Mazda is officially launching its fourth generation Mazda3 for Europe during Geneva 2019. The new compact features some important changes from the previous generation, meaning that the redesign is more like a revolution than an evolution. The main changes are more evident in the hatchback version, as its rear design is in line with the Kai Concept presented in Tokyo in October 2017. The Mazda3 looks more aggressive and much sportier, which will be its main attribute in the increasingly competitive but stalling compact segment.
Unfortunately for the brand, the Mazda3 has never played an important role in the European mainstream compact segment. Last year, registrations fell by 11% to almost 40,000 units, or 1.9% market share. And it occupied the 15th position in the compact segment, which included all bodytypes. The hatchback version counted for 85% of this total, but registrations fell by 9%. There were almost 6,000 units registered of the sedan version, which was the 4th best-selling mainstream compact sedan, only behind the Fiat Tipo, Toyota Corolla and Opel/Vauxhall Astra.