2014 Mazda 3 preview

The Mazda 3 looks to be one of the sportier options in the family hatchback class. The looks certainly have a sense of intent but is it as good as its rivals?

Let’s start with the power unit. The potent 2.2 diesel engine certainly outguns the majority of similarly priced rivals. However, we say that it’s the 2.0 litre petrol engine that’s the one that most consumers will opt for. The petrol engine is so much more refined is easy to use and an all round smooth operator. The petrol engine is also much cheaper that any of the Mazda 3’s rivals. Don’t get us wrong, the diesel is definitely a little punchier and equally as fun but it’s both noisier and expensive. Speaking of noise, one thing to note is that all of the Mazda 3 models do suffer from a little bit of road and wind noise particularly at motorway speeds.



Once you step in the car you’ll soon discover that the cabin is definitely the car’s strong point. You get the colour touch screen as standard and all the materials feel solid with a nice variety of textures. The driving position’s good too where you’ll get lumber adjustment even on the base models. In fact the equipment in the 3 is very good on the entry level cars. You get all the comfort and audio extras you’d want meaning it’s not essential to go for the higher spec models – that’s unless you want leather or sat nav. One word of warning however is that the sat nav is quite frustrating as you’re unable to turn the voice guidance off! Apart from that the entertainment is really easy to use. Bluetooth streaming is great and the sound system is excellent. In a nutshell, the cabin is generally a very nice place to be.



It’s just as comfortable in the back where two tall adults will sit absolutely fine. However, if you’re a little on the taller side then you may find your knees are pressed a little against the seat in front. Anybody sat in the middle could find that the center console may get in the way of their leg space. The boot is big but it’s nothing special, there are certainly rival models in the same class with which will give you more space to put your shopping. Also if you’re a fan of the storage cubby then you’re out of luck as you don’t even get under-floor storage in the Mazda 3 let alone any nets, bags hooks or that sort of thing. However, the seats do fold flat and generally it’s more than adequate for everyday use.



Once you take a drive you’ll notice that the handling is pretty slick and competent. There’s not too much body lean through corners and the car feels surprisingly grippy and quite precise. However, this is all let down by its steering which is both vague and numb the result meaning that it just doesn’t give the driver that sense of connection you get it better rivals. The Mazda 3 will give you a comfortable ride, ok it’s a little lumpy over bigger bumps but overall it’s quite composed. However, if it’s comfort you’re after then you might want to avoid the bigger alloys.



So, what do we think? Ultimately, the Mazda 3 is a good car. The passenger space is good, equipment is really generous and it’s really good value as a private buyer. However, the numb steering means that it’s not quite as fun as it should be and company car costs could be cheaper. It has real merit but there are certainly better and more rounded rivals out there.