The 2018 Mazda with a 1500cc petrol engine is a vehicle that successfully bridges the gap between executive luxury and everyday practicality. By blending the upscale aesthetics of the larger Atenza with a more agile and efficient platform, it serves as a sophisticated choice for drivers who value design and technology as much as fuel economy.

​The exterior is defined by Mazda’s "KODO: Soul of Motion" design, which uses flowing lines to create a sense of movement even when the car is stationary. This elegance carries into the cabin, where the focus is on high quality materials and driver ergonomics. With the premium features such as heated seats and a power boot the interior moves beyond the standard "economy" feel, offering a refined environment that rivals more expensive European sedans. The layout is minimalist, placing the MZD Connect infotainment screen and tactile controls within easy reach to ensure the driver remains focused on the road.

​Under the hood, the 1.5L Skyactiv-G engine is a masterclass in efficiency. Unlike many small engines that feel sluggish, this unit uses a high compression ratio and a direct injection system to deliver a responsive, smooth power delivery. It is perfectly paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that is tuned to behave more like a manual, locking up early to provide a direct connection between your foot and the wheels. This setup is particularly effective for urban driving, where the idle stop system helps maintain an impressive fuel economy of roughly 18 km/L, making it one of the most cost-effective non-hybrid cars in its class.

​Mazda’s philosophy of "Jinba Ittai" (horse and rider as one) is evident in how the car handles. This 2018 model features G-Vectoring Control, a subtle technology that adjusts engine torque the moment you turn the steering wheel. This shifts the car’s weight to the front tires, providing more grip and a more predictable, stable cornering experience. The result is a car that feels light and nimble in city traffic but remains planted and confident on the highway, reducing the steering corrections a driver has to make and making long trips less tiring for everyone on board.

​Safety in this model is proactive rather than just reactive. The i-Activsense suite, which includes collision control and parking sensors, uses a network of cameras and radar to monitor your surroundings. The Smart City Brake Support can detect obstacles ahead and prepare the brakes or even apply them automatically to prevent low-speed accidents. Combined with traction control and a rigid chassis, the car offers a high degree of "peace of mind" engineering, ensuring that technology is always working in the background to protect the occupants.

​Despite its sporty silhouette, the car is highly functional. The inclusion of power windows and a power boot simplifies daily errands, while the quiet cabin insulation a specific area of improvement for the 2018 facelift ensures a peaceful commute. It is a vehicle designed for the modern driver: someone who needs a reliable, fuel-sipping daily commuter but isn't willing to sacrifice style, comfort, or the joy of driving.