The 3’s efficient cabin is a civilized place.

Operating the “infotainment centre” does not require a degree in ergonomic second-guessing and the “premium” Bose sound system lives up to its name. Also, Mazda‘s emphasis on more muscular diesel engines pays dividends on country routes with less need for gear changing, cutting stress and consumption. However, low-level diesel chatter is infiltrating its way into the passenger compartment via the nearside ventilation duct (pictured), compromising a lack of mechanical noise.

Mazda 3 2.2d 150PS Sport 5-door manual
Mileage 3449
Claimed combined
consumption
52.3mpg
Our average consumption 45.3mpg
P11D price £18,260
Model price range £13,500 -£21,500
CO2 (tax) 144g/km/19%
BIK 20/40% per month £58/£116
Service interval 12,500mls
Insurance group 10E
Warranty 3yrs/60,000mls
Boot space (min/max) 300/1360 litres
Engine size/power 2184cc/150PS
Top speed/0-62mph 127mph/9.2secs
Why we’re running it Can it step up to its
class mark like the 6?
Positive Strong street presence,
refinement and performance
Negative Inadequate spec
compared to petrol