Mazda 3
Ratings
4 stars
Summary
The looks are familiar, but subtle changes under the surface have dramatically improved Mazda's Focus rival
Review
The Mazda 3 has already built up a devoted following from people drawn to its combination of good looks, strong performance and Mazda reliability. Which is why a mid-life facelift has, sensibly, concentrated on sharpening the 3's driving experience and improving refinement.
It's a handsome, distinctive car - one that rises above the samey-ness of much of the rest of the segment. The cabin is reasonably spacious by class standards, although rear seat occupants enjoy less space than in some roomier rivals and the boot is on the tight side. The interior is well finished and all models come with decent standard equipment.
Mazda has responded to complaints made about poor refinement in the original car with a host of changes. These include a new underbody cover to smooth the passage of air and improved door seals. The overall effect has been to bring about a welcome reduction in cabin noise at higher speeds, and although the 3 is still louder than something like a Golf, it's now a tolerable long-distance companion.
The 3 keeps its sporty chassis set-up, meaning a ride that feels over-firm over rougher British surfaces. The pay-off is agile roadholding thanks to a combination of agile responses and excellent resistance to body roll in cornering.
Buyers can choose between three petrol and two diesel motors. The base 1.4 litre petrol engine revs smoothly and eagerly, although it needs to be thrashed to deliver much in the way of overtaking punch. The 1.6 litre petrol motor gives brawnier performance, and the range-topping 2.0 litre petrol is faster yet - although marred by a coarse soundtrack. Revised aerodynamics have also helped to cut fuel economy and emissions - the 1.6 litre petrol drops two brackets for company car tax users.
Two 1.6 litre diesels are also available, although the less powerful 89 bhp version feels a bit underpowered. Both offer brilliant fuel economy.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
4 star
The Mazda 3 remains one of the sharpest looking family hatchbacks around. A refreshing alternative to 'default choice' rivals.
Handling
4 star
Agile and composed over twisty roads - the 3 is great fun to drive quickly. Precise steering remains the lynchpin of the dynamic equation.
Comfort
3 star
Mazda has tried hard to give the 3 a more supple ride quality, but it?s still too firm for British roads and falls behind many of its mainstream rivals?. Some road noise is also evident, regardless of speed.
Quality & Reliability
4 star
There's no doubting the durability of the Mazda 3. It carries on the Japanese firm's reputation for high grade materials that are put together with care and attention to detail.
Performance
3 star
Mazda has improved the 1.4- and 2.0-litre petrols, but the 1.6-litre petrol remains the engine to go for. The least powerful turbodiesel struggles on faster roads, so best to go for the more potent 107bhp version.
Roominess
3 star
Decent space for occupants, but the boot is short on volume compared to key rivals.
Running Costs
3 star
Fuel economy is respectable for petrol versions and very good for diesels. Retained value is slightly better than the segment average but servicing can be pricey.
Value for money
4 star
The entry-level version still does without side curtain airbags, which is a shame, but the rest of the range benefits from good equipment levels and prices that undercut most rivals.
