The Upcoming Mazda3 May Not Actually Be a Mazda | Carscoops
Mazda's recent collaboration with Deepal could indicate the electrification of the Mazda3, suggesting significant changes for the brand's compact lineup.
Mazda might replace the Mazda3 with an electric model manufactured in China for certain markets.
Trademark applications for the Mazda3e imply a model based on Deepal under Changan.
The sedan could become larger, featuring enhanced technology, additional screens, and more upscale elements.
While Mazda has been busy enhancing its lineup of straight-six-powered SUVs, focusing on its larger and more profitable vehicles, the rest of its offerings have been somewhat neglected.
Other than the updated CX-5 and a few EVs sourced from China, there hasn't been much development in the compact segment. The lack of updates regarding a successor to the Mazda3 has been striking, with no indication of its future on the brand's product roadmap.
Reports suggest that the compact model may not continue beyond 2026, which, if accurate, is disappointing for a brand that once thrived on producing engaging sedans and hatchbacks. Has the spirit of Zoom-Zoom faded?
Could China save the Mazda3?
When Mazda discontinued the long-standing Mazda6 sedan and wagon, many anticipated its replacement would be a rear-wheel-drive, inline-six model to compete with the BMW M340i and Audi S4.
However, that vision did not materialize. Instead, certain markets like Europe and Australia received the Deepal-based Mazda 6e/EZ-6, while North America was excluded.
This raises the question: could the Mazda3 face a similar fate and become another product derived from Deepal? As a smaller player in comparison to its competitors, leveraging Changan's resources could help Mazda manage development costs.
Additionally, the recently filed trademarks for the Mazda3e in Australia, the UK, and Europe, along with the reveal of Deepal's smaller L06 sedan by the Chongqing-based manufacturer, suggest the possibility of the Mazda3e being based on this model.
If Mazda follows the lead of the 6e, the 3e would utilize Deepal's existing technology. The L06 will debut in two versions: a range-extended hybrid (EREV) and a fully electric option.
The EREV combines a 97 hp 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine with a 28.39 kWh LFP battery and a 190 kW (255 hp) electric motor at the rear. It offers an EV-only range of 180 km (about 112 miles) according to the WLTP cycle, with the internal combustion engine's fuel consumption estimated at 4.38 liters per 100 km, or around 54 mpg.
The electric L06 features a single rear motor generating 268 hp (200 kW) and will be available with two battery sizes: a 56 kWh battery and a larger 69 kWh variant, providing a range of 416 miles (670 km).
Inside, expect a more upscale experience compared to the Deepal counterpart, as well as the increasingly common all-screen design seen in the new CX-5 and EZ-60 SUVs.
A 3-nanometer automotive-grade cockpit chip will power a 50-inch augmented reality head-up display, infotainment system, and Level 2+ driver-assist capabilities, including standard LiDAR integration.
The sedan will also provide more room. Measuring 190 inches (4830 mm) in length, it is significantly longer than the current Mazda3 and slightly shorter and wider than the discontinued Mazda6. This size increase addresses one of the major drawbacks of the Mazda3: limited rear seat space.
Our conceptual illustrations of the Mazda3e maintain the brand's Kodo design philosophy while incorporating elements from the Deepal donor vehicle. The front design evolves from the Mazda6e, featuring an illuminated front panel flanked by split-tier headlights and active grille shutters in the lower bumper area.
The vehicle has a sleek side profile with curvilinear bodywork, semi-flush door handles, and a coupe-like silhouette. Additionally, the LiDAR unit is positioned atop the windshield, while the rear includes a diffuser and a full-width taillight strip with circular accents.
It's important to note that Mazda has not yet confirmed whether the Mazda3 will be replaced with another generation or if it will be succeeded by a revamped Changan model.
If the latter occurs (likely within the next 24 months), the Mazda3 competitor will not be available in North America, yet it will compete with a range of electric options like Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 and BYD Seal in European and Asia Pacific regions.
Should Mazda leverage its alliance with Changan for the next Mazda3? We welcome your thoughts in the comments below.
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The Upcoming Mazda3 May Not Actually Be a Mazda | Carscoops
Mazda's recent collaboration with Deepal may indicate the electrification of the 3, suggesting significant transformations for the brand's compact lineup.