Mazda has announced that the total production volume of the Mazda3 (also known as Mazda Axela in Japan) exceeded five million units at the end of April 2016.
It is the second Mazda to reach five million units of production, following the Mazda Familia which preceded it. The Mazda3 sets a new record for Mazda by achieving the milestone figure in only twelve years and ten months since production of the model commenced in June 2003.
The Mazda3 accounts for approximately one third of the company's annual sales volume and is manufactured across multiple factories around the world, including the Hofu Plant in Japan, Changan Mazda Automobile Co. in China, AutoAlliance (Thailand) and Mazda de Mexico Vehicle Operation in Mexico. With the Mazda3 also assembled in Malaysia and Vietnam.
Since the first generation, Mazda has consistently worked to exceed expectations with the Mazda3, refining its dynamic design and responsive and enjoyable driving performance. Currently in its third generation, the Mazda3 was fully redesigned in 2013, adopting SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and KODO-Soul of Motion design to join Mazda's new-generation lineup.
Critically acclaimed around the globe, the model won Driven's Car of the Year, and the international Red Dot Design Award in 2014. It was named a Top 3 Finalist for World Car of the Year and World Design Car of the Year in 2014.