Since it arrived on scene in 2004, the Mazda3 has been quite a game changer, quickly establishing itself as one of the most popular mid-sized cars on the market. Thus, it doesn't come as a surprise that the third and latest generation Mazda3 has big expectations.
After two generations of sharing a platform with Ford, the current Mazda3 was engineered completely in-house, which allowed Mazda engineers to work free of external constraints.
Just like before, the car is offered in two body styles - a sedan and a hatchback, which we have with us today.
Up close and Personal
The new Mazda3 is a standout, in terms of styling and design, and its long hood and 'cab-back' design really cast it in a different light.
Undoubtedly influenced by the sleek and swoopy Mazda6 sedan, the Mazda3 has its much more understated-looking rivals beaten in the styling department.
Measuring 4,460mm x 1,795mm x 1,465mm (L x W x H), the Mazda3 hatch is 120mm shorter in length but 5mm taller in height as compared to the sedan variant. This allows the hatchback to look tauter and somewhat faster even when the car's motionless.
Inside the car, Mazda has addressed the outgoing model's shortcomings with a modern interior that has more features including a new optional head-up display (Deluxe trim).
Retaining the same wheelbase as its sedan brethren, the hatchback does not compromise on room for passengers. What has been conceded though is 100 litres of cargo capacity as compared to the sedan, but the boot here is deeper and is still generous enough for more than a couple of grocery bags.
The Drive
Unlike many of its rivals, the new Mazda3 doesn't use a small-capacity turbo engine to chase efficiency.
Instead, Mazda has opted for a more holistic approach. So while the new 1.5-litre SkyActiv engine replaces a 1.6-litre lump in its predecessor, there's no turbocharger to boost power - although it's cleaner and more powerful than the old engine.
By sticking with a naturally aspirated setup, power delivery is smooth and linear. The engine isn't exactly powerful, but it revs sweetly when you're driving enthusiastically and it allows smooth, quiet cruising as you get up to speed.
Partnering the engine is the six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts quickly between gears, almost with the decisiveness of a dual-clutch, but with more smoothness when you need it.
Handling has been traditionally a strength of Mazda's and the new Mazda3 is no exception to the rule. Compared to the sedan, the hatch feels a little more agile perhaps due to its smaller size. It feels comfortably tight and ready to respond to all driving inputs.
Unlike many of its rivals, the new Mazda3 doesn't use a small-capacity turbo engine to chase efficiency.
Instead, Mazda has opted for a more holistic approach. So while the new 1.5-litre SkyActiv engine replaces a 1.6-litre lump in its predecessor, there's no turbocharger to boost power - although it's cleaner and more powerful than the old engine.
By sticking with a naturally aspirated setup, power delivery is smooth and linear. The engine isn't exactly powerful, but it revs sweetly when you're driving enthusiastically and it allows smooth, quiet cruising as you get up to speed.
Partnering the engine is the six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts quickly between gears, almost with the decisiveness of a dual-clutch, but with more smoothness when you need it.
Handling has been traditionally a strength of Mazda's and the new Mazda3 is no exception to the rule. Compared to the sedan, the hatch feels a little more agile perhaps due to its smaller size. It feels comfortably tight and ready to respond to all driving inputs.
The only small complain we have of the car is its level of refinement. While the new Mazda3 is nowhere near as noisy as it used to be, it's still not class-leading in this regard.
That said, where the Mazda3 really feels good is in the steering and suspension tuning. A well-weighted steering with direct and sharp turn-in offers decent communication for the driver. Although the Mazda3's suspension and chassis are tuned toward sportiness, it rides well on its 16-inch wheels over road imperfections, keeping bumps and ruts at bay.
Conclusion
At a price of $121,988 (as of 5th September 2014), the Mazda3 is lining up closer to some impressive European rivals. But what's nice about the Mazda3 is that it offers this great balance of style and driving fun in one package. In Deluxe trim, the car also brings in a valuable set of driver assistance features and cabin technology.
Without a doubt, there's little reason the third generation Mazda3 won't continue its popularity in the mid-sized market. After all, it's a class act.
