New Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 is Mazda’s compact car, it was first introduced in 2004 to replace the Mazda 323, the second generation Mazda 3 went for sale in 2010. The Mazda 3 is based on the Ford C1 platform which is also used by the Ford Focus.

The 2010 Mazda 3 is a stylish small hatchback, with value and reliability within its DNA. All variants of the Mazda 3 are good fun to drive. The 3 is renowned for amazing grip and very responsive steering.

There are a few engines variations to choose from, the favourite is the 1.6 Diesel which gives a very impressive 62mpg – that’s hybrid territory. The 182 bhp 2.2 litre diesel is very sporty and fast but, still manages to return over 50 mpg. The 2.3 Litre MPS is the quickest of the bunch.

The new Mazda 3 has a firm ride at low speeds not firm enough to cause discomfort but enough to handle corners around town very comfortably. At higher speeds the ride smoothes out but the Mazda 3 does not lose any of its body control.

The only negative about the Mazda 3 is the refinement in the cabin, road noise seems to be a big problem in all variants of the 3, there have been complains of a constant rumble which gets worse over course surfaces.  Wind noise is less of an issue, the engines are very quiet too, even the diesels.

Petrol Mazda 3’s start from £14,230, the diesels are slightly more expensive at £16,505. For the 2.3 litre Mazda 3 MPS you are looking at £22,595.