UPDATE 1/24/19: Mazda has released pricing for the 2019 Mazda 3, which we've incorporated into this story. You can read full details here.

UPDATE 11/28/18: Mazda shared a few more details about the 3's powertrains, including that the previous car's 2.0-liter base engine is being dropped from the lineup for good. While the company hasn't finalized trim levels, Mazda vehicle development engineer Dave Coleman told C/D that numerous combinations of all-wheel drive, manual transmissions, and the upcoming Skyactiv-X engine are all "possible."

It seems that Mazda is pulling out all the stops with the 2019 Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback. The latest-generation compact rides on a completely new platform, sports an attractive design inside and out, is newly available with all-wheel drive, and eventually will be offered with an advanced new engine technology called Skyactiv-X.

The new 3 is slightly lower and longer than before, and its wheelbase is stretched 1.0 inch. Mazda has swapped its predecessor's more sophisticated multilink independent rear suspension for a cheaper and more compact torsion-beam setup. Mazda claims that this new suspension—together with more sound-deadening material—improves the car's quietness, but we hope the switch doesn't come at the expense of the 3's characteristically responsive handling. To this end, Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus system, the latest version of the system that ever so slightly reduces engine torque to sharpen steering feel at turn-in, is included.

View Photos Mazda

Mazda says that the 2019 3 will launch in the U.S. with a Skyactiv 2.5-liter inline-four mated to either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. The company isn't discussing power figures at this point, but we expect a similar output to the current 2.5-liter's 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive will be optional, a first for the 3, and Mazda says it's "possible" that it will be offered with the manual transmission. Later in the 3's run, a new Skyactiv-X inline-four with Mazda's compression-ignition-capable tech will join the lineup promising significantly improved fuel economy. Given that prototypes of this engine exist with both manual and automatic transmissions, expect the production version to offer both gearboxes; Mazda also says that Skyactiv-X can be paired with all-wheel drive (although that doesn't mean it will be).

The 3's new exterior and interior design seeks to impart a more premium, upscale character. The hatchback's lines are remarkably close to the Kai concept from last year, sharing the same sharply creased front end with slimmer headlights and a prominent front grille, chunky C-pillar, and futuristic-looking taillights with circular cutouts. In contrast to previous 3s, the sedan has its own distinct, more elegant profile, with an attractive rounded greenhouse and a nicely sculpted trunklid.

Interior materials appear to be significantly upgraded, with a stitched dash pad, metal trim for the climate-control knobs and central infotainment controller, a new steering-wheel design, and an 8.8-inch display screen. A dark red leather upholstery color will be offered on the hatchback, and options include a Bose audio system, numerous active-safety features, and a head-up display.

View Photos Mazda

The Mazda 3 goes on sale in March. Compared with its predecessor, the new car's base price is $2905 higher, starting at $21,895 for the sedan with six-speed automatic transmission. A fully loaded 3 hatchback with all-wheel drive can top $30,000, if only just, at $30,390.

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