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Mazda 3: Test Drive

Date: 19 September 2007   |   Author: John Mahoney

Category: Lower medium
Prices: £11,430-£19,495
Key rival: Ford Focus

It's curious that it has taken Mazda so long to add a more powerful diesel to its 3 range.

Until now only the 110PS 1.6 has been business-friendly, and while it might offer great fuel figures and refinement, it lacks the performance downsizers crave.

Mazda hopes this will change with the introduction of a 143PS 2.0-litre diesel in Sport trim that arrived with the recent 3 model range tweaks.

Alas, the power output doesn't immediately set the heart racing in a segment where at least 170PS is becoming the norm for cars in the Mazda's price range, but in the flesh the Sport does go some way toward grabbing your attention with its larger 17-inch alloys and subtle bodykit. Behind the wheel, though, you're left in doubt that the 3 is out to snare enthusiastic drivers. A bit of ride comfort is traded for stiffer springs and minimal body roll, but that makes handling a joy. The engine, too, is fairly impressive but it will have to be worked very hard to keep up with the competition.

Our car also suffered from a.

CONTINUED...



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