Cape Town - The Mazda3 has received a facelift for the 2016, with G-Vectoring Control (GVC), the first innovation from this series, the automaker says.
The system controls engine torque based on steering and acceleration inputs for, Mazda says, "improved handling around corners." G-Vectoring Control will be fitted to future Mazda models.
Enhanced line-up
The model range has been enhanced with the addition of the Mazda3 2.0-litre Astina Plus. Available in four-door and five-door, the new Astina Plus is equipped with advanced safety features that include smart city brake support, adaptive LED headlights, lane keep assist, lane-departure warning, driver attention alert and blind sport monitoring, which is also available on the Astina derivative.
Gallery: 2016 Mazda3
Interior enhancements include Bluetooth for entry models, standard cruise control for Individual-specced models and the introduction of auto shift switch (paddle-shifts) for units equipped with a six-speed auto.
Refreshed exterior
The Mazda badge now sits slightly lower than the current model, it has redesigned fog lights, alloy wheels and side skirts. The rear also has new styling tweaks and there are also new exterior colours, namely: Eternal Blue Mica, Sonic Silver Metallic, Soul Red Metallic and Machine Gray Metallic.
Model Line-up and prices:
Mazda3 1.6L Original Manual 4Dr/5Dr - R253 400 / R258 900
• Power figures: 77kW/144Nm
• Power Windows
• Air-conditioning
• Instrument panel light dimmer
• Cloth trim
• Trip computer
• One touch window for driver
• Audio controls on steering wheel
• Radio / CD / AUX / USB
• Bluetooth
• 4 speakers
• Seat-belt warning (Front)
• 3-pt seatbelts for all seats
• ISOFix
• Rear folding seats (60:40) (Hatch only)
• R16 Steel wheels
• 6 airbags ABS / EBD / EBA
• Remote central locking
• Keyless start
• Tilt & telescopic steering adjustment
Mazda3 1.6L Active Manual 4Dr/5Dr - R266 300 / R271 800
• Front LED fog lamps
• Map reading spot lamps
• 6 speakers
• Overhead sunglass storage
• R16 Alloys Wheels
• Illuminated vanity mirrors
• 7-inch display MZD connect system
Mazda3 1.6L Dynamic Manual 4Dr/5Dr - R279 400 / R284 900
Auto 1.6L - R290 400 / R295 900
• Auto on/off headlights
• Leather handbrake handle
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Power fold mirrors
• Leather steering wheel
• Rear Spoiler (Sedan)
• Auto Dimming Rear-view mirror
• Leather Gearshift Selector
• Leather Seats
Mazda3 2.0L Individual Manual 4Dr/5Dr - R326 400 / R331 900
Auto 2.0L - R338 400 / R343 900
• Maximum power: 121kW
• Maximum torque: 210Nm
• Advanced keyless entry
• Dynamic Stability Control
• Hill Launch Assist
• G-Vectoring Control
• Power sliding and tilt glass sunroof
• i-stop
• Cruise Control
• Auto Shift Switch / Paddle-shift (Auto models only)
Mazda3 2.0 Astina Auto 4Dr/5Dr - R372 900 / R378 400
• Reverse Camera
• Integrated Navigation
• Active Driving Display
• Power Lumber Support (Driver Only)
• BOSE Sound System
• 9 Speakers
• Dual-zone Climate Control
• 8-way Power Adjusting Seat (Driver Only)
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Analog Tachometer
• Parking Sensors (Rear)
• R18 Alloy Wheels
Mazda3 2.0 Astina Plus Auto 4Dr/5Dr - R402 400 / R407 900
• Adaptive LED Headlights
• Daytime Running Lights
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keep Assist System
• Smart City Brake Support (Front and Rear)
• Driver Attention Alert
A three-year or unlimited kilometre factory warranty, a three-year roadside assistance, a three-year service plan and a five-year Corrosion Warranty are also included.