Vancouver

With the upcoming Mazda3, the Japanese automaker hopes to repeat the success they recently had when introducing the mid-size Mazda6.

Based on Ford’s CW170 world small-car platform – and sharing this platform with the upcoming Volvo S40 and future Ford Focus, the Mazda3 will be officially introduced during the 2004 model year. The North American market will first see sedan and sport wagon variants, with the hatchbacks (three- and five-door models) possibly to follow.

The exterior design of the Mazda3 (and especially the front) is closely related to that of the Mazda6. Due to its low and sloping roofline, the new lineup will appear quite dynamic.

The engine offerings for North America are expected to include a 2.0-liter four and a 2.3-liter four, with other options available in Europe and Asia.

The biggest news: the Mazda3 name will replace the “Protégé” and other names used around the world.