2014 Mazda Axela Review
The Mazda Axela is without question one of the most superior hatchbacks in the market today. It offers the same level of luxury and refinement as its closest European rivals such as VW Golf and Audi A3 while retaining the famed reliability of Japanese cars. Its alternatively sold as the Mazda3 in markets outside Japan and globally it accounts for the bulk of Mazda's worldwide sales. It competes with the VW Golf, Audi A3, Subaru Impreza and Toyota Auris.
Detailed Review
The third generation Mazda Axela that was in production from 2014 to 2019 is considered as one of the best hatchbacks in the market. It was designed using the ‘Soul of Motion’ concept that brought us the magnificent CX-5 and CX-9. Besides the dazzling design, the Axela employs the latest car technology which makes it one of the safest and luxurious hatchbacks you can buy.
The first generation known as the BK series was in production from 2003 to 2008. The second generation known as the BL series was in production from 2009 to 2013. The third generation known as the BM series was in production from 2014 to 2019. The third generation BP series has been in production from 2019 to present.
The 2014 Mazda Axela is offered with 4 engine options: a 1.5-Litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine, a 2.0-Litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine, a 2.2 SKYACTIV-D turbo diesel engine and a 2.0-Litre KYACTIV-HYBRID. These are linked to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed Electronically controlled automatic transmission and available in both 2WD and 4WD. We have done an in-depth analysis of these engines in the Mazda Axela Buyer’s Guide and if you want to know the most reliable and suitable engine for the Kenyan market, buy a copy here.
2014 Mazda Axela Grades( Hatchback and Saloon)
1. Mazda Axela 15C – This is the base model . It comes with the 1.5L engine, 2WD/4WD, 16-inch alloy rims, key start and CD/Radio player
2. Mazda Axela 15S – This is the sports grade that comes with 1.5L engine, 2WD/4WD, 17-inch alloy rims, steering shifts, and sports trim.
3. Mazda Axela 20S – This grade comes with the 2.0L engine, 2WD, 17-inch alloy rims, Keyless and steering controls. Other grades in this range include 20S Touring and 20S Touring L Package.
4. Mazda Axela XD – This is a high performance grade that comes with the 2.2L diesel engine, 2WD and 18-inch alloy rims
5. Mazda Axela HYBRID C – This grade comes with the hybrid engine, 2WD, 16-inch alloy rims, key start and CD/Radio player
6. Mazda Axela-S – This is the sports grade that comes with hybrid engine, 2WD, 17-inch alloy rims, steering shifts, and sports trim. The Mazda Axela-S L Package grade comes with leather seats.
2014 Mazda Axela Interior
On the inside, the Mazda Axela feels modern and luxurious. The dashboard is well laid out with everything neatly placed and within easy reach. The cabin feels comfortable with good legroom all round. At the first row, the legroom is great for both driver and passenger with enough space to recline as desired. At the second, the legroom is similarly good and the seats are well elevated and extra padded.
Cabin Storage
For the first row, there are 2 cup/bottle holders, door panel storage, dashboard storage, a glovebox and the center-box. For the second row, the storage is on the front seat jacket pockets and door side pockets.
2014 Mazda Axela Boot Space
For both the hatchback and the saloon, the boot space is sufficient to carry luggage for a family of five. For the hatchback, the rear seats can fold down in a split format to create extra space when required.
Extras: CD/Radio player, Navigation(Optional), Keyless Entry, Alloy Rims, Fog Lights, Spoiler, Heads-up display
2014 Mazda Axela Exterior
When it comes to exterior design, there are few cars that can match the Mazda Axela. It sets itself apart from its Japanese competitors such as the Toyota Auris and Subaru Impreza and it can be mistaken for high end German car. It’s sporty and modern with an aerodynamic body that appeals to both male and female clientele.
2014 Mazda Axela Safety Features: SRS Airbag System, Launch Assist(HLA), MAZDA PROACTIVE SAFETY, i-ACTIVESENSE, Danger Recognition Support System(DRSS), Forward Collision Warning(FOW), Lane Departure Warning System(LDWS), Adaptive Front Lighting System(AFS), Rear Vehicle Monitoring System(RVM), Smart Brake Support(SBS), Smart City Brake Support(SCBS), AT False Start Suppression Control
2014 Mazda Axela Fuel Consumption
2014 Mazda Axela 1.5L petrol Fuel Consumption: 20.6 km/L
2014 Mazda Axela 2.0L petrol Fuel Consumption: 17.7 km/L
2014 Mazda Axela 2.0L HYBRID Fuel Consumption: 30.8 km/L
2014 Mazda Axela 2.2L diesel Fuel Consumption: 21.4 km/L
2014 Mazda Axela Acceleration
2014 Mazda Axela 1.5L petrol accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 11.0 sec.
2014 Mazda Axela 2.0L petrol accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.8 sec.
2014 Mazda Axela 2.0L Hybrid accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.8 sec.
2014 Mazda Axela 2.2L turbo diesel accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 6.5 sec.
2014 Mazda Axela Fuel Tank Capacity: 51 Litres
2014 Mazda Axela Ground Clearance
The 2014 Mazda Axela has a ground clearance of 6.4 Inches(165mm) which is slightly low by Kenyan standards and may not clear some speed bumps. If its imported from Japan, you may need to increase the ground clearance. Read our guidelines here on how to safely increase a vehicle’s ground clearance.
2014 Mazda Axela Stability and Handling
The Mazda Axela has a degree of refinement not common in many Japanese cars. Its handling is similar to the Subaru Impreza but much more refined and responsive. Around corners at moderate speeds, it feels totally composed with no hint of under or over steer. The 2.2L diesel is the most enjoyable to drive with extremely fast acceleration and excellent low-end torque.
2014 Mazda Axela Service Intervals
Minor Service: at 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil
Major Service: at 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil
Mazda Axela Spare Parts Availability, Cost & Where to buy
Service parts are affordable and widely available in Kenya. Body parts are slightly expensive and sometimes not easily available.
2014 Mazda Axela Reliability
Before the third generation, the Mazda Axela was regarded as one of the most reliable hatchbacks in the market. However this changed with the introduction of diesel and hybrid engines as well as other systems that in as much as they make the Axela safe and fun to drive, they add a layer of complexity. We have put together a guide for Kenyan buyers on which engine you should buy and which one you should avoid. We also give you important tips on what to look out for when buying a Mazda Axela. All this information is contained in the guide that’s now available for purchase on our website. Click here to purchase the Mazda Axela Buyer’s Guide.
Resale Value: Average
Mazda Axela Competitors: VW Golf, Audi A3, Subaru Impreza and Toyota Auris.
Cost of Ownership
See Latest prices
What we like about the 2014 Mazda Axela
1. Excellent build quality
2. Spacious
3. Comfortable
Conclusion
The Mazda Axela is a luxurious car that offers a high level of safety and refinement. It competes with some of the best cars in the market and with proper maintenance it can serve you for many years without a problem.
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