Mazda 3 Hatchback 2004 - Present

The Mazda 3 is an extremely competent car. It suffers somewhat with being in the same class of car as the Ford Focus and possibly for that reason the British public have never really given it the attention that it deserves. It's a nice car to drive and offers good levels of finish and will return frugal fuel consumption rates with the leanest version a future congestion charge buster. The 2006 updates improved both aerodynamics and fuel consumption. They gave the 3 a leaner more purposeful look on the outside but it's the levels of room and comfort on the inside that have seen the greatest change. The road noise is extremely low at all speeds and the feel within the cabin is one of quality and solidity. The finish uses quality materials throughout and the ergonomic layout is both logical and natural. The controls are instinctive and designed to be used with confidence. The switchgear all feels like it's built to last and all operates smoothly. The engine options are relatively limited and could do with dropping one of the entry level options for another larger engine. The entry level 1.4 and 1.6 are both somewhat underpowered and can feel a bit limited on longer journeys. They do however offer good fuel figures at 42 and 40 mpg respectively. However if you're looking for economy the best performers are the diesel options. The 2.0 litre petrol option is quite pokey and really is the only option, save the MPS model, if you're looking for any level of performance. The Mazda engineers make the most of their engines with the five speed standard gearbox and the six speed box fitted to the 1.6 diesel. Both boxes are smooth and precise when driving and offer a good transfer of power to the wheels, making the most of the available output. The 3 performs well on the road and will certainly be good enough for the prospective buyers. The steering is firm and accurate, although not quite as responsive as the Focus, and the ride is confident. Cornering is light and the suspension gives good poise both into and out of the bends. Road surface rarely makes an intrusion into the journey and the comfort given by the seats means that the 3 offers a decent long distance journey for all of the occupants. The decent sized boot ensures that owners will be able to take the family away for a weeks holiday without having to give transport a second thought. That the Mazda 3 hasn't grabbed the publics attention is something of a pity as it's a nice car to drive and offers a lot of miles for a relatively small outlay. Perhaps as people become more aware of the impact their fuel consumption has on their surroundings some of the more frugal models will gain popularity but while their competition is so strong will that be enough?

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