Last year, I had the chance to review the updated Mazda 3 sedan. That variant was the entry-level spec, but it still left quite a decent impression on me. This year, Bermaz gave me the opportunity to test the more expensive, but not quite top-of-the-line, Mazda 3 High Plus variant. It’s not the top-of-the-line because above it, there is the Mazda 3 High Plus with the Ignite Edition. That specification comes with even more features, but we’ll be ignoring that variant for now. So this time around, I’ll be checking out the Mazda 3 High Plus and seeing how much more premium it is than the previous Mazda 3 that I reviewed.
Just like the sedan variant, this latest Mazda 3 has been upgraded with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen that is a joy to use. It makes the car feel a generation newer compared to the recently launched Mazda CX-5. Apart from the bigger screen, the resolution of the infotainment screen is also greatly increased, and the same goes for the reverse camera. The graphics on the screen are much smoother, and the large screen estate gives the driver a better viewing angle. The phone connection for the latest Mazda 3 has also been enhanced, with USB-C providing a better connection and faster charging speed for the connected device. As usual, I am not able to test the wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless charger because I do not use an iPhone. 
The last update available here is the enhanced Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC). This feature now adds a stop-and-go function to the cruise control system. It allows the car to slow down to a standstill when the traffic in front stops. It also has the ability to move again when the vehicle in front starts moving. However, like all radar-guided cruise control systems, I feel that the gap between the car in front is too wide, which opens up a gap for other road users to cut in. This is one of the reasons why many road users don’t use it often. 
Currently, all Mazda 3s in Malaysia are powered by one engine option, the 2.0L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. This engine can produce 162 HP and 213 Nm of torque, and is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, with power being sent to the front wheels. While this engine works well with Mazda SUVs, I think it really comes alive in the Mazda 3. It provides a good amount of power for the hatchback to accelerate at a decent pace, while still being very comfortable while cruising. This is one of the best applications for this 2L engine so far. 
Handling is something that Mazda has done really well, and this characteristic has also been engineered into the Mazda 3. The steering wheel provides decent feedback to the driver, and the nimble chassis allows the car to corner in an eager manner. However, if you reach the limit, the Mazda 3 can feel a tad twitchy. Mazda is also able to strike a good compromise between making the vehicle capable and comfortable when carrying passengers. But this compromise means the body roll is more prominent when pushing the vehicle through corners. Being a liftback, I do feel that the chassis is slightly stiffer than the sedan variant. This is obvious when going over uneven roads. The stiffer chassis provides better body control compared to the sedan. 
At the RM 166,059 price tag, the Mazda 3’s performance definitely falls short of some of its turbocharged competitors. However, without a turbo, I believe this engine is cheaper to maintain in the long run. I think the Mazda 3 is a simple vehicle to own, and it won’t give you much trouble if you’re interested in it. After so many years, the Mazda 3 is still a handsome-looking vehicle, and it barely looks old. If you want to buy it based on looks alone, the Mazda 3 is still worth every penny. 
Check out the full photo album here.
