Mazda announced that its Mazda3 compact car (known as the Axela in Japan) has reached a new milestone with the production of 3 million units, seven years and ten months after the launch of the first-generation model. The fastest-selling model in the company's current lineup of passenger cars is produced in three locations (Japan's Hofu Plant in Yamaguchi, China's CFMA plant in Nanjing and Thailand's AutoAlliance plant).The compact model is sold in approximately 90 countries and regions across the world.

The three-millionth Mazda3 was produced at the Hofu Plant in the form of a five-door hatchback for the Japanese market fitted with Mazda's MZR-2.0L engine and the i-stop system.

"The Mazda3 embodies all three elements of Mazda's DNA: distinctive design, exceptional functionality, and responsive handling and driving performance. Its sustained global success has seen it grow into Mazda's mainstay model, and it now comprises a third of all Mazda vehicle sales," said Hirotaka Kanazawa, Mazda's senior managing executive officer in charge of R&D.

"As we celebrate reaching three million units, I would like to thank the millions of Mazda3 customers for their support and reaffirm Mazda's commitment to delivering outstanding environmental and safety performance balanced with driving pleasure that goes beyond your expectations," the executive added.