2027 Mazda3: 6 years later, the compact model can be used with

Mazda has been so focused on strengthening its SUV lineup that the Mazda3 sits around the corner without getting much attention. While the Japanese automaker doesn’t have any official words about the next step in its compact model, a new set of standalone renderings tries to imagine the look of a heavy-duty refresh.

The fourth-generation Mazda3 debuted in late 2018, before entering production and dealership stores in 2019. Available in the five-door hatchback and four-door sedan versions, it is praised for its beautiful yet aggressive styling. But, like your favorite band that released a killer album and then disappeared for years, Mazda3 has obviously not had any major updates since. Now, it’s obvious that the update is long overdue.

More: Mazda sketches hint at new subtype SUV

Instead of a simple makeover, independent digital artist Digimods Design created a Mazda3 sedan that showed off the look of a new generation. The design combines styling tips from Mazda’s latest models to make it look more elegant

The front end of the compact sedan draws inspiration from spy shots and renderings of the next-generation CX-5, which will debut later this year. It features sharp LED headlights that surround the grille and comes with a sport bumper intake and a sculpted hood.

Rendering: Digimods design (sedan) and MV Auto (hammerback)

Mazda

The side curves of the Mazda3 sedan concept are attached to the greenhouse and wheelbase of the current model, although the door surface and rear fenders have been redesigned. The result is a more modern outline, but still feels familiar.

But, behind the scenes, things became less exciting. The tailgate has been modified, and while the smaller headlights borrowed from Mazda’s SUV lineup look good, they don’t fully measure the sculpted rear end of the current model, which has been one of its powerful views.

Although the Digimods are designed to blend completely with the sedan, they don’t extend the same processing scope to the hatchback. But another independent digital artist, MV Auto, created renderings of the modified Mazda3 hatchback, drawing styling tips from the electric Mazda 6e/ez-6 sedan. This explanation of future models blends familiar contours with redesigned front-end and back-end.

Are we really looking forward to the new Mazda3?

Good question. While Mazda remains closed for the future plans of Mazda3, we sincerely hope that the new version will be faster than earlier. The discontinuation of the aging Mazda6 makes the Mazda3 the only ice-type sedan for Japanese automakers and one of the few non-processed models next to the MX-5.

More: Mazda’s first dedicated electric vehicle to be built in Japan with Panasonic batteries

The new or significantly updated Mazda3 may continue to use its existing front-wheel drive platform, as the rear-wheel drive setup is more suitable for larger models. It is also expected to offer an automatic charging hybrid powertrain, helping it compete more effectively with competitors like the Toyota Corolla. This hybrid can come from a Toyota-derived system in the mechanically-related CX-50, or from a new internal hybrid setup to be introduced in the next generation CX-5.

In the future outlook, hopefully, the Mazda 3 may receive the brand’s upcoming SkyActiv-Z petrol powertrain, which is scheduled to arrive in 2027. Mazda promises that the engine will bring “unprecedented efficiency” and what this may actually mean given their trail.

At some point, we may learn more about Mazda’s plans for compact hatches and sedans. Until then, we will rely on our spy photographers, hoping they can glimpse the prototype of the disguised to confirm that Mazda3 is actually still alive and kicked.