One of our readers sent us this Japanese brochure shot showing what is alleged to be the facelifted 2017 Mazda Axela, otherwise known as the Mazda3 to the rest of the world.



Since there are no styling differences between the current JDM Axela and the overseas Mazda3 other than the name and engine specs, we’re going to assume that, if this brochure is real, then the same will apply to the upcoming mid-life facelift for Mazda’s compact model.

As you can see in the image shown here, changes to the exterior are subtle, with the front end gaining a reshaped grille with a relocated Mazda logo and shorter chrome extensions that now stop at the new headlamp clusters instead of extending above them, and a reworked bumper with new turning lights and a lower vent that follows the shape of the grille for a sleeker look. The exterior mirrors now incorporate turning signals too.

That’s all we can tell from this single picture, but if the recent update of the Mazda6 is any indication, we can expect some light tweaks to the rear and the interior as well.

The current generation Mazda3 was presented in mid-2013, so the time is ripe for a mid-cycle update.

Thanks to Ken for the photo!

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