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Los Angeles 2018: 10 Best Picks from the Car Show

2020 Jeep Gladiator | Photo: B.Charette
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Benoit Charette
Our intrepid Benoit Charette chooses his 10 favourites at a show packed with new models!

Mazda3

In this SUV-dominated world it’s always nice to see there are still sedans being produced. And frankly, Mazda has hit it out of the park with its new Mazda3. The bold styling gives it a small-luxury-car vibe, and the silhouette of the hatchback version sets it wonderfully apart from all the other cars vying in this segment.

Two significant additions are worthy of note. First, Mazda will be offering all-wheel-drive technology on its new Mazda3. The system is borrowed from the CX-5, and it will be available toward the end of 2019. Second, the latest-generation SKYACTIV-x engine joins the roster in addition to the SKYACTIV-G engine. In its 2.0L version, the SKYACTIV-X will produce 176 hp, while the 2.5L unit will generate 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. Mazda will be also offer a 2.0L base engine for those not so much in need of that extra pop.

No pricing has yet been announced for any of the new Mazda3 versions. Stay tuned…

Photo gallery of the Mazda3 Sedan

Photo gallery of the Mazda3 Hatchback

2019 Mazda3
2019 Mazda3 | Photo: Mazda
2019 Mazda3
2019 Mazda3 | Photo: Mazda
Benoit Charette
Benoit Charette
Automotive expert
  • More than 30 years of experience as an automotive journalist
  • More than 65 test drives last year
  • Attended more than 200 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists