2010 Mazda3 Hatchback unveiled prior to Bologna Motor Show

After unveiling the Mazda has finally preview images and some technical details of its five-door hatchback ahead of its Bologna Motor Show debut early next month. Mazda says that one in three cars it sells worldwide is a Mazda3, so it comes as little surprise that it would choose the hatchback-friendly European market to unveil its roomiest variant.

Availability will begin early next year, likely alongside the Mazda3 sedan’s debut in March for the North American market. Like the new sedan, the hatchback is a little longer than its predecessor. The added length will translate to more interior space, though it’s not known if that will come in the form of passenger legroom or added cargo capacity.



Underhood, the new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is borrowed from the larger Mazda6i and will offer 167 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 168 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. Like its predecessor, the model offered in the United States and Canada will not be equipped with the smaller 2.0 liter engine standard in the sedan. Both powertrains feature a new catalyst developed with single nanotechnology that significantly cuts down on the amount of platinum and palladium necessary.



Exterior styling is obviously derivative of the outgoing model, though all body panels are new and most of the car, aft of the windshield, is exclusive to the hatchback.



Inside, it appears that the hatchback interior will be identical to the sedan, which features a more cohesive design than its predecessor as well as a number of class-exclusive luxury features. Mazda confirmed that the hatchback will be offered with Bluetooth connectivity, adaptive Bi-Xenon headlamps, an advanced keyless entry system and push-button start.