[Spook]

From what I know, neither Sat Nav nor Xenon are available. Leather and sunroof are not std and are not available as factory options, though probably dealer fit options.

Cruise control not std on any of the models, available as option. Pricing is pretty as stated before by CBT, but in summary:

(indicative prices, 5 spd manual)
Neo $22,500
Maxx $ 26,000
Maxx Sport $ 26,700
SP23 $30,700

Power pack $700 (option on Neo, STD for others)
- power windows and mirrors
Safety pack $1500 (option on Neo, STD for others)
- side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD
So a Neo with P&S packs is $24,700

A site that is usually pretty up to date with auto news is http://www.goauto.com.au

According to them, and I quote:
"The Mazda3 small car will soon be on sale in Australia. Watch out for our first local drive and all the price and spec details right here on Wednesday, January 14".

So I guess that pretty much confirms the local launch date. Make sure you have plenty of tissues on hand to wipe away the drool

 

[Spook]

Yep, remember reading about that too (ie no sat nav). At least you get an extra storage space.

 

[Spook]

Yes, information leading up to the launch has been scarced indeed! I signed up/registered on the M3 website in Nov, and the only news I was ever sent in these 2 or so months was on Dec 19 when Mazda announced the colours/trim schemes available. Mazda did not even send a brouchure or anything... at least we're certain that the launch is definitely this week, so the wait is almost over.

What I really REALLY what to know is if the model I'm interested in (read can afford), the Maxx, has the clear taillights and electroluminescent gauges. Those would be top of my wish list.

 

[Spook]

Yes, comebacktomorrow. We're both after the Maxx but I get a feeling we won't have to try and cram those desirable features into $700, because they just might be standard for Maxx.

Some encouraging news is that in Canada, the normal Mazda6 has red taillights - only their Sports hatch has clear lights. Yet in Australia, it's clear taillights for all variants. Also, with the Mazda2 facelift coming this month, I've read that this little brother will get the 'same taillight treatment as the M6 and M3'. What does that mean? Open for interpretation but I think that suggests clear taillights for all M3 (and M2). Of course, I may be proved wrong in a few days time.

My dealer only tells me what Mazda tells him: Maxx Sport will get an enhanced interior and exterior!! And what is that? Errr.... and into speculation territory we go. Interior we know (ie the trim), exterior, well, he tossed up items like fog lamps, front lip spoiler, side skirts and rear boot lip spoiler. MAYBE.

Re the grip about prices in Canada and US, I've given up trying to compare them with Oz. The market is so much bigger with so much more competition that prices are lower. *sigh*

 

[Spook]

Ok folks, the wait is almost over. GoAuto's e-news says that "Mazda will announce the pricing of its new 323-replacing 3 model on Thursday morning to its dealer body".

The short article also mentioned the lineup (ie Neo-SP23), and here's what it says about the Maxx Sport: "... is the one you haven't heard of before and fundamentally it's a Maxx with a bodykit and larger alloys, designed to appeal to a younger audience". Expected sales per month is 1,700 zoom zooms.

I'd imagine that all spec details will also be released at the same time. But as to when the cars will hit the showrooms, fingers crossed that it'll be by this weekend.

 

[Spook]

Hello Overtime. Please enter your location.

Sorry to say, but I'm pretty sure factory leather will not be an option. However I'd expect your dealer may be able to help you out in that department as a dealer fit option.