Mazda 3 verdict

One of Mazda’s key selling points has long been the heightened level of driver appeal its cars tend to offer. And even with the rather obvious roadster-shaped poster child put firmly to one side, this has been manifest in Hiroshima’s modern hatchbacks and superminis as much as anywhere.

In terms of its ability to conjure up an engaging sort of handling athleticism, the fourth-generation Mazda 3 gives away none of that hard-earned reputation; in the wider class, it’s up there with the very best.

The car's innovative Skyactiv-X engine, as cleverly engineered and potentially frugal as it might be, has never quite lived up to its billing of offering the best of both the petrol and diesel worlds. However, as long as you’re not looking for hot hatch performance, the cheaper Skyactiv-G is a pleasant, drivable alternative with all the accessible performance this car really needs.

Whichever engine you choose, the Mazda 3 has well-considered safety and multimedia systems, and one of the most materially appealing cabins in the segment. In fact, rather than the clever engine, the 3’s interior might be its standout feature, feeling more upmarket than some of the premium options in the segment, but without the premium price.