The fourth-generation Mazda 3 will make its global debut at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The compact sedan will get its styling cues from the Kai concept, which was showcased at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2017.

That's the word from Auto Express, which claims that Mazda also focused on improving the quality inside the cabin in an attempt to move the nameplate further upmarket. Apparently, Mazda wants the 3 to not only better compete with the Volkswagen Golf, but also to become a better option against premium cars like the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and the Audi A3.

The upcoming Mazda 3 will also be the first model to use the company's new SkyActive Vehicle Architecture. The new platform is lighter and will give the sedan better dynamics, as well as a more refined ride. It will also provide a lower seating position. More importantly, it was designed to support Mazda's new engine technology.

Specifically, Mazda will use the 3 to debut its new SkyActiv-X, a gasoline engine with Spark Controlled Compression Ignition, a technology that allows it to operate on both spark plug combustion and diesel-style compression ignition. In short, the SkyActiv-X engine will deliver gasoline-like performance with diesel fuel economy. A supercharged version with almost 190 horsepower is in the works for the Mazda 3, but the compact will also get the already familiar SkyActiv-G and SkyActiv-D units.

Stay tuned for updates on the next-generation Mazda 3. We'll be back as soon as we have more.

References

Read our full review on the 2018 Mazda3.

Read our full speculative review on the 2019 Mazda3.

Read more Mazda news.