Mazda had told us that it would present a hybrid version of the Axela, which is the Japanese domestic market name for the new Mazda3, back in the summer, and now it has announced a launch date, while also providing first details and photos.

For the time being, the Axela Hybrid will be available exclusively as a sedan in Japan, with no mention on whether it will be followed up by a hatchback body style and if it will be sold overseas at some point.

Mazda said that this is the first time that a Japanese automaker is offering three different powertrain types (gasoline, diesel and hybrid) in a single model in the Japanese market.

The Hybrid model links a dedicated SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine to an electric motor, a battery and a continuously variable electronic transmission driving the front wheels. While no performance numbers were announced, Mazda said the new Axela Hybrid delivers a fuel economy of 30.8 km per liter under JC08 mode, which is equal to 3.2l/100km, 72.4mpg US and 87.0mpg UK.

Sales of the Axela Hybrid will kick off in Japan next month, with prices starting from 2,373,000 Yen (about US$24,100 or €17,800).

Story References: Mazda via Worldcarfans

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