The big news for 2025 is the dropping of sedans in the Mazda3 line-up and retention of the hatches. There are four models. The styling and cabin are little changed.
With over 33,000 Mazda3s selling to New Zealand customers over four generations, the Mazda3 has proven popular amongst Kiwis for over 20 years.
The current Kodo design offers a sophisticated and athletic look for the Mazda3. It conveys a sense of “anticipation and energy that creates a strong emotional appeal”.
At under $40k, the range opens with the Mazda3 GSX ($38,890 plus ORCs). Mazda says the GSX offers “compelling value along with high levels of technology and safety.”
Included in the base model are a head-up display, a seven-inch TFT display within the instrument cluster, and cylinder deactivation technology for the 2.0 litre SkyActiv-G petrol engine. It is good for 114kW and 200 Nm and consumes fuel at a claimed overall rate of 6.6L/100km (153g/km).
The next two models feature the SkyActive G 2.5L IL4. Mazda3 SP25 ($42,990 plus ORCs) supersedes the previous GTX. Output figures of 139kW and 252Nm are produced while it is said to achieve an overall fuel economy figure of 7.3L/100km (CO2 of 171g/km). Spec runs to 18-inch alloys in gloss black to match the mirror caps and other dark exterior accents. Red stitching adorns the interior trim.
Also running the 2.5 mill is the Mazda3 Homura which replaces the Limited model. At $51,490 plus ORCs, it comes with an electric sunroof and adaptive LED headlights. Inside are leather upholstery with heated and electrically adjustable seats, a Bose 12-speaker audio system, and a 360-degree surround view camera.
The $54,490 Tamaki heads the 2025 Mazda3 range, featuring the SkyActiv-X M Hybrid engine. With its Spark Controlled Compression Ignition system (SPCCI), the Mazda3 Takami makes 132kW of power and 224Nm of torque. However, it produces fewer emissions than a comparable 2.0 petrol engine (6.1L/100km and 150g/km.
Mazda3 Takami comes standard with a burgundy red leather interior. All New Zealand-new Mazdas carry a five-year/unlimited km warranty, with free scheduled servicing in that period.
