Next generation Mazda3 will debut by the end of the year

According to a company insider, Mazda will unveil the next generation Mazda3 by the end of the year with sales to begin in early 2009. Featuring a more aggressive design, the future Mazda3 aims to be a more stylish family hatchback. The exterior design will likely resemble Mazda6 from the rear and the Mazda2 from the front.

The engines will be carried over from the current generation, with diesel engines to get a bit stronger. A four-door sedan version of the new 3 will make its debut at the Los Angeles motor show in November, while the five-door hatchback 3 launches at the Bologna Show in Italy in December.