The 3 is Mazda’s Ford Focus-size hatchback, with a dash of style from the RX-8 coupe. It follows in the vein of other recent Mazdas, which means it’s good to drive, very reliable, well equipped and spacious. Unfortunately the once exciting design now looks bland and the 3 hasn’t aged particularly well – inside or out. The cabin has some cheap plastics and the design is drab.

There’s a decent choice of engines though, including some economical diesels while a facelift in 2006 including a new front end and changes under the skin that made it better to drive. Further revisions followed in 2008 which made the trim levels simpler and improved equipment levels while a Takara model was launched that comes with sporty looks, a rear spoiler and unique alloys.

While it’s a worthy hatchback, newer rivals have more panache and refinement.

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