Mazda cuts prices and adds value

With the Toyota Corolla storming up the sales charts, Mazda has sharpened its value pencil across its small-car range in an effort to stay in the game. The Mazda3 sedan and hatch gain value upgrades worth $1600 across the range and electronic stability control is now standard on the SP23.

The Maxx has effectively been dropped. The range now consists of the Neo Sport, Maxx Sport, Diesel, SP23 and MPS models.

Pricing for the 2.0-litre turbodiesel has been cut $1000 to $29,500 and the turbocharged MPS trimmed $1240 to $38,750.

All models have minor cosmetic changes designed to keep the car fresh before the next generation arrives next year.

The entry Neo Sport retains its $20,990 starting price but gains 15-inch alloys, electric windows and mirrors and an AUX jack for iPod compatibility. The car's interior trim has been upgraded. The Neo Sport retains a comprehensive list of standard features. They include dual front airbags, airconditioning and remote central locking. The driver's seat is height adjustment while the steering wheel is height- and reach-adjustable.

The $25,500 Maxx Sport carries over its six airbags and now gets chrome outer door handles and redesigned 16-inch alloys. The interior cloth trim takes some inspiration from the SP23.

The Neo Sport and Maxx Sport 2.0-litre four- cylinder carries over, developing 108kW at 6500 revs and 182Nm at 4500 revs. It mates to a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The Diesel sedan and hatch have the same improvements and high level of specification as the Maxx Sport.

Pricing for the 2.3-litre SP23 remains at $29,600, but it gets chrome outer door handles and electronic stability control with a traction control system, previously on the SP23 Luxury.

The SP23 gets the same trim as the MPS. Interior highlights are in piano black. The turbocharged Mazda3 MPS gets similar interior upgrades and a new cloth trim with red highlights.