With Mazda leading the way with a total of four nominations, more than any other manufacturer, the finalists in the 2016 World Car Awards have been announced. The all-new Mazda MX-5 and all-new Mazda CX-3 have been named as finalists for the overall World Car of the Year title, plus both the MX-5 and the CX-3 are listed as finalists for the World Car Design of the Year award.
Launched last summer, the all-new Mazda CX-3’s style, quality and generous equipment tally help it stand out from other small crossovers in the market place. Available with 120ps and 150ps SKYACTIV-G petrol, plus 105ps SKYACTIV-D diesel engines, all versions of the sophisticated all-new Mazda CX-3 feature MZD-Connect with 7-inch colour touchscreen and Multimedia commander, while Sport Nav models are fitted with Mazda’s Active Driving Display system – a segment first head-up display system.
Having made its UK public debut at the 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the fourth generation of Mazda’s iconic MX-5 has already claimed a host of influential awards including being named 2016 Japan Car of the Year, 2016 What Car? Best Convertible and 2015 Auto Express Roadster of the Year. With a choice of 131ps 1.5-litre or 160ps 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engines, the nine model all-new Mazda MX-5 core range, has been enhanced with the launch of limited edition all-new Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro.
The lightest MX-5 since the iconic original, the all-new Mazda MX-5 is shorter, lower and wider than the outgoing car, with the smallest overhangs and lowest centre of gravity yet. These dynamic proportions combined with Mazda’s KODO: Soul of Motion design philosophy ensure the latest version of the all-new Mazda MX-5’s styling reflects its focus on driving pleasure in a uniquely contemporary and dynamic way.
Reaffirming Mazda’s dominance of the affordable sports car sector, the all-new Mazda MX-5 maintains the classic rear-wheel drive layout and 50:50 weight distribution it’s famed for, yet developed under the ethos of ‘innovate in order to preserve’ , Mazda has enhanced the sports car’s legendary agility, fun and engagement, while simultaneously improving safety, refinement and efficiency.
The annual World Car Awards are judged by a panel of 73 leading automotive journalist and the winners will be announced at the New York International Motor Show on March 24th.