As a sedan or as a hatchback, the Mazda3 has been a very popular choice for several years now. For the 2013 model year, this little Japanese winner has come up with some small changes.


Accommodating up to five passengers, there are 3 versions of the sedan, namely the GX, the GS-SKY and the GT. Depending on what version you opt for, you’ll get a standard 5-speed (GX) or 6-speed (GS-SKY, GT) manual gearbox, while an automatic transmission is available as an option.

The four-cylinder engines also vary according to the preferred model you want: the GX features a 2.0L producing 148 hp (8.1/5.9 L/100km, city/highway), the GS-SKY comes with the 2.0L, 155-hp SKYACTIV-G (7.7/5.0 L/100km for the sedan, 7.6/5.1 for the Sport), and finally, the GT gets the 2.5L, 167-hp engine (10.2/6.9 L/100km).

The GS-SKY comes with the 2.0L, 155-hp SKYACTIV-G (7.7/5.0 L/100km for the sedan, 7.6/5.1 for the Sport). (Photo: Mazda)

Available in eight colours, the 2013 Mazda3 takes advantage of a wide range of standard equipment, in particular a sound system USB port, new this year and available in all 3 trim levels. Options include alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, a voice command system and cruise control.

The GS-L package, for its part, offers fog lights, leather upholstery and an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat. The Touring package pampers you with push-button ignition, a rear spoiler and a 10-speaker BOSE sound system. Finally, the GT version features blind-spot monitoring, satellite radio and push-button ignition, among other goodies. Competition will be strongest for the sedan, which joins battle against the Honda Civic, the new Dodge Dart and the Chevrolet Cruze, to name a few.

For its part, the sporty MAZDASPEED3 won’t be outdone, taking full advantage of its 2.3L, 263-hp turbo engine. Combined with the 6-speed manual transmission, it can reach 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds and hit an electronically-limited maximum speed of 250 km/h. As for fuel consumption ratings, the MAZDASPEED3 will deliver 11.5L/100km in the city and 8.0 on the highway.

This sporty little number also benefits from new standard equipment in 2013. Included are a USB port, 18-inch wheels with gunmetal finish as well as side mirrors and rear lower valance all featuring a black finish. Plus, the Technology Package adds blind-spot monitoring, intelligent unlocking, push-button ignition and satellite radio, among others.

As for fuel consumption ratings, the MAZDASPEED3 will deliver 11.5L/100km in the city and 8.0 on the highway. (Photo: Mazda)

The 2013 Mazdaspeed3 competes against the likes of the Ford Focus ST, Volkswagen Golf GTI and Subaru Impreza WRX. Launch dates have not yet been confirmed by the manufacturer, nor have prices for the various models.