The First-Ever Mazda CX-3, which goes on sale in late March, will offer a class-leading mix of model grades, performance and economy.

Mazda's newest nameplate, the First-Ever Mazda CX-3 will introduce two new grade names to Mazda'sTouring and the top of the range Akari.

Unlike many rivals in the hotly contested small SUV market, the First-Ever Mazda CX-3 will come with two engine types, a 2.0 litre SKYACTIV-G petrol or a 1.5 litre SKYACTIV-D diesel.

Offering unprecedented performance, the 2.0 litre petrol engine produces 109kW of power and 192Nm of torque and includes Drive Selection which allows a switch in drive modes. The 1.5 litre diesel alternative offers 77kW of power and 270Nm of torque.

Available in either Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and with a SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic or SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmission, the First-Ever Mazda CX-3 also includes the fuel efficient i-stop idling system.

The FWD 2.0 litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine with SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission sips from as little as 6.1 litres per 100 kilometres+é-¦, while the FWD 1.5 litre SKYACTIV-D diesel engine with SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission has fuel economy figures from a low 4.8 litres per 100 kilometres+é-¦.

Arriving in dealerships in just a few weeks, the CX-3 range+é-¦ has something special to offer all buyer types, including MZD Connect - Mazda's advanced car connectivity system - a seven-inch screen operated by a commander control, an Active Driving Display, satellite navigation and a range of i-ACTIVSENCE safety technologies.

Expressing Mazda's 'KODO - Soul of Motion' design language in its most stylish fashion, the First-Ever Mazda CX-3 adopts an image of strength and has a powerful sense of speed which flows across the entire body.

The interior is perhaps the most stunning, with a beautifully designed dash, centre console and instrument cluster incorporating an array of high quality materials including soft touch plastics and metallic-finish parts, while the doors include a stylish trim.

With a choice of 16 and 18 inch wheels and eight stylish colours, the First-Ever Mazda CX-3 will be the most complete small SUV nameplate on sale in Australia.

Mazda Australia director of marketing Alastair Doak said: "We are very happy with how the First-Ever Mazda CX-3 range is shaping up. We feel that with a wide range on offer, two engine and two transmission types, and in both front and all-wheel drive, we will have the small SUV market covered. I think buyers will enjoy the dynamic performance that Mazda is renowned for, the striking design and the impressive range of latest technology."

+é-¦ Combined fuel consumption figures based on ADR81/02 test results
+é-¦ Grade dependant

For further information, please contact:

Karla Leach
Senior Manager - Public Relations
T: (03) 8540 1931
F: (03) 8540 1960
M: 0448 346 213
E: kleach@mazda.com.au

Tony Mee
Public Relations Specialist
T: (03) 8540 1962
F: (03) 8540 1960
M: 0439 347 658
E: tmee@mazda.com.au