2009 Mazda 3 hatchback unveiled ahead of Bologna

Mazda has today released the first pictures of the new Mazda 3 hatchback, ahead of the Bologna Motor Show on December 3rd.

The pictures come hot on the heels of the recently announced saloon and, just like the saloon, the Mazda 3 hatchback is a much fresher design, with far more sporty pretensions.

One of the big aims for Mazda with the 3 was, of course, a much more economical car without sacrificing the old model’s strengths. Mazda has achieved this by the use of much more economical engines and sector-leading aerodynamics.

The New Mazda 3 Hatchback

They’ve even played with the Catalytic Converter, which is made using something called single nanotechnology (that’ll please Prince Charles – he expects the world to be finished by Grey Goo from nanotechnology at any point – he may be right!) instead of the usually platinum.

There’s a choice of 2 diesel and 2 petrol engines at launch, with an option on the bigger diesel (2.2L) of a higher-power version.

Mazda make very under-rated cars. This one will be a good ‘un. More details once we get our hands on one.

By Cars UK