2024 Mazda 2 and CX-3 receive new infotainment system, no news for Australia

The 2024 Mazda 2 and 2024 Mazda CX-3 have debuted in Japan – just as updated 2023 examples arrive in local showrooms.

Due in Japan in December for the Mazda 2 light hatch and February 2024 for the CX-3 light SUV, the revisions are centred around a new 8.8-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system for both vehicles.

Replacing the current seven or eight-inch MZD Connect units, the larger 8.8-inch unit features “improved sound and picture quality… and digitally transmitted audio and video”.

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It also provides support for Mazda’s connected-vehicle service, a feature in Japan similar to Toyota Connected Services, Hyundai Bluelink and Kia Connect that allows for SOS emergency calls, ‘advice’ calls, and a smartphone application for vehicle locating and remote control.

Mazda Australia said it is unable to comment on future model plans. Mazda’s connected services are not available in Australia at present.

The second-generation Mazda Connect system, which first appeared in the current Mazda 3 almost five years ago at the 2018 Los Angeles auto show, is now available in most Mazda passenger vehicles sold in Australia.

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Pictured: The 2023 Mazda 2's 7-inch MZD Connect system, with Apple CarPlay

However, the Mazda 2, 6, CX-3 and MX-5 retain older MZD Connect software in Australia, while the BT-50 ute has unique software identical to its Isuzu D-Max twin.

Japanese publication Best Car [↗] reports that the facelifted MX-5 sports car, expected to debut this year, could feature an 8.8-inch Mazda Connect system, exterior design tweaks, and a modified rear-view camera.

It is unclear whether the Mazda 6 sedan and wagon will receive the new system.

Other revisions for the Mazda 2 hatch include a new ‘sci-fi’ accessory package with lime green accents. The CX-3 also has new colours, wheel designs, and minor spec revisions identical to the latest Australian-spec model.

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A previous update for the Mazda 2 in Japan in 2021 also introduced wireless Apple CarPlay and a wireless phone charger, but these changes are yet to be applied to our Thai-built version.

The 2023 Mazda 2 hatch and sedan, launched in Australia this week, features an updated design, new colours, improved fuel efficiency for auto variants, and price rises of up to $1200.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Mazda CX-3 is arriving now with a reworked line-up including no manual or AWD options, wireless Apple CarPlay, more standard equipment and a blacked-out Touring SP variant – with price rises of up to $2790.

The 2024 Mazda 2 will launch in Japan in December, while the 2024 Mazda CX-3 will arrive in its home market in February 2024. Stay tuned to Wheels as further details emerge for Australia.