Mazda South Africa is turning into something of a success story with a successful split from Ford in late 2014, and a range of impressive, if underrated products. This year, the local arm of the Japanese manufacturer managed to bring to market the very impressive CX-5 medium-sized SUV, the suave Mazda2 hatchback, the Mazda3 sedan and hatch as well as the Mazda6 sedan. And as if to squeeze as much as possible in before year end, the new MX-5 and CX-3 Crossover have just landed on our shores.
Built to take on the likes of Ford's EcoSport, the Renault Captur and Honda's new HR-V, among others, the new Mazda CX-3 compact SUV is instantly recognisable as something originating from the Mazda family, clearly resembling a shrunken CX-5. Which is no bad thing by the way.
Taking design inspiration from the rest of the Mazda range, the CX-3 also features Mazda's new corporate styling, dubbed KODO - Soul of Motion. SKYACTIV technology is also a strong focus and for those still unsure what it actually means, SKYACTIV is the company's all-encompassing philosophy of redesigning and engineering every component of their cars - from the structure to engines and gearboxes - to be both environmentally friendly, efficient and more entertaining to drive.
Probably the most notable effect of SKYACTIV is Mazda's philosophy of eschewing the costly development of re-engineering an entirely new range of smaller capacity (the current trend) and rather sticking with the current range of engines, but choosing to spend resources optimising those engines in every way possible.
The result is that the CX-3 range is powered by a single engine option, a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol unit developing 115kW and 204Nm of torque. Available in three trim levels; Active, Dynamic and Individual, even the entry level Active model is comprehensively equipped.
Priced at R254 900.00 the Mazda CX-3 2.0L Active's standard specification list includes Bluetooth connectivity, alarm system, cruise control, halogen headlights, hill launch assist, manual air-conditioning, power fold mirrors, 16" alloy wheels, height adjustable drivers seat, and cloth upholstery. Available in either 6-speed manual or automatic, the latter benefits from stop/start technology (i-STOP) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). (6-speed auto is yours for R270 400.00.)
The pick of the range is undoubtedly the 2.0L Dynamic model - also available in 6-speed manual or automatic - which manages to blend a healthy mix of additional features yet is priced under the magical R300 000.00 price point at R277 900.00. Additional features include 6 speakers as opposed to 4 on the Active model, auto headlights, climate control, front fog lamps, leather steering wheel, gear lever, and handbrake, i-STOP, Mazda connect with commander, rear parking sensors, rain sensing wipers, and sunglass holder. Again, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard on the auto model which is yours for R288 400.00.
As the halo model in the range, the 2.0L Individual is only available in 6-speed automatic guise and will set you back R325 900.00. As you'd expect, in Individual trim this CX-3 is equipped with almost every optional extra you could want. Over and above what is fitted standard to the Active and Dynamic models, for your extra spend, you receive a 7 speaker Bose sound system, head-up display (HUD), part leather part cloth seat upholstery, LED headlights, satellite Navigation, power sliding and tilt glass sunroof, rear park assist camera, and 18" alloy wheels.
The Best-Selling Roadster, Ever - All New
The brief was simple 25 years ago, create a simple fun-to-drive rear wheel drive roadster, with as much power, a manual gearbox, and uncomplicated (manual) folding roof.
Even now, in its fourth generation, Mazda hasn't tampered with this winning formula, and in 2015, the all-new MX-5 retains its purist heritage whilst simultaneously being better in every aspect.
Not happy with a mere make-over, 2015 MX-5 is indeed all-new, from the engine, and bodywork to suspension and chassis, everything has had a thorough redesign, and it can boast to having lost a healthy 100kg over its predecessor. It's also 105mm shorter too.
The revised interior might not seem like a dramatic departure from the previous model - such is the SKYACTIV philosophy after all - but promises increased levels of comfort and ergonomics with a cockpit centered around the driver.
Smart looking sports seats feature black leather with contrasting red stitching with rest of the cabin benefitting from a dramatic increase in the quality of materials and plastics used.
Mazda's latest connected technology is present in the new MX-5 allowing customers to pair their smartphones via Bluetooth and operate functions - via the rotary controller or voice prompts - such as music streaming and text message send/receive and email readout and reply. A nine-speaker BOSE sound system specifically designed for open-top driving is also standard fitment.
Speaking of open-top driving, the new MX-5 stays true to its roots by fitting a simple manual folding soft-top rather than a complicated and heavy folding metal roof.
Under the bonnet, you'll find the familiar 4-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engine developing 118kW and 200Nm of torque. Agreed, it might not sound like much on paper, but considering it weighs just over a tonne, those outputs translate to an impressive real-world turn of speed. But then, the MX-5 has never been about dramatic 0-100km/h times or enormous top speeds has it?
No, the MX-5 has and always will offer its owner a level of driver involvement, and simple connectedness with the road. The MX-5 will always be a collective success based its ability to be both old school in feel, yet new school in application.
Owners won't want for anything in terms of standard equipment either, with the new MX-5 featuring a long list features. Advanced keyless entry with push-button engine start, front, driver and passenger, and side airbags, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio connectivity, climate control, cruise control, LED daytime running lamps and headlights with auto on/off, Hill Launch Assist (HLA), i-Stop stop/start technology, leather seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel, handbrake handle and gearshift knob, a limited slip differential, rain-sensing wipers, 7-inch touchscreen display (MZD Connect) and 17-inch alloy wheels are all standard fare.
The new MX-5 2.0L Roadster Coupe 6-Speed manual costs R389 800.00 and is is backed up by a 3-year unlimited kilometre factory warranty as well as 3-year roadside assistance, a 3-year service plan and a 5-year corrosion warranty.
