Mazda tons of fun on its anniversary

OF all years to celebrate a 100th birthday, Mazda couldn’t do much worse than 2020.

But the Japanese manufacturer has worked hard to make sure its anniversary won’t go unnoticed by launching a range of special-edition models that pay homage to its first car – the R360 Coupe.

You’ll find special editions available across the full Mazda range, from the “2” supermini through to the MX-5 roadster.

Here, we’re trying the

“3” hatchback, which was introduced last year – bringing a sleek design and a clever new engine into the mix. In 100th Anniversary Edition form, just 100 will come to the UK.

With the Anniversary Edition, you’re limited to the top-spec 2.0-litre petrol engine known as Skyactiv-X. It’s the first powertrain that features both spark and ignition compression, which aims to bring a blend of petrol and diesel engines.

It’s efficient for a higher capacity petrol engine, returning a claimed 48.7mpg, with CO2 emissions of 131g/km.

Mazda prides itself on the way its cars drive and the 3 hatchback is one of the best cars in its class in this respect. It also has a great driving position as you sit low-slung in your seat and it helps to give it a sportier feel but without the compromise of a firm ride that you get with plenty of its rivals.

With a sleek and swoopy shape, fancy headlights and sharp front end, it attracts admiring glances on the roads.

All special versions come painted in a Snowflake White pearl finish, while the 18-inch alloy wheels are finished in gloss black, and gain red centre caps. There are also subtle badges on the front wings reading “100 Years 1920-2020”.

Bringing all the brilliant traits of the standard car – the style, the interior, the great driving experience – along with special touches, it’s a fantastic hatchback, whether you’re a die-hard Mazda fan or not.