2nd MAZDA 3
Updated Mazda scores on refinement, style and quality. But is it as easy to live with as its rival here?
MIXING eye-catching style with agile handling and impressive efficiency, the Mazda 3 Mk3 was an instant class contender when it debuted in 2013. Fast forward three years, and the hatch has been treated to a mid-life update in an effort to keep pace with a whole host of new rivals.
You’re unlikely to spot the changes to the exterior unless you look closely. However, careful inspection will reveal the more prominent front grille, revised door mirrors and a reprofiled rear bumper. Our range-topping Sport Nav model is identified by its adaptive LED headlamps, while all versions are available with a trio of new metallic paints.
There are fewer changes inside, where eagleeyed fans will spot the Mx-5-style three-spoke steering wheel and the adoption of an electric parking brake, which frees up extra storage in the centre console. However, prod and poke the cabin and you’ll discover higher-quality materials and switchgear, which combine to give the car a similarly upmarket feel to the Renault.
Mounted on top of the dash is Mazda’s familiar seven-inch touchscreen, which can also be accessed via a rotary controller on the transmission tunnel. However, it’s not quite as easy to use as the set-up in the Renault. Other standard kit on the Sport Nav includes a full-colour head-up display, keyless entry, heated seats and a reversing camera.
Mazda hasn’t messed with the 3’s smooth underpinnings, which are more sophisticated here, on paper at least. The front suspension uses struts, but at the rear is an independent multi-link axle.
The engine line-up remains unchanged, so our 1.5-litre diesel test car has 104bhp. At the track the lower-powered Mazda narrowly trailed the Renault from 0-60mph, recording a time of 11.5 seconds. The pair were closer in-gear, and out in the real world there was little to separate them. While the 3 is no faster than before, it’s more refined, thanks in part to the brand’s Natural Sound Smoother that is installed in the diesel engine’s pistons.
On a twisting back road the Mazda has the upper hand; its strong grip, quick steering and balanced handling make it more involving than its rival. The 3 also benefits from beautifully weighted controls and a slick gearshift. Yet while the tweaks have softened the car’s ride, it can’t quite match the Renault for comfort.
The Mazda has to give best when it comes to practicality, too. Rear seat room is closely matched, but the Mazda’s smaller door openings make access trickier. Cabin space is also in shorter supply, and the 364-litre boot is 70 litres down on the Mégane’s.