Only in Japan: Mazda Axela Sport and Mazdaspeed Variant

Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch in Japan of a special edition of its Mazda Axela (known overseas as the Mazda3). In addition, several models in the Axela range have received upgrades.

The Axela Sport 20S-SKYACTIV Advanced Style is based on the Axela Sport 20S-SKYACTIV and enhanced with features such as leather seats, a leather-wrapped parking brake lever, and cruise control. Additionally, ride quality is improved and noise in the cabin has been further reduced through the use of sound insulation and sound-proof glass. The model's sporty features include a speedometer scaled up to 240km/h and a large rear roof spoiler.

Safety features have also been upgraded, including the employment of Mazda's Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), which alters the direction of the headlights in accordance with vehicle speed and steering movements. In addition, the Rear Vehicle Monitoring system detects vehicles approaching from behind on either side when driving on the highway. Warning signals alert the driver if he or she attempts to change lanes when there is a risk of collision.

With the upgrade to the Axela range, revisions to the fuel management system of the highly efficient SKYACTIV-G 2.0 direct-injection gasoline engine have resulted in improved fuel economy. The Axela Sport 20C-SKYACTIV and 20S-SKYACTIV equipped with 15-inch tires achieve a fuel economy rating of 17.4km/L (JC08 mode test cycle) and qualify for a 75% reduction in both vehicle acquisition and vehicle weight taxes under Japan's eco-car tax reduction program*1.

The Mazdaspeed Axela is equipped with a powerful MZR 2.3-liter direct-injection turbo engine. Its look has been sharpened up with a new shark fin antenna and gunmetal gray for the aluminum wheels and lower rear bumper.

Credits: wilswong