In the family way
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Years: 2013 to date Engine: 2.2-litre 4cyl, 148bhp Ins grp: 24 Official econ/co2: 60.1mpg/104g/km Why? Mazda 3 saloon is just as good to drive and has an even bigger boot than the hatch version.
£11,000
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THE Mazda 3 hatchback is one of the best cars in its class, and with a bigger boot, lower emissions and a stylish shape, the Fastback model has a lot going for it. It has the same wheelbase and suspension set-up as the sharp hatch and is great to drive.
At idle, the 2.2-litre Skyactiv diesel engine is quiet, plus it’s smoother than the Jetta’s 2.0-litre TDI on the move. It’s greener, too, and low emissions make it cheaper to tax.
Apart from giving up the flexibility of a wideopening hatch tailgate, the Fastback scores well when it comes to practicality. The 419-litre boot is 55 litres up on the five-door, and the rear seats fold flat to give you a long load length plus impressive floor-to-bootlid dimensions.
The Mazda’s handsome proportions mean it has the beating of the Volkswagen for looks, and the upmarket interior feels well built and inviting. The standard 3 impressed in Driver Power 2016, finishing 36th with its best scores in handling and reliability.
★★★★★
THE Mazda 3 Fastback is more efficient and better looking than the Jetta. It’s more exciting to drive, too, and while it’s pricier to buy than the VW, it holds its value better.
★★★★★
IN isolation, the Jetta is a capable and composed compact saloon. However, it’s let down by its dreary looks, higher running costs, lower kit count and uninspiring driving dynamics.
Years: 2011 to date Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl, 138bhp Ins grp: 17 Official econ/co2: 53.3mpg/138g/km Why? It’s not as eye-catching as the Mazda, but the VW is composed, well finished and spacious.
£8,500
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WITH global sales just shy of a million cars in 2013, the Volkswagen Jetta is big business. However, it’s not such hot property in the UK, which means it could be a good used buy.
The straight lines and upright shape are a little uninspiring, though, especially when you park it next to the Mazda 3. The black plastic and dark upholstery inside look plain, too.
It handles safely without any nasty vices, but the steering does feel slow and a fraction heavy at low speeds, while the front tyres surrender grip sooner than the Mazda. The well established 2.0-litre TDI engine is punchy and ensures there’s enough performance on offer both on the motorway and around town.
The Jetta’s trademark long rear overhang creates space for a vast boot that offers a maximum capacity of 510 litres – 91 litres more than the 3’s load area. Even better is the fact that the tailgate unlocks and swings open automatically with the press of the key fob.
Buyingcars Which family saloon offers the better blend of practicality and fun?