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.