-- Enhanced Design, Quality, Comfort and Performance Highlight Updated Model --

New York - Mazda Motor Corporation today unveiled an updated and revised version of the Mazda3 and Mazda3 Sport at the 2006 Greater New York International Auto Show. Mazda3 is the company’s best-selling vehicle in North America, and has been a hit with both customers and media alike.

When Mazda3 launched in Spring 2003, it forced customers to rethink what was possible in a C-segment vehicle, as it offered exhilarating driving performance, emotional styling and high levels of craftsmanship never before seen in this price and size class. The revised model takes these attributes to a new level, offering already improved torque characteristics, exterior styling enhancements and fit-and-finish and interior trim revisions.

TWO BODY STYLES, TWO PERSONALITIES
Both the Mazda3 (sedan) and Mazda3 Sport (hatchback) have a more athletic
look: the Mazda3 promotes a feeling of stability, while the Mazda3 Sport is the sportiest model in the Mazda3 lineup and exudes a youthful personality.

Common features for both the Mazda3 GT trim and Mazda3 Sport include a body-colour front grille and a redesigned front bumper with square fog lamps. The Mazda3 GT now employs LED Hanabi-style lights for the rear combination lamps. In addition, 16- and 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels on both models have been redesigned to both accentuate the aluminum alloy look and convey an image of stability.

INTERIOR DESIGN
Particular attention was paid to revising interior quality on all models. The Mazda3 GX and GS models feature two interior colors: beige and black.
Both interior color packages receive newly designed white gauges and a zebra-striped wood-finish dash trim. The Mazda3 GT and Mazda3 Sport models feature black interior with a carbon-like finish on the centre panel; and blackout-type gauges include a decorative insert finished with a hairline treatment in the dash. Leather seating surfaces are available as an option for all GT models, and new for 2007 on select exterior colors is a grey cloth interior. Black cloth continues to be available on other exterior colours.

MATURED POWERTRAIN LINE UP
The engine lineup for the Mazda3 continues to be the MZR 2.0-liter for Mazda3 GX and GS models and MZR 2.3-liter on Mazda3 GT and Mazda3 Sport models. All horsepower ratings are now compliant with new SAE measuring standards, with the 2.0-liter engine producing 150 hp at 6,500 rpm* and maximum torque of 135 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm*. The 2.3-liter engine - produces 160 hp of maximum power at 6,500 rpm* and maximum torque of 150 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm*.

Both 2.0- and 2.3-liter engines continue to employ a high-accuracy electronic throttle control, along with sequential valve timing (S VT). Optimal adjustment of the engine's intake valve operation in response to running conditions achieves high charging efficiency. Together with a variable induction system (VIS), this allows the engine to achieve powerful torque throughout the whole rev range.

A five-speed manual transmission remains standard on all models. Also carrying-over is the availability of Sport mode automatic transmissions for the both the 2.0-liter (four-speed) and 2.3-liter (five-speed) and both have functions that allow the driver to sequentially shift gears up or down.

FURTHER EVOLUTION OF MAZDA3’S ACCLAIMED BODY AND CHASSIS
Mazda3’s body shell has been upgraded by bolstering local rigidity. Front suspension mountings are joined to the fender frame by brackets, and the number 1 tunnel member connecting the transmission tunnel on the body’s underside now extends to the left and right frame side members. These arrangements result in an even stiffer, safer body and even sportier handling and ride control.

The MacPherson strut front suspension has improved damper performance and has been tuned to improve steering response and reduce understeer. The multi-link rear suspension receives the same performance revisions, ensuring improved rear end stability during high speed cornering. In addition, the revised bumpers mean superior aerodynamics contribute to better fuel economy, improved high speed acceleration and better overall stability.

NEW INTERIOR FEATURES
Both the Mazda3 and Mazda3 Sport now have upgraded audio systems with auxiliary audio input and 12-volt power outlets standard for all models, providing the driver or passenger the option of bringing their own portable audio player to enjoy their favourite music in the car.

The Mazda3 has newly added rear armrests with integrated cup holders for rear seat occupants on the GS and GT models. Rear cargo space side and end trim have also been modified on the Mazda3 to allow large loads to be loaded with ease. A trunk lid recess on top of the bumper has been added to make it easier to open the trunk lid.

HIGH LEVELS OF SAFETY
Unchanged – but still class-leading – four wheel disc brakes with ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear form the basis for a comprehensive active safety system. Four-wheel ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) with brake assist are standard on all models.

Passive safety systems feature a rigid body shell that provides exceptional collision safety. For occupant protection, front dual airbags, side airbags and side curtain airbags are standard. In addition, impact absorbing trim on the steering column minimizes injury to the driver’s knees and a collapsible brake pedal helps reduce the risk of lower leg injury in the event of a frontal collision.

* Mazda target values subject to change upon homologation (Mazda Canada)