The all-new Mazda 3 isn’t on sale yet, but we recently had a chance to test drive a demo model to see what’s what. So, is it any good? Take my hand dear reader as we discover the answer.
Review
Since its initial debut in 2003, the Mazda 3 have enjoyed strong sales in the UK. Families have benefited from Mazda reliability and low purchasing costs, as well as the unique style that allows the car to stand out in the car park. For 2014, Mazda have completed revamped the car, and it shares none of its body panels with the old model – that’s good news, of course, because the 3’s competition is now better than ever.
New 2014 Mazda 3
With prices starting from £16,695, the Mazda 3 is still priced like an affordable family hatchback. It is considerably cheaper than a Volkswagen Golf or BMW 1 Series, yet it sits above the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra, cars which have a starting price several thousands of pounds lower than Mazda’s offering. So, then, the Mazda 3 is a mid-range family hatchback, and that mid-range title is fitting for what we found elsewhere with the new 3.
Firstly, the new design serves up a familiar shape, with the sizing and tone staying true to the first and second generation models. The 3 now rides on the same platform as the 6, and so it’s wider and longer than the outgoing model. The biggest change is in its face, which is now angled, muscular and aggressive, whereas the prior model was happy, smiling and welcoming. It’s safe to say that an MPS version would look menacing.
Inside you will find the biggest change to the Mazda 3. Interior quality has improved dramatically, with Mazda said to have used the BMW 3-Series as a benchmark. Every single material is top quality in the 3, from the soft touch dashboard to the leather wrapped instruments. The new Volkswagen Golf has slightly higher quality switchgear and controls, which are rather mechanical, but the 3 fights back with a stellar driving position and a wonderful 7-inch touch screen mounted on the dashboard.
On the road, the Mazda 3 is fantastic. Available engines include a 1.5-litre petrol engine, 2.0-litre petrol engine (which curiously has the same C02 emissions as the 1.5) and a fantastic 2.2-litre diesel unit that is the fastest in the range. This engine has C02 emissions of just 107g/km yet it’ll go from 0 – 62 mph in only 8.1 seconds with thanks to 280 lb /ft of torque.
Overall
With the new Mazda 3, Mazda have finally produced a car that isn’t a wild card in a consumers purchasing decision. This car every bit as fun as a Ford Focus, and it has 95% of the quality of a VW Golf. The Mazda 3 then is one of the best all-round family hatchbacks your money can buy, and if you’re bored of what German car manufacturers have to offer, this is the premium family hatchback for you.
