Autophobic?!

Mazdas are interesting little vehicles. Sometimes the manufacturer hits a home run and sometimes they hit a ball so foul it is a wonder they are still in business.

I would have to say, from sight alone, that the new Mazda3 Hatchback is a winner. I like it. I made its debut fairly recently, at the motor show in Bologna — Italy’s big motor show, don’t you know.

In Japan, it is known instead as the Mazda Axela. It is the second generation of hatchbacks, and it has the same design cues as the well loved sedan.

No matter what you call it, you cannot deny the fact that it is cute. Apparently the vehicle was designed to be more expressive and emotional.

Well … okay, man, whatever you say. Did it work to that end? Well, if it makes you feel emotional, I guess so. All I know is that it looks like a speedy, sleek little dream.