The second generation of one of Canada’s top selling vehicles was introduced to the Canadian public at the 2009 Montréal International Auto Show, in both 4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback body styles.

Trim levels for the 2010 Mazda3 are carried over from the outgoing model – GX, GS and GT – but with more standard and optional features, some of which are unique to the segment.

The entry-level GX will be uniquely available in hatchback bodystyle (Mazda3 Sport) in Canada. The GX is powered by a 148-hp 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, and mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Four wheel independent suspension and power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and brake force distribution (EBFD).

Other standards include a tilt and telescopic steering column, AM/FM/CD player with MP3 capability and AUX input, power door mirrors, locks and windows, and 16-inch wheels. Mazda3 Sport GX further gets an anti-theft alarm, rear wiper, roof spoiler and keyless entry. Passive safety items include dual front airbags, side airbags, side curtain airbags, and front seat active headrests. Air-conditioning and a five-speed automatic with sequential shift are optional. The GX sedan starts at $15,995, while the hatchback carries a $1,000 premium.

The next level up (GS) uses the same 2.0-litre “four” with five-speed manual in sedan version but the hatchback moves up to a 167-hp 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine coupled with a six-speed manual (the same combination used on the new Mazda6).

The sedan is priced from $18,995 and adds air conditioning, anti-theft alarm, keyless entry, heated door mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlight control, rain sensing wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, Bluetooth hands-free capability, two additional tweeter speakers and silver trim on the instrument panel. The hatchback also adds standard fog lights. Available on both bodystyles, an optional Comfort Package adds a power moonroof and traction/stability control is optional, as is the five-speed automatic.

The 2.5 “four”/six-speed manual tandem is the basis of the top-of-the-line GT trim. The list of standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels with 205/50R17 performance tires, traction/stability control, fog lights, mirror mounted turn signals, Bi-Xenon (HID) headlamps, LED taillights, dual exhaust tips, cloth sports seats with adjustable heating, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual zone automatic climate control, Multi Information Display (MID), and a 6-disc CD changer with MP3 capability. The Mazda3 GT sedan starts at $ 22,595 and the Mazda3 Sport GT at $ 23,595.

An optional Luxury Package adds leather seats and eight-way adjustable power driver’s seat with memory to the GT, while a GT E Package features class-leading features such as colour Multi Information Display (MID) with Navigation, keyless entry and start, a 10-speaker BOSE audio system, satellite radio and an Adaptive Front Lighting System with self-levelling Bi-Xenon headlights. The power moonroof and five-speed automatic are standalone options.

Launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, the compact Mazda3 has earned more than 90 awards around the globe, including the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada’s 2004 Canadian Car of the Year. They go on sale at the end of January 2009, priced from $15,995.