Auto Trader Ten Point Test: Mazda 3

We drove the Sport version and were pleased to discover it does go Zoom-Zoom – and it’s even got the soundtrack to match with a corking Bose sound system braced and ready to blare.

Looks | Looks Inside | Practicality | Ride and Handling | Performance
Running Costs | Reliability | Safety | Equipment | X-Factor

1. Looks

The Mazda 3 has found a place outside 30,000 British homes since its 2004 launch so has a certain rarity value. It’s a good-looking car with its own identity but is still recognisably a part of the Mazda family with its grille, V-shaped bonnet and distinctive front and rear light clusters. The Sport model we drove also features 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, body-coloured sports grill, aero bumpers, rear spoiler and side skirts plus xenon headlights. NOT being a Focus, Golf or 307 means it’ll be easier to find in the car park.
Verdict: 8/10

2. Looks inside

The Sport Model features a dashboard which wouldn’t disgrace a Fast and Furious sequel. Glowing reds and muted blues illuminating each bezel (tube-like extension of the driver-directed dials). If you’re in touch with your inner racing driver this is likely to be the moment when you simply purr the word: “cool” with a grin clambering over your face. As soon as your eyes have readjusted from the light show you see a neat interior focused around the central console-located BOSE stereo. Impressive and easy-to-live with at the same time.
Verdict 8/10

3. Practicality

There’s plenty of space for four adults and a bit of a squeeze in the back for a fifth if you need to. We drove the four-door saloon version of the Sport model which boasts a 413-litre capacity boot. The interior features cup holders for each occupant and there’s a storage bin between the front seats. Your 5ft 8ins reviewer found the central console a bit snug to the left leg position so worth checking that out if you’re a similar height (and have short legs!).
Verdict 7/10

4. Ride and Handling

Sharp handling is a must when you’re talking about a Sport model amid the manufacturer’s heavily publicised Zoom-Zoom campaign. The Mazda 3 Sport handles sweetly. OK so it’s not up there with the more overtly sporty models in the range such as the iconic MX-5 and RX-8 and it looks the part a little more than it acts the part but it does handle well and is fun to drive. We drove it in 11mph commuter hell and on the motorway and the ride was fine on both.
Verdict 8/10

5. Performance

There are 18 different models in the Mazda 3 range: including a choice of hatchback or saloon, four engines and four trim levels. The Sport model boasts a responsive 2.0-litre petrol engine which can send the Mazda 3 scuttling through its five gears to 125mph and hitting 62mph after just nine seconds. But there is enough choice to please the city-dweller, rural-based buyer and everyone in between.
Verdict 8/10

6. Running Costs

The average fuel consumption is 34.5mpg – but that’s the Sport model for you. Go for the 1.6-litre diesel and you’re looking at a lighter-on-the-wallet 56.5mpg. Tax will set you back £190 a year and the insurance group for the Sport model is 8E.
Verdict 7/10

7. Reliability

This model has only been around two years so it’s early days for the Mazda 3. It replaced the 323 which may not have been everyone’s favourite car but it was a pretty reliable one.
Verdict 7/10

8. Safety

Plenty of goodies failed to secure the Mazda 3 anything better than a three star EuroNCAP rating. The model features Anti-Lock Braking, Emergency Brake Assist and Traction Control System. Driver, passenger and side airbags come with every model.
Verdict 7/10

9. Equipment

There are four trim grades: S, TS, TS2 and Sport. The Sport version we drove comes with xenon headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, a body styling kit, front fog lamps, and intelligent, automatic wipers and lights. The cloth sports trim is good quality but you can get leather as an option. If you have even a passing interest in music you will love the seven speaker-supported BOSE premium audio system.
Verdict 9/10

10. X-Factor

It’s a toss up between the dash and the BOSE sound system but we’ll go for the sound system. It looks great and it sounds better, really raising the bar for the other cars competing for your pound.
Verdict 9/10

Rivals:
You might want to consider:
Skoda Octavia
Volkswagen Jetta
Chevrolet Lacetti

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