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MAZDA 3 HATCHBACK REVIEW

For Super-stylish small hatchback that majors on value and reliability. All 3s are good to drive, with responsive steering and plenty of grip. Kit levels are high across the range.

Against The 1.6 petrol engine gives mediocre pace, while the ride is firm and thereâ€™s a fair bit of road noise. Space in the rear is no more than okay and the cabin is rather dark.

Car Booth says

4 out of 5 stars

A fresh and funky approach in an otherwise conservative market. The 3 backs up its snazzy looks with a sporty drive, so long as you avoid the 1.6 petrol engine. Itâ€™s great value and should prove reliable, too.

Reader review rating

4.5

The Mazda 3 Hatchback full review Read in full

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Lively engines, apart from 1.6 petrol
Ride & Handling
3 out of 5 stars
Firm, but well balanced
Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
Little wind noise; too much road noise
Buying & Owning
4 out of 5 stars
Good value and a sound bet
Quality & Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Tough cabin and good reliability
Safety & Security
5 out of 5 stars
Up there with the class best
Behind The Wheel
4 out of 5 stars
Fine driving position; fussy dash
Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
Rear and boot space are okay
Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
Even entry-level cars are well kitted

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There are 18 Mazda 3 versions available

Mazda 3 Hatchback 1.6D TS2 5dr

This is the pick of the engine range, and higher-mileage drivers will like its good economy. TS2 is one of our favourite trims, too, although the extra it costs over TS (and over the equivalent model with a 1.6 petrol engine) may put some off.

Car Booth says:4 stars out of 5

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Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

There are lots of engine and trim options to choose from, and you canâ€™t really go wrong with any of them â€\x93 except the 1.6-litre petrol engine, which is okay only if you donâ€™t want to get anywhere in a hurry. Despite that, Mazda still expects it to be the best seller. We, on the other hand, recommend the smooth and punchy 1.6 diesel.

Weâ€™re tempted to plump for TS2 trim, too, which gets climate control, alloys, a CD changer, cruise control and Bluetooth. However, we reckon that TS trim is the better value overall. Most buyers will go for the five-door hatchback, but there's also a four-door saloon if you prefer. Both cost the same money.

Discount-wise, you might struggle to get to 10% (although you should always try) â€\x93 anywhere between 5% and 8% will be a decent enough deal.