Japanese manufacturer Mazda has introduced a new version of its 1.6-litre diesel engine to its Mazda3 range, a model that accounts for almost 48 per cent of its sales here.
The new engine features increased power output to 115bhp and a slight reduction in emissions to 117g/km, although the outgoing version was already in the lowest tax band.
Perhaps the biggest difference is the addition of a six-speed transmission, which allows for better fuel consumption during long-range motorway driving.
The 0-100km/h sprint takes 11 seconds and the top speed is 186km/h. While the new engine never seems particularly urgent and you can feel that the gearing is very much in the direction of economy, the car is still a pleasant place to be, with upgrades to the interior improving an already successful formula.
Mazda remains a relatively small player in the mainstream market, with a 2.6 per cent share, meaning many still fail to register the brand in their new car shopping list.
According to a spokesman for the brand here: “Naturally we aim to grow the brand in Ireland. However, we want to grow the business in a sustainable fashion. We need to grow in a profitable manner in order for the Mazda franchise to deliver for our business partners, the Mazda dealer, and ultimately for the company.”
The hope must be that models like the Mazda3, which makes up 48 per cent of the brand’s overall sales, can garner a greater foothold on the roads and in the considerations of buyers. It certainly deserves more consideration than it gets.
For the updated 1.6-litre diesel version next year, Executive specification now gets some additional equipment thrown in as standard. You get dynamic stability control, traction control, air conditioning, 15-inch alloy wheels, an auxiliary input for MP3 players, electric windows, steering wheel audio controls, a leather steering wheel and gear knob – and now you get Bluetooth and cruise control on all models, apart from the entry-grade Comfort.
Prices for the new 1.6-litre diesel version start at €21,295 for the five-door Comfort model, €21,995 for the popular Executive model, and €22,995 for the 1.6D five-door Sport. If you prefer a saloon, which 60 per cent of Irish buyers do, then the starting price is €22,495 for the Executive spec and €23,495 for the Sport model. The new model will be available in time for January.