2020 Mazda3 Skyactiv-X AWD – Sporty And Elegant Hatchback. 2020 Mazda3 Skyactiv-X AWD GT Sport Tech Hatchback – Drive, Interior and Exterior. Subscribe.
Other NVH improvement measures include optimisation of the engine control system and engine mounts to suppress unpleasant vibrations during i-stop operation. Of particular note is the belt-driven ISG used by the Mazda M Hybrid system of the Skyactiv-G 2.0 engine. When stopping, it enables the system’s motor to move the pistons to a position where they will start again smoothly, regardless of the operating environment.
Matched exclusively to the Skayactiv-X engine the All-New Mazda3 hatchback is offered with Mazda’s latest intelligent all-wheel drive system – marking the first-time Mazda has offered a four-wheel drive option in this sector since the 323 AWD. Designed to deliver grip, handling agility and driver confidence, while at the same time ensuring excellent fuel economy, Mazda’s latest i-Activ AWD system stays true to the spirit of Jinba Ittai by responding to driver’s intentions regardless of road conditions.
In addition to always being ready to handle rain, snow and slippery conditions, Mazda’s AWD system contributes to smooth acceleration and cornering on dry roads, enhancing the already dynamically accomplished Mazda3 chassis. The balance between front and rear tyre grip is constantly controlled to find the perfect balance between grip and efficiency, to achieve this the system continuously calculates and adjusts the amount of torque sent to the rear wheels in order to prevent slip at the front axle.Working in harmony with G-Vectoring Control (GVC) to control torque in response to road condition, throttle position and steering input, the system ensures grip is delivered seamlessly when needed.
The new multi-directional ring structures make it possible to concentrate energy input from the road surface in specifically chosen locations. A newly developed damping structure employed in the locations where the energy is concentrated serves as a buffer material that absorbs energy. This effectively reduces vibration that would otherwise cause noise, and it does not increase vehicle weight.
Even better, the All-New Mazda3’s advanced and stiff chassis has allowed for a suspension system that delivers better communication of road inputs and improved ride quality. Designed with the aim of smoothing forces to the sprung mass, the suspension continues to use an evolved version of MacPherson struts in the front and a newly developed torsion beam set-up in the rear. Specific measures include the adoption of bushings with a new spherically shaped internal structure that makes the suspension respond to input by moving appropriately in the desired direction. In addition, the shortened distance between the lower arm front bushings and ball joints increases longitudinal rigidity in response to lateral input. One result is that it suppresses front-rear movement and supports rapid, lag-free transmission of the input.
The suspension geometry was also redesigned, reducing the amount of steering direction change in relation to suspension stroke to realise more linear movement while cornering. The rear torsion beam adopts a new structure that features different diameters at its centre and outer sections. This effectively increases the rigidity of the rear tyre mounts, which enhances the vehicle’s response.
The All-New Mazda3 is offered with a choice of two petrol engines: 122ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G and Skyactiv-X 180ps Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) engine. Across all trims these engines are offered with a choice of six-speed Skyactiv-MT manual or six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission.
While it is based on the 2.0-litre petrol engine found in the outgoing third-generation Mazda3, the latest Skyactiv-G 2.0 high-efficiency direct injection petrol engine found in the All-New Mazda3 features a host of new features including Mazda’s new Mazda M Hybrid system. The result is strong dynamic performance combined with excellent fuel economy and low particulate matter exhaust emissions. The unit develops 122 PS at 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 213 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
Another first for the All-New Mazda3 is cylinder deactivation. Fuel economy in the evolved Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre is increased by virtually shrinking the displacement of the engine when possible. The system automatically switches between two-cylinder and four-cylinder operation depending on the driving conditions. Thus, the system shuts down cylinders one and four in light-load situations, such as when cruising at a constant speed. This reduces pumping loss and mechanical resistance. Airflow intake volume, fuel injection rates and ignition timing are precisely controlled to make the switch smooth. The driver is able to enjoy fuel savings without any noticeable change in the feel of driving the car.
