JEDDAH, 16 November 2006 — Haji Husein Alireza & Co. Ltd. (HHA), the exclusive dealer of Mazda cars in Saudi Arabia, has launched the new sporty Mazda3 hatchback, which sets “a new class-standard for style, comfort, driving pleasure and sheer pride of ownership.” “The new five-door hatchback is a superb statement of automotive engineering, designed and built to enrich your life on the road in every way possible,” Yousuf Zainal Alireza, director and general manager sales, at HHA, told at press conference at the unveiling ceremony. A high-level delegation from Mazda Motors Corporation was present.
The new sporty Mazda3 follows the Mazda3 sedan that has enjoyed a “great success” since its introduction to the Saudi market two years ago and won several awards worldwide for its safety and design features.
“The new sport hatchback has been already launched in several international markets and widely accepted by professionals and consumers alike,” he added.
The new car combines exciting features including an attractive design. “Particular attention was paid to improving the interior quality. Three interior color schemes are provided to ensure bright relaxing atmosphere,” Shoaib H. Mayet, Mazda branch manager at HHA, said in his presentation.
Like is sedan counterpart, the new hatchback is built to provide total protection. Active safety includes a four-wheel anti-lock brake system and electronic brake-force distribution to vary front/rear brake force depending on the load. Passive safety starts with Mazda’s advanced impact distribution and absorption system built around a triple-H structure that powerfully resists deformation. Further protection is provided by front seat-belts with a pretensioner and load limiter, while front airbags are fitted as standard on all models. Side and curtain airbags are also optionally available.
Its high-power, all aluminum MZR 1.6 engine features a DOHC 16-valve configuration, as well as S-VT (sequential valve timing) and VIS (variable induction system). S-VT continuously varies valve open/close timing according to engine speed and air intake, while VIS controls manifold length to optimize intake efficiency. The result is enhanced torque across the engine’s entire rev range, along with grater power and increased fuel efficiency. Four-speed “Activematic” transmission gives the best of both worlds — full automatic for relaxed driving in the city or semi-manual shifting for a stirringly sport drive.
The carefully tuned suspension system — MacPherson strut at the front and multi-link at the rear — delivers a smooth, comfortable ride in combination with unrivaled handling to match the engine’s high power output. Large diameter front disc and rear drum brakes provide powerful, fade-resistant stopping power. “Along with Mazda innovations such as high-rigidity brake hoses, they provide some of the shortest stopping distances in the class,” Mayet said.
He demonstrated how Mazda3 Sport’s luggage space is featured with a full-flat floor to assure easy stowage. And versatility is assured with a 60:40 slit rear seat-back folding facility. Its boot features a new layout that holds up to three full-size golf bags and a convenient recess in the top of the bumper gives an easier fit for the hand. Double-link boot hinges take virtually no space whether the lid is open or closed, for even great ease of use.
The new car equipped with 1.6 liter, DOHC 4 cylinders produces 145 MN/4000 rpm with electronic fuel injection that reduces fuel consumption and increase engine power.
