The Mazda3 was yesterday officially launched in Malta by Gasan.

Both the five-door hatchback and saloon versions introduce Mazda’s fresh approach to designing and building cars with the very best in Japanese manufacturing quality. The exterior appearance is designed to express movement combined with muscular solidity and stability and is another tangible expression of the “emotion of motion” concept that was also successfully evoked by the Mazda6, Mazda2 and RX-8.

A long wheelbase, short overhangs, large-diameter wheels and aggressively flared fenders give the Mazda3 an assertive presence, even when viewed from a distance. The solid exterior build quality is also apparent by excellent fit and finish and consistent shut lines between body panels and components.

Building on methods used to develop the flagship Mazda RX-8, the interior is far roomier than the sporty exterior indicates. It is sporty yet comfortable, with intelligent functionality and storage solutions so important to a vehicle in this segment.

The Mazda3 hatchback is available with two petrol engines, a 1.4-litre MZR with 83bhp, and a 1.6-litre MZR 103bhp, both part of a new range of quiet-running, in-line four-cylinder DOHC petrol engines that deliver ample low-end torque for spirited driving. A

new 1.6-litre common-rail diesel enhances the engine line up developing 107bhp. The saloon is available with the 1.6 petrol and 1.6 diesel engines.

The Mazda3 range is available in two specifications, S and TS. Airconditioning, ABS with EBD, emergency brake assist, halogen headlamps, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking and alarm are among the standard features of the S versions. The TS also adds more specifications, such as alloy wheels, curtain airbags to the front and rear and steering wheel controls practically leaving no optional extras.

The 1.4S hatchback starts from Lm7,990.