When was the Mazda 3 Hatchback released?

The Mazda3 Hatchback – often referred to locally as the Mazda 3 Sport in Malaysia – first hit the scene back in 2003 as part of the first-generation lineup. It's the five-door hot hatch counterpart to the sedan, launching right alongside its four-door sibling. Fast forward to today, and Malaysian showrooms are now stocked with the fourth-gen model, unveiled back in 2019. This iteration拥抱 Mazda's striking Kodo design philosophy and packs their efficient Skyactiv engines under the hood, giving buyers a choice between peppy 1.5L and 2.0L powerplants. Malaysian drivers have taken a real shine to this hatch, and it's easy to see why. That sporty, dynamic exterior turns heads, but it's the engaging driving experience that really wins people over. Mazda hasn't skimped on the refinements either – there's upgraded sound deadening for a quieter ride and a noticeably more premium feel inside the cabin. Step up to the higher trims, and you're treated to leather upholstery and a thumping Bose sound system, adding that extra layer of luxury. In Malaysia's competitive hatchback segment, the Mazda3 Hatchback goes toe-to-toe with heavyweights like the Honda Civic Hatchback and Toyota Corolla Hatchback. But it carves out its own space with that distinct design flair and a laser-sharp focus on driving pleasure, which has helped it maintain solid sales figures. A smart move in recent years was the introduction of locally-assembled (CKD) versions, which have made the Mazda3 Hatchback a more budget-friendly proposition without diluting its appeal. And true to form, Mazda continues to offer its comprehensive i-Activsense safety suite as standard across the range, featuring handy tech like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist – a big plus for safety-conscious buyers.