Bermaz Motor has officially brought back the Mazda3 1.5L to Malaysia, and this time, it comes with enhanced equipment and a specification list that makes it more appealing than ever.
For those who have always admired the Mazda3’s design but wished for a more accessible entry point, the new 1.5L variant offers the same premium feel, elegant looks, and driver-focused experience — at a starting price of RM118,900 (OTR without insurance).
Design: “Car as Art” in Motion
Mazda’s Kodo – Soul of Motion design language remains the centrepiece of the Mazda3’s appeal. Every curve and surface has been sculpted to capture light and shadow dynamically, giving the car a sense of movement even when standing still. It’s minimalism at its finest — inspired by Japanese “less is more” philosophy — and the result is a car that looks striking and dynamic without overdoing it.
Cabin: Quiet Sophistication, Crafted for the Driver
Step inside, and the Mazda3 1.5L continues to impress as it is spec’d like the 2.0L variants. The cabin feels more premium than what you’d expect in this segment, with quality materials, precise finishing, and a clean, driver-oriented layout.
The interior also gets an upgraded 10.25-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, complemented by a 7-inch multi-info instrument cluster. Type-C USB ports are now standard at the centre console and rear armrest, keeping all passengers connected.
Mazda’s Jinba-Ittai philosophy — the idea of “horse and rider as one” — is clearly felt here. The driving position, steering feel, and control placement all come together seamlessly for that connected driving experience Mazda is known for.
Powertrain: SkyActiv Balance
Under the hood, the 1.5L variant carries Mazda’s familiar SkyActiv-G 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine, paired with a 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission with manual shift mode.
The setup delivers smooth, refined power delivery and excellent fuel efficiency — ideal for urban commuting yet still enjoyable on the open road.
For those seeking more performance, Mazda continues to offer the 2.0L variants, unchanged in mechanical specification.
Safety: Confidence in Every Journey
Mazda isn’t cutting corners on safety either. The Mazda3 1.5L now includes 9 SRS airbags and the full suite of i-Activsense driver assistance technologies.
This includes:
- Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS)
- High Beam Control (HBC)
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
- Lane Keep Assist System (LAS)
- Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
- Smart Brake Support (Front & Rear, with Stop & Go)
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC)
- Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS)
In short, it’s as well-equipped in safety as any premium C-segment rival.
Ownership & Warranty
As with all Mazda vehicles sold by Bermaz Motor, the Mazda3 1.5L comes fully imported (CBU) from Japan and includes:
- 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- 5-Year Free Maintenance Programme
Both coverages are valid for five years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first — inclusive of labour, parts, and lubricants.
Price and Availability
| Variant | Body Style | Price (OTR, excl. insurance) |
|---|---|---|
| Mazda3 1.5L High Plus | Liftback & Sedan | RM118,900 |
Available colours: Soul Red, Polymetal Gray, Jet Black, Platinum Quartz, Machine Gray.
Mazda hasn’t forgotten what makes a car feel good to drive, even at the entry level. The 1.5L might not be a rocket, but if you appreciate balance, refinement, and attention to detail, this one delivers all the “Mazda-ness” you could want without stretching the wallet too far. You can check it out at the Mazda roadshow in Bangsar Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur this weekend.
Bookings are now open at all authorised Mazda showrooms nationwide.
