Mazda 3 review

• For: Styling, handling, equipment
• Against: Cramped in back, no diesel option
• Verdict: Great looks and superb handling for a hatchback

You could buy the Mazda 3 on the strength of its styling alone. Available as a five-door hatchback or four-door saloon, it’s the most head-turning car in its class – but there’s more to the 3 than just sleek looks.

Take the engines, which are both non-turbocharged petrol units, including a rather clever 2.0-litre Skyactiv-X developing 180hp.

Although it offers 10hp less than the 2.0 Skyactiv-G, it uses compression injection technology to provide the kind of torque you’d expect from a diesel.

It will even deliver up to 51.4 miles per gallon.

Standard equipment is good, while some of the higher trim levels, particularly GT Sport and GT Sport Tech, edge the Mazda into premium territory.

Throw in a classy cabin and superb road manners, and you begin to wonder why the 3 isn’t challenging the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf in the sales chart.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2019
• Facelifted: Not yet
• Due for replacement: TBC
• Warranty: 3 years / 60,000 miles