Mazda3 5dr Hatchback Spied.... by Mazda

Mazda has just debuted the all-new Mazda3 sedan and now the company has also released "spy" pictures of the hatch version, which have been taken by Mazda itself during testing. The hatchback is due for public unveiling at the 2008 Bologna Motor Show from 3rd December.

This second-generation Mazda3 sedan made its world debut at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show and seems to have wowed the motoring world with its more aggressive look. A clear Mazda by design, it shows a grille that seems to smile wider, and lines that follow Mazda's flying bird emblem.

Two body styles, namely a 3-door and a 5-door will be available at market launch, and performance is improved. At the base level the US market will get the 148bhp 2.0-litre four cylinder, but now Mazda6's 2.5-litre has been used in the Mazda3 too. It produces 167bhp and 168 ft-lb torque in the sportier Mazda3 S.

Not much has been done on the chassis side of things since the previous Mazda3 was already a stellar handler. To this effect subtlety has been applied in dealing with the suspension tuning. Steering feel has been improved, resistance to body roll increased while more stiffness has been applied on the front lower control arms, subframe and mount bushings.

Prices for the new Mazda3 range are expected to be announced soon.