All the engines are reasonably economical, insurance is cheap for the class and servicing at Mazda dealers is usually well priced. Service intervals could be better spaced, however, plus small saloons rarely hold their value. It’s likely to be worth just under half of its original value after three years – not performing as well as the hatchback.

The 3 performs well on the eco front and with an average of 159g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are relatively low for a small family hatchback. The greenest model in the line-up is the 1.6-litre diesel which emits 135g/km of CO2 and averages 56mpg. In 2004 this engine was revised and emissions fell to 128g/km of CO2 while economy rose to 58mpg.

The Mazda has proven good so far and the firm has a strong reputation for well built and reliable cars. Its predecessor, the 323, was supremely reliable.