ENGINE: 2.0litre Sport , In-line four cylinder DOHC 16 valve
Co2 (g/km)/tax: 196 g/km/-
POWER: 148bhp @ 6,500rpm
TORQUE (lb/ft): 187Nm @ 4,000
0-62mph (sec): 9.0
TOP SPEED: 126mph
MPG: /-/-/8.2l/100 km (urban/extra-urban/combined)
TRANSMISSION: Six speed transmission
SUSPENSION: Front: Independent strut type, Rear: independent multilink
BRAKES: Front: ventilated discs, Rear: Solid discs
WHEELS: 16 x 6.5 J Alloys
TYRES: Bridgestone 205/55R16 91V
PRICE: £16,330
RIVALS: Ford Focus, VW Golf, BMW 1 series, Honda Civic, Seat Leon, Vauxhall Astra, Renault Megane, Citroen C4