Mazda has just launched the 2008 Mazda3 range, bringing more features and better value to one of its best-selling models in New Zealand. The 2008 Mazda3 range offers a choice of two body styles, four transmissions and four specification grades; GLX, GSX, SP23 and MPS. All variants sport a host of cosmetic changes including three new colours; Copper Red, Stormy Blue and Metropolitan Grey. The 2.0L GLX Hatch offers newly-designed wheel covers for its 15-inch steel wheels while an upgraded black cloth seat and door trim upgrade freshen up the interior. Pricing on this model now begins at $26,995 and equipped with driver and front passenger SRS airbags as well as ABS brakes with EBD and Emergency Brake Assist. Priced from just $29,845, the 2.0L Mazda3 GSX in either Sedan or Hatch body style boasts a new 16-inch alloy wheel design, while the sleek centre console in new Piano Black combined with chrome door handles and new cloth seat and interior door trim give the interior a luxurious feel. In addition the GSX has Side and Curtain Airbags as well as cruise control and steering wheel mounted audio controls and AUX audio connector for MP3 players to further enhance your driving enjoyment. The 2.0L DOHC engine with Sequential Valve Timing for optimum power and instant response at all engine speeds equipped to the GLX and GSX grades has 108 kW of power and 182 Nm of torque while still returning a frugal (combined) fuel consumption of 8.2 L/100km with the manual transmission. The 2.3L Mazda3 SP23 Sedan or Hatch, priced from $33,695 offers even more refinement and value. Open the new chrome outer door handles and inside is an ultra-quality seat and door trim courtesy of its bigger sibling the MPS, and new Piano Black centre console, instrument panels, steering wheel and door switches. While a newly designed rear bumper on SP23 sport hatch models takes its cues from the sporty MPS rear bumper design. With a choice of either 6 Speed manual or 5 speed activematic for the SP23 and 115 kW of power and 230 Nm of torque, fuel consumption is an economical 8.6 L/100km for the manual. There is also a Limited edition SP23 priced at $39,245 which is only available in 5 speed activematic and has the added feature of Dynamic Stability Control, a 222W BOSE™ premium audio system with subwoofer and 7 speakers and steering wheel mounted transmission shift controls for enhanced driving enjoyment. The 2.3L Direct Injection Spark Ignition turbocharged Mazda3 MPS with 190kW of power and Torque of 380 Nm gets similar interior upgrades along with a brand new seat and interior door trim featuring leather with black cloth and red trim and is priced at $43,495. As with all Mazda passenger cars, every new Mazda3 comes standard with mazdacare. mazdacare comprises of a Mazda Genuine Factory Warranty and Mazda On Call Roadside Assistance for a 3 year, unlimited kilometre period and Genuine Mazda Servicing for 3 years/100,000 km (whichever occurs first). Andrew Clearwater managing director said the model freshening makes the 2008 Mazda3 range better value than ever before. “This revitalised line up adds even more value to what is already an exceptionally priced car that continues to attract new car buyers with its high levels of safety, performance, fuel economy and style.”