Mazda Australia hopes Australians will fall in love again with the new-generation Mazda3 sedan and hatch. Photo Gallery

A car that wins 94 global automotive awards...

...is proof that the designers and engineers got it right. It also means that buyers will view any replacement of that car with great interest.

With this in mind, Mazda has given the new Mazda3 the necessary style to keep it ahead of the small-car pack, while tweaking the car’s suspension and engines.

Mazda Australia hopes Australians will fall in love again with the new-generation Mazda3 sedan and hatch.

Visually there’s a lot to like about the newcomer. It gains a bold “smiling” face, a sharper profile and improved quality and interior ambience and keeps the unmistakable automotive DNA of a Mazda3 in the areas of engineering and design.

Like the previous model, the newest 3 will be available in Neo, Maxx, Maxx Sport, as well as a performance 2.5-litre SP25 variant.

Apart from dual airbags, Mazda has also upped the ante with safety equipment, making dynamic stability control standard across the range.

Inside, the cabin has a distinctly sporty orientation with a restyled dashboard, more supportive seats and a contemporary feel.

The instruments and centre console are positioned to tightly link the driver to the car in a seamless fashion.

The 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show...