Mazda is on a mission to stylistically update its lineup from the grin faced models of yore to a more contemporary style first seen on the new CX-5 and then later on the new Mazda6. As expected, the upcoming 2014 Mazda3 will also receive the same treatment. The car’s basic design has been leaked in patent photos directly from Mazda.

The patent drawings highlight two key design elements that Mazda is especially concerned with protecting: how the headlights meet the grill and the general tail light design. What do you think about these drawings? Is it an improvement over the existing model? Let us know in the comments below.