Mazda’s popular Mazda3 compact sedan is redesigned for the first time, an evolutionary design change that incorporates more of Mazda’s signature design elements. At the front, the lower air intake is incorporated with a larger 5-point grille, and the front wheel arches are more pronounced, like those of the RX-8 or CX-7.

The long hood, coupe-like silhouette and high trunk give the Mazda3 a wedge shape, and the rear fenders reflect RX-8 styling. The high-tech, self-leveling bi-xenon headlights, standard on the Grand Touring, add to the more refined look, as do the new rear combination lights. The new design also results in a significant improvement in aerodynamics.

Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations, promises that the larger, more powerful and more efficient Mazda3 will still be the most engaging car to drive in the compact segment. Only the Mazda3 sedan was shown; the 5-door hatchback will join the lineup later.

The 2010 Mazda3 is powered by a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that achieves 25/33 mpg (city/hwy) with a 5-speed manual transmission. A new 167-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder is borrowed from the Mazda6 and achieves 22/29 mpg (city/hwy) when combined with the 5-speed electronically controlled Sport-AT automatic transmission.

The Mazda3’s interior continues to be sporty, yet refined, with a new dash layout that sweeps from the center to the sides and that features grained soft-touch materials. All the information that the driver needs is in one area, with a Multi-Information Display positioned high on the center portion of the instrument panel.

The front seat cushions have been extended for more thigh support, and the backrests are taller. A three-position memory function has been added to cars equipped with power seats, an option not offered by competitors.

An interactive lighting system increases the interior illumination upon entry with footwell and door handle lights, followed by instrument cluster and center stack lighting. Changes to audio or air conditioning settings are acknowledged with a change in illumination.

Dual-zone automatic climate control is an option, as well as a 10-speaker Bose premium surround-sound system, cell phone connectivity, portable media connectivity, SIRIUS Satellite radio, an advanced keyless entry system with push-button starting, rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, leather upholstery and heated seats.