The 2014 Tokyo Auto Salon->ke4600 will feature its share of new concepts coming from Japanese automakers. Mazda->ke53, for one, has a handful that it's prepared to unveil and one of them, at least the one that got our attention is called the Axela Sport Mazda Design Concept.

Don't be fooled by the Axela name, this model is actually the Mazda3 in other parts of the world other than Japan. So it takes the look of one and thanks to a MazdaSpeed exterior, it's been treated to a slew of new aerodynamic components that's highlighted by a front splitter and aerodynamic side skirts.

On top of that, special graphics were also splashed into the Axela's body, not to mention the inclusion of performance modifiers like a strengthened chassis, Brembo brakes, and a new set of black alloy wheels.

The package itself is quite impressive for the model, giving credence tot he prevailing thought that the Axela, or the 3 as its known in this part of the world, is a model that's right for customization.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2014 Mazda3

2014 Mazda Axela Sport Mazda Design Concept

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Mazda Axela Sport Mazda Design Concept
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 155
  • Torque: 150
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

2014 Mazda3

The only car to be named a finalist in both the North American Car of the Year and the European Car of the Year awards, the new-generation Mazda3’s inclusion is a testament to the kind of car Mazda has built. The new Mazda3 adopted a new design language similar to what we saw with the new Mazda6.

The Mazda3 is offered with a choice of two engines: a SKYACTIV-G, 2.0-liter gasoline engine and a new SKYACTIV-G, 2.5-liter gasoline engine. The 2.0-liter engine delivers a total of 155 horsepower, while the 2.5-liter version produces a total of 184 horsepower. Both engines are offered with a standard SKYACTIV-MT, six-speed manual transmission, while a SKYACTIV-Drive, six-speed automatic transmissions is offered as an alternative.