Three and easy for Mazda

Ryan Hirons checks out the latest version of Mazda’s Ford Focus-rivalling hatchback

C-segment cars continue to be a popular choice for UK buyers, but it’s a tough class to crack for manufacturers. With the latest Ford Focus still flying off the shelves like those before it, the VW Golf proving to soldier on, and the patriotic among us buying Vauxhall Astras in their droves, it’s going to take a real gem for the rest of the industry to break into it. That’s something Mazda has previously struggled to achieve with its 3. Now though, a fourth-generation car is here - and the Japanese firm is hoping it will change that.

WHAT’S NEW?

What we have is a totally new car. It’s the first to sit on Mazda’s latest Skyactiv-Vehicle underpinnings, which is said to improve comfort, handling and overall refinement. Key to the its success is the all-new Skyactiv-X technology, which Mazda claims can deliver the efficiency and torque of a diesel on cleaner petrol engines. It’s not quite ready for market yet though, so we’ll have to wait until later in the year for a verdict on that. WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? The Mazda3 has always had an impressive behind-the-wheel experience, ranking among the class best as a driving machine. That’s no different here, with well-judged steering combining with a composed chassis to provide some serious fun - it’s almost crying out for a more potent engine. The latest Focus still pips it to the top spot, but the gap isn’t huge between the two. HOW DOES IT LOOK?

In a nutshell: Jaw-dropping. Mazda has the good-looking car formula nailed with its ‘Kodo’ design. Its concept-car-like front makes any other car in this price bracket on the road look ancient in comparison, and the sloping roofline creates a silhouette that rivals even the best coupes on the market. Better still is the saloon – but that’s not set to launch until later on in 2019. WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE? Mazda likes to be generous with its equipment offerings, and the 3 is no exception. As standard across the range, the hatch boasts a head-up display, adaptive cruise control with traffic sign recognition,

LED headlights and a newly designed infotainment system displayed on an 8.8-inch display. The infotainment system in particular is a highlight. THE VERDICT

Buyers may have unfairly overlooked the Mazda3 in the past, but this latest version may be the one to turn their heads at last. Boasting serious value for money, respectable efficiency, stunning looks and an impressive driving experience, it has everything to keep up with the best in the class. The 3 could easily become the go-to choice ahead of its competition.