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Sales of the Mazda CX-3 B-segment crossover has commenced in its home nation of Japan. The fifth model in the company's range to feature the entire arsenal of SkyActiv technology will be available exclusively with a diesel engine. Yes, you read that right.

The Japan-spec Mazda CX-3 will be powered solely by a 1.5 litre SkyActiv-D diesel engine producing a total of 105 PS at 4,000 rpm and 270 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm. In its cleanest state of tune, the Japanese Mazda CX-3 achieves a fuel economy figure of 25 km/l under the domestic JC08 test.

On this particular mill, Mazda has developed what it calls a Natural Sound Smoother system, which works to reduce the typical clatter associated with diesel engines. The Mazda CX-3 is the first production car to vehicle such an option and a Japan-only option it remains.

A total of three trim lines are made available to Japanese customers and all three can be ordered with either a front- or all-wheel drive configuration. Additionally, each variant can be had with a choice of either Mazda's SkyActiv-Drive automatic or Skyactiv-MT manual transmission. All in all, a total of 12 combinations are available to potential Japanese clients.

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Looks wise, you already know what to expect. The Mazda CX-3 sports the latest interpretation of the firm's 'Kodo - Soul of Motion' design language. Among the eight available colours is a newly-developed hue called Ceramic Metallic, which changes its appearances depending on the amount of light available.

Inside, and depending on the trim one opts for, the seats feature a black and white combination accent to go along with the various red highlights scattered along the door armrests, knee pads and seat piping. Elsewhere, the latest version of the MZD Connect infotainment system provides Internet-based radio services and navigation as well as a host of information including average fuel consumption.

As for safety kit, the Japan-spec CX-3 comes equipped with a host of i-ActivSense features. Notable safety systems found under this umbrella include Mazda's Radar Cruise Control system, Forward Obstruction Warning, Adaptive Front-lighting System and many more. The inclusion of Mazda's lightweight SkyActiv-Body in the CX-3's construction further reinforces its emphasis on safety.

On sale at all Mazda, Autozam and Mazda Anfini dealerships nationwide, pricing for the Mazda CX-3 begins at 2,376,000 yen (RM72,055) for the base XD trim with front-wheel drive and tops out at 3,024,000 yen (RM91,706.30) for the flagship XD Touring L Package with all-wheel drive.