Zoom-Zoom with Room

The entry of the Mazda3 into the Philippine automotive market a month or so ago generated a new level of excitement for car enthusiasts.

Mazda Philippines introduced a stylish four-door sedan that is not only distinctive but powerful and responsive as well. With its aerodynamic body sharing the same platform as the Volvo S40 and the Ford Focus, the Mazda3 has the inherent safety features and the body strength offered by that shared platform. Its performance is highlighted by its 16-valve MZR engine with sequential valve timing (S-VT), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), electronic fuel injection (EFI) and electronic ignition coupled to a 4-speed electronic automatic transmission with Activematic that rewards its drivers with crisp acceleration, impressive torque and dependable power delivery. The Mazda3 was not only exhilarating to drive but was also dynamic around the corners and the twisties as well.

So, how else could Mazda improve on a car that enthusiasts already consider as an outstanding sedan? Easy. Add another door.

Traditionally, the Philippine automotive market is a 4-door sedan market when it comes to cars. 2-door coupés and 3-door hatchbacks have always been perceived as sexy or sporty and may have their own loyal following but 5-door hatchbacks and wagons didn’t really receive the attention they deserve. The 5-door hatchback was perceived by many as "too sporty for family use" while the wagon was perceived as being "too traditional-looking to be sporty".

Enter the Mazda3 Five-Door. Launched last October 8 at the new Mazda Alabang showroom along the Alabang-Zapote Road near the Ayala Town Center, this hot new hatchback challenges tradition and attract non-conformists who have their own flair. With it uniquely-styled rear hatchback, sporty roof extension and its mean overall demeanor, the new car breathes new life to the hatchback scene in the country. Exuding a sporty and energetic personality, the new Mazda invites people to take a closer look and rewards the driver with a powerful statement of distinction.

Inside, the Mazda3 Five-Door offers better access to its interior with its large hatchback opening. The rear seats can be reclined flat to form an accommodating cargo area that could rival a mini-SUV’s. The driver sits before an ergonomic dash and informative instrument panel that is lit in a sporty red glow. Overall, the car’s interior reflects the same sporty appeal as the exterior.

"The zoom-zoom spirit is totally embodied in the Mazda3 Five-Door. This vehicle is for stylish, spirited and intuitive people who set their standards. After all, driving a Five-Door vehicle in a society dominated by conventional sedans would need a driver who has his own mindset and someone who just doesn’t go with the flow," says David Macasadia, the Managing Director of Mazda Philippines. He added that not only will the customers be excited with its distinctive design but drivers will also take pleasure with the driving performance that comes with the Mazda3 Five-Door.

Va-vavoom and zoom-zoom with room, I say.