MAZDA 3

On paper, this Japanese hatchback isn’t that special. It’s a slightly cheaper rival to the top-selling Ford Focus and VW Golf, with a range of reliable engines. It’s the epitome of the modern family car; dependable, efficient and, well, a bit boring.

Then you look at it. Mazda has somehow injected this dull market segment with the type of design we rarely see outside show concepts and the occasional supercar. It’s just brilliant to look at and reminds us how cars used to be exciting things to behold. Indeed, it was one of our favourite cars at the Los Angeles show last November, when it made its official debut.

Expect to pay from about £20,000. have been keen to point