Mazda3 receives spec enhancements

Mazda has announced a range of specification enhancements for the Mazda 3 line, building on the qualities that have made it so popular in Europe.

The Mazda3 TS has now been replaced by the Takara. Available as either a four-door saloon or five-door hatchback, it is powered by a 105ps 1.6-litre petrol or 1.6-litre 109ps diesel engine.

Other differences between the newer model and its predecessor include a front sports bumper, rear spoiler, front fog lights and 16-inch alloy wheels for enhanced exterior styling.

As for the interior, the Takara gets rear electric windows with global closure, six CD auto-changer, leather steering wheel and gear knob, trip computer, illuminated vanity mirrors, piano black centre console and two tone black/red interior trim.

The new model has been given a small price increase (£145), making the OTR price £13,495. An extra £1,000 will buy a Takara with automatic transmission.

The new Mazda3 1.6 Sport comes with only one engine variant - the 105ps 1.6-litre petrol - offering a choice of either four-door saloon or five-door hatchback. Exterior visual enhancements include a sports styling kit with front and rear sports bumper, side skirts, rear spoiler, chrome exhaust and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Safety improvements include xenon headlights with automatic washers, rear combination lamps with LED rear lights, rain-sensing wipers and auto lights.

Interior benefits range from a premium Bose audio system with seven speakers, blackout metres, black trim with red stitching and privacy glass. Prices begin at £15,205.

The Mazda3 2.0 Sport, powered by the responsive 150ps petrol or 143ps diesel engine, now features leather seats as standard and is available in a four or five-door petrol model or as a five-door diesel. Prices start at £16,605 OTR.