These are the first pictures of the Mazda 3 hatchback which will make its world debut at next week’s Bologna Motor Show.

The 2009 Mazda 3 will get the recently launched 2.2-litre diesel engine which is available with either 181bhp or 147bhp and is cleaner than the outgoing 2-litre diesel.

These engines were highly praised by Auto Trader when we tested them in the Mazda 6.

With 181bhp, the Mazda 3 diesel should provide hot hatch-levels of performance while also achieving impressive fuel economy and relatively low emissions.

Mazda 3 hatchback pics

The new Mazda 3 will also be available the existing 1.6-litre and 2-litre petrol powerplants developing 104bhp and 148bhp respectively and a 1.6-litre diesel available in 89bhp and 107bhp guise.

While not confirmed, we’d anticipate the entry-level diesel Mazda 3 – which is lighter and more aerodynamic than its replacement – to sneak below the 120g/km CO2 threshold for low road tax.

With the new Mazda 3 going on sale in the first half of next year, expect to see a hot ‘MPS’ version arrive towards the end of the decade – offering blistering acceleration and an electronically-limited 155mph top speed.

The next year is a busy time in the family hatchback market with new versions of the VW Golf, Renault Megane and Vauxhall Astra.

More details on the new Mazda 3 will be announced next Wednesday at the Bologna Motor Show.

Prices will be announced at the beginning of 2009, but we’d expect the entry-level 1.6 petrol model to cost around £13,600 with very little increase thanks to the 2.5 per cent drop in VAT.