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The start point for the best source of fleet information
Mazda has upgraded the 1.6-litre diesel engine in its lower medium 3 model, with an extra 6hp yet a fuel economy improvement of 1.4mpg.
The change won't make any different to the car's benefit-in-kind tax, as the 2g/km it shaves off the emissions only takes it from 119g/km to 117g/km, while rivals such as the Ford Focus and Seat Leon are below 100g/km with the same performance offered.
Despite not being at the front of the queue for emissions and economy, the whole-life costs package for the 3 is competitive. A P11D price lower than the equivalent Seat or Ford helps keep the car in the same ballpark, although better residuals for its two competitors mean they both pip the Mazda.
But despite that, the Mazda 3 is a competitive, Smart, well-driving choice that is deservedly growing in both awareness and sales.
Mazda 3 1.6d TS2
P11D price
£18,440
Model price range
£14,755-£23,185
Fuel consumption
64.2mpg
CO2 (tax)
117g/km/(13%)
BIK 20/40% per month
£39/£79
Service interval
12,500mls
Insurance
group 16
Warranty
3yrs/60,000mls
Boot space
340 litres
Engine size/power
1560cc/115hp
Top speed/0-62mph
116mph/11.0secs
On sale
May 2011
Score
7/10
Verdict
Shame there weren’t larger efficiency gains but 3 continues to appeal
Verdict
Shame there weren’t larger efficiency gains but 3 continues to appeal