Mazda 3 2019 base models under question

The price of entry into the upgraded new-generation Mazda3 2019 range could increase when it launches in June of this year - but you can expect standard equipment and safety gear to see a bump, too. 

In a move that echoes the positioning of the likes of the new-generation Toyota Corolla and Ford Focus, Mazda Australia is set to lose the entry-level model at the base of the range, instead offering a more upmarket line-up.

According to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, the company is looking at how it will approach the small car segment when the fourth-generation version of the Mazda3 sedan and hatch arrives in June 2019.

Bhindi stated a one key factor behind brands moving away from base model cars can be correlated with safety standards increasing across all categories. Indeed, the current-generation Mazda3 has had items such as auto emergency braking (AEB), blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a reversing camera on all grades for some time now. 

It is unlikely that strategy will change for the fourth-generation model - but with new safety systems added to the 2019 Mazda3, such as a surround-view camera, front cross traffic alert and a driver fatigue monitoring camera, it is possible that some safety could be reserved for higher-grades.

The new Mazda 3 scores a surround-view camera.

But even so, Bhindi said that “with the current-generation Mazda 3, our entry model that has some safety equipment fitted” but that sales of the Neo Sport (formerly just the Neo) are not that significant, at less than 10 per cent.

“Our focus remains on mums and dads, private buyers. There’s no change in direction on fleet,” he said, indicating that Mazda isn’t eager to pursue a cut-price model to appeal to hire car fleets and company buyers.

“That segment is going through a change. We've seen in the last, probably 6-12 months that new products coming out are bringing a lot more safety features. And we're looking at all options, but we've always lead with a high-content safety feature strategy.”

Other brands like Kia and Hyundai offer entry-level affordable models which have some requisite safety equipment fitted, but require optional extras to be added on - and it’s no surprise models like the Cerato and i30/Elantra are becoming more popular with fleet buyers as a result. 

“So you could ask whether those safety strategies by some others are particularly targeted for certain type of buyers. And it could be fleet. But from our point of view doesn't make sense,” he said.

What about manual transmissions, then? The brand currently offers six-speed manual versions of the 3 in both 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre engine specs, and the manual transmission has long been an ‘entry-point’ to the range.

Mazda will continue to to offer a manual in the 3 range.

Bhindi said that manuals will continue to form an integral part of the Mazda3 range, even if the standard spec levels increase along with the entry price.

“The manual gearbox is still going to be relevant. Yes, we will continue to offer manuals,” he said.

Do you think advanced safety gear should be optional, or standard? Tell us what you think in the comments below.