The Mazda3 sports version, currently only unveiled as a concept, is expected to be produced commercially to rival the Honda Civic Type R.
Mazda showcased two new sports concept cars at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 exhibition in Japan. One of the notable concepts is based on the Mazda3 Hatchback, known as the Mazda Spirit Racing 3 Concept.
Compared to the standard version, the Mazda Spirit Racing 3 Concept has a more aggressive and sporty appearance. This is achieved by dressing the concept car in a concrete gray color and equipping it with a black exterior body kit, including a large front air dam, side air dams, and a rear air dam.
Furthermore, the Mazda Spirit Racing 3 Concept features red decorative details on the front spoiler, mirror housings, and brake calipers.
The sportiness of the Mazda Spirit Racing 3 Concept is further enhanced by black accent lines on the hood, roof, and trunk. The concept car is also distinguished by the Mazda Spirit Racing decal on the front door and hood.
Inside, the Mazda Spirit Racing 3 Concept boasts a sporty and robust style, featuring leather sports seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The cabin also showcases red stitching on the dashboard, center console, and seats. Additionally, the 12 o’clock marking on the steering wheel and the seatbelts are highlighted in red.
As for convenience features, the Mazda Spirit Racing 3 Concept is expected to offer similar features to those available in the current market. In Mazda’s home country, the Mazda3 is equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display that supports wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Qi wireless charging, and an integrated USB Type-C port with an illuminated light. Moreover, there is a remote engine start function accessible via the MyMazda app on a smartphone.
Regarding powertrain, it is likely that the Mazda Spirit Racing 3 Concept will retain the same engine options as the standard Mazda3. The Japanese market currently offers four engine options for the Mazda3, namely the SkyActiv-G 1.5L gasoline engine, SkyActiv-D 1.8L diesel engine, e-SkyActiv X mild hybrid system, and e-SkyActiv G 2.0 mild hybrid system.
Among them, the e-SkyActiv G 2.0 is equipped with a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder gasoline engine, direct fuel injection, and a displacement of 2.0L. It also features an electric motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline engine generates a maximum power of 156 horsepower and a peak torque of 199 Nm, while the electric motor adds a maximum power of 6.9 horsepower and a peak torque of 49 Nm to the car.
Additionally, the Mazda3 is equipped with notable features such as upgraded speed control with pedestrian detection and an upgraded driver monitoring system with a distraction warning feature.
According to a representative from Mazda, the Spirit Racing 3 Concept will have a commercial version available in the market.
TT (Tuoitrethudo)