2019 Mazda 3 revealed with efficient new petrol engine

The new Mazda 3 has been revealed ahead of it going on sale in 2019 with prices expected to start from around £21,000.

The Volkswagen Golf rival features an innovative petrol engine which - Mazda says - will return diesel-like economy. The new Skyactiv-X petrol engine uses a diesel-like compression system to improve fuel economy, as well as a small electric motor.

Available in Fastback saloon and hatch guises and launched at the Los Angeles motor show, the new Mazda 3 is based on the firm's new Skyactiv Vehicle Architecture.

The new model takes styling cues from the larger Mazda 6. It features a lower, longer bonnet than before, while slim LED headlights are incorparated into the grille.

“The all-new Mazda3 we unveil today begins a new era for Mazda,” said Mazda’s representative director, president and CEO, Akira Marumoto.

“The next generation of Mazda cars will enhance the value of the car-ownership experience. Through these products, we will further raise Mazda’s brand value and work towards our goal of building ever stronger bonds with customers all over the world.”

As well as the innovative new Skyactiv-X petrol engine, the new Mazda 3 will be available with two conventional Skyactiv-G petrol engines: a 1.5- and 2.0-litre. A 1.8-litre Skyactiv-D diesel will also be sold.

The new Mazda 3 is expected to go on sale in spring 2019, with deliveries starting soon after.