Mazda 3 (2009-) Review

On the road

• Previous: Reliability and Quality
• Next: Safety and Security

Sharing the same platform as the Ford Focus, the last 3 had a fine reputation as a driver's car, so the Mazda engineers have taken the wise approach that if it ain't broke why fix it?

That's why Mazda is using the old platform although it's been heavily modified. As a result the 3 retains a drive that equals any of the class best.

Even on poorly surfaced, slippery sun-baked roads in Portugal the Mazda remained nothing less than composed and balanced while the front tyres gripped tenaciously even with severe provocation. The damping did its job well maintaining fine body control.

We spent the majority of our time in both the 148bhp 2.2 diesel and the entry-level 104bhp 1.6 petrol. It's the diesel that impresses most.

Sprinting to 62mph in 9.2 seconds it is seven tenths quicker than the old engine, but this doesn't paint the true picture of what an improvement the new engine brings. The new 2.2 is far more refined than the old, coarse 2.0 and now barely audible at tickover. It's far smoother and more flexible, yet muscular too with its 266lb-ft of torque delivered at a low 1,800rpm, making for relaxed progress with plenty in reserve for overtaking.

Overtaking in the 1.6 is a far trickier prospect and one that on fast roads needing plenty of planning. From standstill to 62mph takes a yawn-inducing 12.5 seconds while its meagre 106lb-ft of torque is delivered at a high 4,000rpm. However, once you get up to speed the 1.6 is spirited and even fun such is the enthusiasm and willingness of the smallest engine.

While the diesel comes with a six-speed manual, the small petrol comes with just five forward gears. The gearshift on the five-speed has improved and so have the ratios - an 80mph cruise is now comfortably below 4,000rpm.