Euro influence. The 2008 Mazda 3 1.6L S still retains the overall C1 medium exterior-design platform shared by both the current Ford Focus and the current Volvo S40, but has a few detailed changes, such as a new single-slat grille.

WHEN the Mazda 3 was first introduced locally three years ago, it was a sales hit due to its revolutionary exterior design. But the competition has caught up significantly, propping Mazda to launch an upgraded version in June. But does it have enough on all fronts to make customers look past the Honda Civic, the Toyota Corolla and even its Ford Focus cousin?

The test unit (a base model 1.6L S) shows very little has changed in the overall design from the original C1 platform shared by both the current Focus and the current Volvo S40. However, there are a few subtle yet nifty changes to the outside, such as new front and rear bumpers, taillights “borrowed” from the previous model 2.0-liter, a single-slat grille inspired by that of the previous model 2.0-liter, and a more pronounced ridge atop the rear bumper for easier access to the trunk lid.

Little has also changed in the interior. The predominantly black interior colorway, the upscale overall design and layout (with a uniquely “Euro” presence) and smattering of metallic trim are retained, resulting in a nice look, but lacking in panache. Also retained is the 60/40 split (not flush) rear seat, glove box, four cup holders in front (two in the doors, two in front of the center console) and the two cup holders in the rear doors. The instrumentation cluster still gets the layout and chrome trim of the previous model, but totes a white-on-red look that displays a cool blue light during night driving. To be honest, it’s a great upgrade, but it would have been better if Mazda had stuck to the previous model’s black-on-red dashboard gauge look.

Two major interior enhancements are the seating and the audio entertainment. The former now totes full cloth on both the seats and the door linings, which dissipate heat much faster than the leather-cloth combo of the previous model. Unfortunately, the rear seats still feel a bit hard on the lumbar area, but give great lateral room for two. On the other hand, the MP3-ready sound system is much improved. Gone is the tinny sound in favor of better tonal clarity, but treble replication was found wanting. The steering wheel audio controls on the nine o’clock side position were retained—a big plus in helping the driver concentrate more on what’s ahead.

On the road, the “3” is a big disappointment. Powerband entry is high (2,750 to 3,000 rpm onward). The automatic four forward gear setup is retained, and tends to downshift at inopportune times, such as on the apex of crests. Using the manual mode is not much help either, as a really short second gear and a very tall third gear make emergency lane changes ingratiating. Top speed is typical of an inline four cylinder (181 kph), but the 8-km-per-liter consumption rate registered on four days of mixed driving is a bit of an improvement from the old Mazda 3.

Handling is improved, but not by much despite the 3’s suspension component additions (an improved MacPherson front setup and an E-type multilink rear setup), no thanks to the awful grip from the OE tires (Goodyear Eagle NCT 5s). Steering is heavy but manageable, but braking ability is excellent, the side mirrors are large, the headlights now tote high-intensity discharge units (a big plus) that turn on in tandem with the fog lights and the ride is firm. However, the handbrake position was still retained from the old model (near the passenger side), which can be intrusive to your shotgun passenger. 

Two complaints about the previous Mazda 3 were the archaic, door handle receptacle-incorporated power locks and the nauseating smell from the aircon during the first 30 seconds of use. With the 2008 model, the former is still retained. On the other hand, the aircon no longer makes occupants dizzy and provides more than ample blasts of cold air.

Despite its quirks, the Mazda 3 can still be considered a top-line option in a primarily looks-driven market. But for the unit’s sales to rival that of the Civic and the Corolla, serious engine, transmission, handling (and perhaps interior styling) upgrades must be addressed.

FASHION and breakthroughs in safety technology in one ride.

That in a capsule was the essence of the new scooter model Suzuki introduced during an elaborate launching last week at the Dusit Hotel Nikko in Makati City.

WHEN the Mazda 3 was first introduced locally three years ago, it was a sales hit due to its revolutionary exterior design. But the competition has caught up significantly, propping Mazda to launch an upgraded version in June. But does it have enough on all fronts to make customers look past the Honda Civic, the Toyota Corolla and even its Ford Focus cousin?

THIS year’s prestigious red dot award for Design Team of the Year has been awarded to the BMW Group for excellence in product design. The BMW Group was honored by an international jury for outstanding contribution to the design industry at the gala awards ceremony on June 26 at the Essen Opera House, the Aalto Theatre (named after Finnish designer and architect Alvar Aalto).

MOTOR Image Pilipinas, exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Southeast Asia, is marking its first year of operation in the Philippines by offering special financing package deals to all new Subaru customers.

I CAN’T help but share with you this very interesting short article which could possibly lead to better driving if all motorists would follow the tips enumerated in it. Read on and tell me if this also happens to you.