Mazda has used the Tokyo motor show to unveil a preview of what will become the next-generation Mazda 3.

The brand has further evolved its 'Kodo' design language in the creation of the compact hatchback concept, which it says will herald a new generation of Mazda.

The next-generation Mazda 3 will be the first to feature the next-generation Skyactiv-X petrol engine, as well as the new Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture.

We believe the new Mazda 3 on the updated platform won't be available until early or mid-2019. It’s likely the brand will maintain its current 2.0 and 2.5-litre powertrains and keep Skyactiv-X engines for range-topping models.

The 2.0-litre Skyactiv-X engines use a combustion system designed to deliver diesel fuel economy with the environmental impact of a low capacity petrol.