2020 Mazda Axela Review
The Mazda Axela also known as the Mazda 3 in other markets is a premium compact car that has won the hearts of many Kenyans thanks to its stylish exterior design that is graced by the Kodo design language inspiring sophistication and elegance from every angle. The interior is quite spacious and it is furnished by soft touches and leather upholstery elevating its premium feel. The SkyActiv technology ensures its powertrains strike a perfect balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It competes with the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai i30, Subaru Impreza, and Ford Focus.
Detailed Review
The first generation of the Mazda Axela codenamed BK launched its production in 2003 and continued up to 2008. From 2008 to 2013, the second generation of the Axela designated as BL was manufactured. The third generation of the Axela dubbed BM/BN was in production from 2013 to 2019. The Mazda Axela is currently in its fourth iteration of production known as BP.
The 2020 Mazda Axela comes with three engine options, a 1.5 L (Petrol), a 2.0 L (petrol), and a 1.8 L (Diesel) linked to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
2020 Mazda Axela Grades
- Mazda Axela 15 S- This grade comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, climate control, power mirrors, Mazda Connect infotainment system embedded with Apple Car Play & Android Auto, and a rear-view camera.
- Mazda Axela 20 S- This grade features a G-Vectoring Control Plus, an autonomous emergency brake system, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, power windows, keyless entry & start, and front & rear parking sensors.
- Mazda Axela XD- This grade comes with a blind spot monitor, a rear-cross traffic alert, a head-up display, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, a centralized door lock, LED headlights, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Mazda Axela X Proactive- This grade has a leather-wrapped steering wheel, traffic sign recognition, heated front seats, 18-inch dark alloy wheels, leather upholstery, keyless entry & start, and power mirrors.
- Mazda Axela X L Package- This grade boasts a lane-keep assist, a lane departure warning, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, a 360-degree view camera, a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system, and a push-start button.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The 2020 Mazda Axela has a spacious cabin with a driver-centric cockpit. The layout is clean and uncluttered. At the center of the dashboard sits a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple Car Play & Android Auto ensuring a seamless connection between the vehicle’s technology and the passenger’s devices. A dual-zone climate control ensures room temperature is maintained in the cabin. The cabin is well-insulated to prevent outside noises from causing discomfort to the occupants. The first row boasts plenty of legroom and headroom. The second room has ample knee room and headroom.
Cabin Storage
The 2020 Mazda Axela encompasses numerous storage compartments that are used to either keep or hold the gears of its occupants for ease of access and reach. The first row has a glove box, a center console, door panel storage, and two cupholders. The second row includes door pockets, two cupholders, and jacket pockets.
Boot Space
The 2020 Mazda Axela offers 295 liters of boot space for the hatchback and 450 liters of space for the sedan when all the seats are in use. The rear seats can be folded to create more room for more cargo.
Exterior
The 2020 Mazda Axela is available in two body designs, a sedan and a hatchback. Similar to its predecessors, this model is graced by Mazda’s Kodo design language that emphasizes sleek lines and sculpted surfaces making the vehicle appear in motion even though it is stationary. A chrome-accented grille adorned with the Mazda emblem asserts the presence of this vehicle. LED headlights add a touch of modernity. The lower fascia incorporates a front bumper that is furnished with subtle chrome embellishments.
Smooth flowing lines and sculpted surfaces enhance the dynamism of the Axela. It comes with a variety of alloy wheels that add a contemporary look to the car improving its overall aesthetic. The side mirrors are integrated with auto-dimming headlights injecting more allure to the vehicle. The hatchback has a gently sloping roofline integrated with a roof spoiler lending the Axela a sporty look. The sedan features a subtle trunk spoiler.
The rear encompasses distinctive taillights and turn signals. The exhaust outlet is integrated into the rear bumper maintaining an elegant look at the rear. The 2020 Mazda Axela is available in a variety of colors to cater to the divergent preferences and desires of its wide fanbase.
2020 Mazda Axela Safety Features
The 2020 Mazda Axela has anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, a lane departure warning, a blind spot monitor, a lane-keep assist, Isofix child seat anchors, and an autonomous emergency brake system.
2020 Mazda Axela Fuel Consumption
2020 Mazda Axela 1.5 L Petrol engine consumption- 19.4 km/l on average
2020 Mazda Axela 2.0 L Petrol engine consumption- 15.2 km/l on average
2020 Mazda Axela 1.8 L Diesel engine consumption- 20.3 km/l on average
2020 Mazda Axela Acceleration
2020 Mazda Axela 1.5 L Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.6 secs
2020 Mazda Axela 2.0 L Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.6 secs
2020 Mazda Axela 1.8 L Diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.9 secs
The 2020 Mazda Axela Fuel Tank Capacity: 51 liters
Ground Clearance: The 2020 Mazda Axela has a ground clearance of 5.5 inches
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires an Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
Mazda Axela spare parts are easily available in major towns. However, its body components are somewhat expensive.
Stability And Handling
The 2020 Mazda Axela delivers a smooth and comfortable driving experience. The steering wheel is light, precise, and responsive. The suspension system is finely tuned to absorb road imperfections while simultaneously striking a balance between sportiness and comfort. Owing to its low ground clearance, it is advisable not to cruise on off-road terrains as you risk damaging its body components.
The driver has excellent visibility and command of the oncoming traffic. The 16-inch alloy wheels not only improve the overall appearance of the vehicle but also have a firm grip on the road. The engine works in tandem with the transmission system delivering a smooth start and decent acceleration. The braking system provides reliable stopping power ready to avert any kind of disaster. The Axela experiences minimal body rolls when cornering at high speeds thanks to its low ground clearance resulting in a low center of gravity.
Reliability
Mazda boasts a top reliability ranking thanks to its longevity in the production of automobiles. The Axela is a product of top-notch engineering prowess. However, like any other vehicle, it is not immune to problems. Transmission issues are the most commonly reported problems. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such problems. Refer to the Mazda Axela buyer’s guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge you to always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Resale Value: Good
Mazda Axela Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai i30, Subaru Impreza, and Ford Focus.
What we like about the 2020 Mazda Axela
- Stylish design
- Engaging driving experience
- Stellar fuel economy
- Comfortable ride
What we don’t
- Limited cargo space
Conclusion
The 2020 Mazda Axela boasts a stylish design that inspires confidence from every angle. Its compactness and agility will be appreciated by urban dwellers for it can easily maneuver in confined spaces or even traffic. Individuals with small households will find it ideal thanks to its advanced safety features and spacious cabin. The SkyActiv technology ensures there’s a balance between performance for a thrilling driving experience and fuel efficiency. Compared to its rivals, its purchasing price is somewhat manageable.
To buy/import the 2020 Mazda Axela, send your request to EMAIL i[email protected] OR you can CONTACT +254 722 469 360
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