Mazda Axela is a compact car known in Russia as the Mazda 3. The predecessor of the model was a concept called MX Sportif. Well, it is worth telling in more detail about the "troika", which is a very popular car not only in its homeland, but also in Europe.
First models
Mazda Axela was very successful. She has a sporty, but at the same time solid design. Specialists have done a great job to create a car that would appeal to many. And they did it.
At first there was a hatchback. The very first models attract attention with an aggressive front end and a radiator grille that goes into the hood. The highlight of the design can be called head optics and a triangular rear pillar.
Then sedans began to appear. Models made in this body look more businesslike. The back is especially attractive. Expressive optics, a wide triangular pillar and an upper spoiler decorate and complement the whole image. By the way, it is interesting that this car is based on the platform on which the second-generation Ford Focus model is built.
The interior of the Mazda Axela is spacious and comfortable. The seats are equipped with excellent lateral support, and the steering column can be adjusted both on the outreach and on the tilt. Thanks to this function, the driver can arrange his seat as he sees fit.
Features and equipment
Even the very first Mazda 3 / Axela models had 6 airbags and pretensioner belts as standard. Experts, developing this model, focused on reliability and comfort.
Two engines were installed under the hood of the first versions. One is a 1.6-liter, 105-horsepower. The second was more powerful. Its volume was 2 liters, and he produced 150 “horses”. Each unit was driven by a 5-speed "mechanics".
Both engines were very dynamic and economical. That's because their main feature is the aluminum cylinder block and lightweight pistons. The motors are also equipped with an intake manifold with variable geometry. Thanks to all these features, the engines are stable and efficient. So, for example, a model with a 1.6-liter unit accelerates to 100 km / h in 11 seconds. Its maximum speed is 182 km / h, and the flow rate is about 7.2 liters in the combined cycle.
By the way, in 2004 under the hood Mazda Axela began to put a gasoline 1.4-liter unit and a diesel 1.6 Common Rail.
Technical features
Concern specialists every year tried to improve their model. So, for example, in mid-2004, 4-speed “automatic” appeared. Models with 2-liter engines began to be equipped with an electro-hydraulic power steering. Disc brakes were installed on all wheels, and the front ones were even equipped with ventilation.
The front - both the Mazda Axela BK5P hatchbacks and sedans - have MacPherson strut suspension, and the rear has a multi-link design. In terms of safety, cars have also been improved. The steering column is folding in the case of an accident, and this machine also has a safety pedal assembly. Not surprisingly, Axela received high marks in emergency safety tests.
Further production
In 2009, it was decided to upgrade the look of the car to attract new customers. No major changes. Only cosmetic updates. But it turned out pretty well. It can be seen that the developers made every effort to create a more modern machine.
The car has become a little bigger. In length, he added 4.5 centimeters. And the sedan extended by 9 cm. We increased the rear and front overhangs, although the wheelbase remained unchanged. Also, the car became lighter by about 15 kilograms.
In 2010, the Mazda's image was refreshed - ribs, stamping of body panels and convex wheel arches became noticeable. The front part was deprived of the radiator grill, but a wide air intake was added.
Experts also worked well on sound insulation. They brought her level to almost perfection. And the Mazda Axela engine stopped vibrating a lot thanks to the use of noise-absorbing materials in the engine compartment.
Updated interior
Salon is the main highlight of the improved model. It is offered in five different versions. The most expensive, of course, is the most attractive and luxurious. This is a version of Grand Touring. A car whose seats are heated and upholstered in high quality leather. The driver's seat is adjustable in all directions, and in addition, it has a settings memory system. Another car is equipped with a 2-zone "climate", rain sensors and headlights that turn behind the wheels. As an option, navigation, the function of starting the engine with a button and a powerful stereo system from Bose are also offered.
Basic equipment also can not be called poor. Mirrors and power windows are equipped with an electric drive, the driver's seat is adjustable in height, the steering column - respectively. And inside there is a CD player. Sports equipment received a keyless entry system, alloy wheels, cruise and air conditioning. By the way, each version, even the basic one, is equipped with 6 airbags and ABS.
Last generation
June 26, 2013 in Australia, the attention of motorists was presented Mazda Axela / 3 new, third generation. Of the distinguishing features, it is worth noting the underlying Skyactiv chassis. And an advanced body design. Plus, new engines have appeared. At 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 liters. Their power is 118, 155 and 184 horsepower respectively. True, these are gasoline units. Another turbocharged diesel appeared. Its volume is 2.2 liters, and power - 150 liters. from. Mazda third generation are available with both “mechanics” and “automatic”. But each transmission has six steps.
2.2 Skyactiv-D
This is one of the most popular Mazda Axela models. The technical characteristics of this car should be considered as detailed as possible - as an example.
The ground clearance of the model is 15.5 centimeters. Trunk volume, as it is a hatchback, varies from 350 to 1250 liters (the rear row of seats can be folded). The in-line engine, 2.2-liter, produces 175 horsepower. The engine is 4-cylinder, diesel and biturbo, equipped with an intercooler. It is driven by a 6-speed "mechanics".
Front mounted ventilated disc brakes. Behind - they are the same, but without ventilation. Front mounted MacPherson strut. And behind is an independent multi-link design.
Why is this car one of the most popular? Largely due to the expense. This machine is very economical, as in the combined cycle it consumes only 4.7 liters of diesel fuel. By the way, the tank volume is 51 liters.
The cost of this car starts at 1,389,000 rubles. For a richer version, you will have to pay about 1,511,000 p. By the way, this is one of the most expensive diesel crossovers. Except those representing the premium segment. And one of the most bought.
What do the owners say?
It is interesting that in Russia there are quite a few people who own not the “troika”, but namely the Axela, that is, with the right-hand drive. This means that if problems arise with the car (breakdowns, for example), it will be easy to find spare parts.
Mazda Axela is generally a solid car. And she reliably serves her owner, even if she is already more than 10 years old. Most of all, people like well-developed ergonomics: devices conveniently located on the panel, lights, lots of different compartments for storing things, etc. True, everyone notes with attention and an unambiguous minus - low clearance. For Russian roads, it really is not enough. But, on the other hand, this is not an SUV, but a car for the city. This also needs to be remembered. But most owners praise the management and dynamics. The car drives perfectly and fits perfectly into corners. In general, its main advantages are cheap maintenance, attractive appearance and reliability.