Mazda2 And CX-3 Updated In Japan With New Infotainment Suite

Latest Mazda2 hatchback in Japan featuring novel new 'Sci-Fi' exterior package option.

The Mazda2 hatchback, as well as its CX-3 lifted crossover SUV twin, have both been updated in its Japanese home market with a brand new infotainment system. On top of which, the Mazda2 hatch also gets a striking new ‘Sci Fi’ exterior package option available in the land of the rising sun too.

The upgraded ‘Mazda Connect’ infotainment that both models share sees the adoption of a larger new 8.8-inch display screen. This replaces the current ‘MZD Connect’ 7.0- and 8.0-inch display setup, and are set to become available in Japan starting late Dec in the Mazda2, and from Feb 2024 in the CX-3.

In Japan, both the Mazda2 hatch and CX-3 crossover SUV now sport new 8.8-inch infotainment displays powered by the new 'Mazda Connect' operating system.

The upgraded hardware brings new connected services with emergency call, car finder, and remote control functionalities added. This is the same suite that made its first appearance in the current-gen Mazda3, and has since found its way into other contemporary Mazda models – the Mazda2 and CX-3 being the latest.

Besides this, the Japanese market Mazda2 hatch also gains a new optional ‘Sci-Fi’ exterior package. This is easily distinguished by striking additions like the lime green accents for its grille surround, wheels spokes, side mirror caps, and its rear spoiler.

The 'Sci-Fi' exterior package adds striking lime green accents in the grille surround, wheels spokes, side mirror caps, and the rear spoiler of the Mazda2 hatch.

Beyond what we’ve just detailed, it appears little else has changed in both the Mazda2 hatch and its lifted CX-3 twin for the Japanese market. It’s unclear if the new Mazda Connect infotainment hardware and operating system will make its way into export versions for other regional markets like ours.

Locally, brand importers and distributors Bermaz last updated the CX-3 back in Oct last year where it introduced new ‘Core’ trimline variants. As for the Mazda2 hatch and sedan, no indications of the model in its most recent form as launched in Thailand earlier this year will enter our market just yet too.