Mazda has detailed an update to the 2 and CX-3 in Japan for the 2024 model year that brings a newer infotainment system to both models.

    Both models receive a larger 8.8-inch screen running the newer Mazda Connect infotainment system in Japan. It’ll be available in Japan from late December in the Mazda 2, and from February 2024 in the Mazda CX-3.

    This new infotainment system replaces the older 7.0- and 8.0-inch MZD Connect setups in Japanese-market Mazda 2 and CX-3 models. It also brings connected services, with emergency call, car finder, and remote control functionalities.

    We contacted Mazda Australia to confirm if the updates will be rolled out to local models, but a spokesperson said the company “can’t comment on any future product plans”.

    Both the Australian-market Mazda 2 and CX-3 are currently produced in Thailand. This change to the larger infotainment system has only been detailed for Japanese-built models thus far.

    A refreshed Mazda 2 hatchback and sedan range only launched in Australia this week, whereas an updated CX-3 SUV is due to launch imminently.

    The Mazda Connect infotainment system first appeared in the current-generation Mazda 3 which debuted back in 2018 at the Los Angeles motor show. It has since filtered down in various different sizes and forms to the majority of the local Mazda lineup.

    The only Mazda models that still have the older MZD Connect infotainment system in Australia are the Mazda 2, Mazda 6, CX-3 and MX-5. The BT-50 uses an unrelated infotainment system shared with the related Isuzu D-Max.

    It’s unclear if any of these models will move to receive the newer Mazda Connect infotainment system with a forthcoming update.

    Other changes the Japanese-market Mazda 2 has received with this update include a new “Sci-Fi” accessory bodywork package with lime green accents, including on the wheels.

    The Japanese-market CX-3, on the other hand, received a number of changes mirroring what the Australian-specification model has received.

    MORE: Everything Mazda 2
    MORE: Everything Mazda CX-3
    MORE: Mazda 2 review
    MORE: Mazda CX-3 review

    Jack Quick

    Jack Quick is an automotive journalist based in Melbourne. Jack studied journalism and photography at Deakin University in Burwood, and previously represented the university in dance nationally. In his spare time, he loves to pump Charli XCX and play a bit of Grand Theft Auto. He’s also the proud owner of a blue, manual 2020 Suzuki Jimny.

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