2009 Mazda3 to preview carmaker’s new design trend

The facelifted version of the Mazda3 due next year will showcase the carmaker’s new styling direction that will eventually feature across Mazda’s entire lineup. The new look will be dominated by a stronger front-end with a distinctive five-point grille in the shape of a shield, fluid panels and longer wheelbases with shorter overhangs.

A more unified design language and more eye-catching proportions will feature across the lineup, revealed Mazda design chief Laurens van den Acker. “Within the next three years, you will start to see my cars on the road,” he explained during an interview with Automotive News. “One of the advantages of being a small company is that we can afford to be a little more provocative.”

Mazda has unveiled several dramatic concept vehicles over the past 12 months, previewing many styling elements expected to make it to production. The styling will also have to look fresh through next decade when Mazda is expected to introduce a range of new platforms.