Traditional Japanese aesthetics are infused by detailed rules on how to interpret the simplest of things and occurrences surrounding us. The new Mazda3 em­bodies a further development of the company’s “Kodo” design philosophy, which embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics. Accordingly, the car features a reduced body, which creates a powerful expression of vitality based on the interplay of light, shades and reflections. Conveying the notions of vitality and power, the cabin and body appear as a single solid mass. The “less is more” philosophy underlying the overall design is also continued in the interior. The cockpit showcases a horizontal and symmetric layout that centres on the driver, offering an optimum of user comfort. The ergonomically designed seat keeps the driver’s pelvis upright to support natural posture and reduce fatigue. Furthermore, the newly interpreted vehicle platform is complemented by an optimised vehicle handling. It provides a direct response when accelerating, turning and braking, while the new chassis and body dampen input from the road before it reaches the body. In addition, the Mazda3 comes with highly advanced i-Activsense safety technology and efficient Skyactiv power trains. As an option, it can also be equipped with an innovative Skyactiv-X engine, a groundbreaking petrol engine that delivers the fuel efficiency of a diesel.