The Mazda3 is one of the slowest depreciating mainstream family cars, and engines are remarkably frugal given their power outputs. Servicing is reasonably priced as are parts. All the engines, except the 1.6-litre diesel, are chain driven and will not require cambelt changes.

The 1.6-litre diesel Mazda3 is capable of more than 60mpg and with CO2 emissions of 119g/km, ranks among the best in this class. The petrol 1.6-litre at 149g/km is a good reduction over the previous Mazda3, and better than most 1.6-litre alternatives. The addition of two new diesels (with lower carbon dioxide emissions than petrol engines) to the range also strengthens the Mazda3’s green credentials.

Mazda’s tend to be very reliable, and this version of the Mazda3 uses many of the components that were proven in the first generation model.