2022 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.0 High Plus Ignite Edition Review

The C-segment hatchback market has always been a popular choice for families and young buyers in Malaysia. As a regular in this segment, the Mazda 3 Hatchback, with its 2022 2.0 High Plus Ignite Edition, has once again drawn attention with upgraded configurations and optimized design details. For this review, we focused on evaluating whether it maintains its handling advantages while meeting the needs for luxury features and practicality.

From a distance, the proportions of the 2022 Mazda 3 Hatchback are still compact and well-balanced, aligning with the sporty positioning of C-segment hatchbacks. The front features the brand's signature shield-shaped grille, paired with a blacked-out air intake. The sharp LED headlights extend into the fenders, offering high recognition. The side profile is sleek, with a character line running from the front fender to the taillights, adding a sense of dimensionality. The 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels further enhance the sporty feel. At the rear, the hatchback design combined with blacked-out LED taillights echoes the front aesthetics, and the chrome trim on the lower part of the rear bumper adds a touch of refinement. The entire exterior has no unnecessary decoration, maintaining a clean and sporty style that appeals to young consumers.

Opening the door, the interior adopts a symmetrical layout, with the center console slightly tilted toward the driver for easier operation. In terms of materials, the top of the center console and the inner sides of the door panels are covered with soft-touch materials, providing a pleasant texture. Key features include an 8.8-inch touchscreen center display with smooth interface performance meeting expectations; a 7-inch fully digital instrument cluster with clear display and multiple information modes; and a standard HUD head-up display that can show speed, navigation, and other details to enhance driving safety. For the seats, the driver’s seat features 10-way electric adjustment with memory function, while the passenger seat is manually adjustable. The rear seats support a 60:40 split-folding configuration. As for storage space, the front central armrest box and door storage compartments are decently sized. The trunk offers a regular capacity of 295L, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats, meeting the needs of daily shopping or short trips.

In terms of space, the vehicle measures 4660mm in length, 1795mm in width, and 1440mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2725mm. The front-row space is plenty, with a 175cm tall driver having a fist's worth of headroom after adjusting the seat. The rear legroom measures about two fists, and headroom is approximately one fist, making it suitable for short trips for adults. ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard, accommodating family users. The rear row is also equipped with independent air conditioning vents and USB ports, improving passenger comfort in the back.

For powertrain, the car is equipped with a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine producing a maximum of 162PS and peak torque of 213N·m, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. During actual driving, the power response at startup is smooth, lacking the abruptness seen in turbocharged engines. Acceleration at low to medium speeds is linear, and when the RPM climbs to 4000, torque is sufficiently delivered. During overtakes, stepping hard on the accelerator triggers a responsive downshift and timely power output. Two driving modes are available: Normal and Sport. In Sport mode, throttle sensitivity increases, and the shift logic becomes more aggressive, catering to driving enthusiasts.

In terms of handling, the combination of front MacPherson independent suspension and rear multi-link independent suspension is tuned towards sportiness. The steering is precise with minimal play, and the body roll is well-controlled during cornering, providing the driver with sufficient confidence. When passing over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension filters out most fine vibrations while retaining some road feel, balancing handling and comfort. The braking performance is stable, with front ventilated discs and rear ventilated discs. The brake pedal feedback is linear, and the braking distance aligns with the class standards.

In the fuel consumption test, we drove 50km each in urban traffic and on highways, with a combined fuel consumption of approximately 7.2L/100km, slightly higher than the official figure of 6.3L. However, considering actual road conditions, the performance is still acceptable. In terms of noise control, the interior remains quiet at speeds below 60km/h. At speeds above 100km/h, wind and tire noise slightly increase, but it does not affect normal conversations. The seats offer good support, and long hours of driving cause minimal fatigue.

Safety features are a highlight of this car, with 7 airbags, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, and autonomous emergency braking as standard, standing out among competitors in the same class. Compared to rivals like the Honda Civic 1.5T Luxury Edition, the Mazda 3 boasts more comprehensive safety features and sturdier interior materials. In terms of pricing, its MSRP of RM 161,059 is similar to the Civic's but offers a noticeable edge in features.

Overall, the 2022 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.0 High Plus Ignite Edition's core strengths lie in its sporty handling, comprehensive safety features, and excellent interior quality. It is suitable for two types of users: young individuals who prioritize driving experience and families looking for a safe, reliable car. If you're looking for a C-segment hatchback that combines handling, safety, and practicality, this car is worth considering.

In conclusion, this car maintains Mazda's consistent advantage in handling while improving its features and comfort, making it a well-rounded choice in the C-segment hatchback market.