Mazda - 3

2004 onwards 

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A mid-sized family hatchback and saloon that comes over as more sensible than sporty. Updated replacement to the 323 the 3 has been designed for the European market. Offers a strong all-round package, especially to private buyers.

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	Good handling
	Well built
	Fun to drive
	Un-inspiring looks
	Not particularly roomy
	More sensible than sporty

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Underneath its slightly conservative styling the Mazda 3 is no sporty hot-hatch look and has a very adult appeal. Excellent driving dynamics, good handling and a slightly firm ride. It also comes with an extremely clever impact-absorption structure, gifted by its other half-sister, the new Volvo S40. Inside the strong, durable cabin is well designed and offers a good feeling of quality. The entry level 1.4 litre petrol engine lacks motorway guts but should be fine in town, more powerful 1.6 and 2.0 litre petrol motors becoming decently rapid. The cleverest engine in the range is the common-rail 1.6 litre MZ-CD turbo-diesel, which gives strong performance (109 bhp) despite its modest capacity. Equipment levels are reasonable, although both aircon and curtain airbags are an extra cost option on the base 'S', slightly disappointingly.