The new 2014 Mazda3 is here… but is it a game-changer?

The Mazda3 has always been somewhat of an enigma among compact cars. Unlike its peers that lean towards the efficient and practical side of the so-called econobox equation, the Mazda3 has always been a spunky alternative, and has balanced efficiency and performance quite nicely. Consequently, it’s the most fun-to-drive vehicle in the C Segment and a serious value, relatively speaking. It surely isn’t boring like some of the other boxes.

For months now, unsubstantiated rumors about the redesigned Mazda3 have been swirling around the web, along with several fuzzy spy images and ambiguous artist renderings. In addition, there has been lots of speculation, particularly with how the zoom-zoom automaker was going to incorporate its new Kodo design language -- which is intended to “embody the tension of power and speed caught in motion” and made its first appearance on the automaker’s Shinari concept back in 2010 -- as well as how the company’s lineup of Skyactiv technologies would affect the vehicle’s fun-to-fling character.

All of that conjecture -- well, most of it -- was put to rest today, as Mazda unveiled its all-new 2014 Mazda3 in New York City this morning.

Lower and leaner than its predecessor, the new Mazda3 shares almost nothing with the previous generation. As expected, it’s based on the same platform that underpins the CX-5, and takes it styling cues from the new Mazda6, complete with muscular fenders, a distinctive greenhouse and a sloping roofline, which also gives the car a strong family resemblance to the new Mazda2. The longer wheelbase helps to give it a more commanding stance and shorter overhangs front and back.

While Mazda claims the infamous “smiley face” that has adorned the car’s front-end for years is a thing of the past, I disagree. Check out the photos: It has been softened somewhat, but it’s there. In fact, it looks bit buck-toothed like Tow Mater from Pixar’s animated feature Cars. After saying that, it doesn’t look bad or cartoonish. The aggressive headlamps and upright grille translate nicely and, thus, are quite appealing.