2018 Mazda Axela Review

The Mazda Axela ‘accelerate’ and ‘excellent’, also known as the Mazda 3 in other markets, has been in production for three generations since 2003. it is available as a sedan or hatchback. The first generation known as the BK was produced between 2003 and 2007. the second generation the BL lasted from 2008 to 2012 before being replaced by the third generation BM/BN which was in production from 2013 to 2019. the fourth generation BP has been in production from 2019 to present.

The 2018 Mazda Axela is offered with three powertrains; the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G PE-VPS I4 and 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G PY-VPS I4 petrol engines and the 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D SH-VPTS I4 diesel engine. They are paired with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2018 Axela has a well-designed and spacious interior with high-quality materials that give it a premium feel. The front seats are supportive for both driver and passenger, even on long journeys. The driving position is comfortable thanks to the wide range of seat and steering wheel adjustments. The rear seats are also spacious, with good legroom and headroom for two adults.

The 2018 Axela also has two full sets of LATCH car-seat connectors on the rear outboard seats and an upper tether on the rear centre seat for child seat installation.

The 2018 Mazda Axela has 12.4 cubic feet of cargo space in the sedan and 20.2 cubic feet in the hatchback. If extra space is needed, the rear seats in both models can be folded down to create a flat cargo floor.

2018 Mazda Axela Exterior

The 2018 Axela has a stylish and contemporary exterior design based on the Kodo design language. The 2018 Axela’s front end features a large grille, narrow headlights and a muscular bumper. The side profile of the Axela is characterised by its sloping roofline, sharp creases and pronounced wheel arches. The rear of the Axela features sleek tail lights, a small spoiler and a dual exhaust system.

Safety features:  airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, tyre pressure monitoring system, reversing camera, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control and Smart City Brake Support.

Performance

The 2018 Axela offers remarkable performance on the road thanks to Mazda’s innovative Skyactiv powertrain and chassis design. The 2.0L SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine produces 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5L SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine produces 185 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The 2.2-litre diesel engine produces 173 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is impressive for a four-cylinder diesel.
The 2018 Axela’s suspension is well tuned and provides excellent stability in corners and on uneven roads. It also has a low centre of gravity, which helps prevent body roll.In terms of handling, the 2018 Axela offers sharp handling and responsive steering, making it feel planted to the road and easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. It also offers a cushioned ride and has powerful brakes that ensure a good time once you get up to speed.

Reliability

The Mazda Axela is considered to be one of the most reliable cars on the market due to its high-quality construction and use of reliable components.
No car is perfect and the Axela is no exception. There have been a few reported problems with the Body Control Module (BCM), power steering failure, engine stalling, check engine light problems, broken rear coil springs, failed brake callipers and bad wheel bearings.
These problems are relatively rare as the majority of Mazda Axela owners have reported no issues with their cars.

If you’re considering buying or currently own a Mazda Axela, it’s important that you read the buyer’s guide and owner’s Manual. We also recommend that you maintain your vehicle regularly to minimise any problems that may arise.

Pros

• Pleasant to drive
• Feels premium
• Fuel efficient

Cons

• Infotainment system can be slow and glitchy
• Limited boot space in saloon models

Verdict

The 2018 Mazda Axela is a great choice for buyers looking for a compact car that’s more than just a point-to-point device. It offers inspiring performance on the road and great fuel efficiency. Its cabin also features high-quality materials with a premium feel, like its German rivals the Audi A3 and VW Golf.