SECTOR: Lower medium   PRICE: €19,540–€27,320 (approx)   FUEL: 4.1–5.8l/100km   CO2: 107–135g/km

The Mazda3 made its debut at the Frankfurt Show last September and first went on sale in October. Not surprisingly, it shares the KODO design language with the Mazda6 and also the SKYACTIV technology, designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions using conventional drivetrains. Even so, the petrol hybrid model, using hybrid technology to further reduce emissions and fuel consumption will be sold in Japan, while Mazda showed a compressed natural gas (CNG) Mazda3 concept at the recent Tokyo Show. Meanwhile, 2.2-litre diesel models are now available in Europe, as driven here.

Otherwise there’s a choice of 100hp 1.5-litre petrol in some markets, offering 5.1l/100km combined and 119g/km CO2 emissions. A 120hp 2.0-litre Skyactiv petrol engine is available with six-speed manual, or automatic transmission. This also delivers 5.1l/100km and 119g/km CO2 in manual form or 5.6l/100km with 129g/km CO2 with automatic transmission. A 165hp version of the or automatic transmission offers the best consumption with 4.1l/100km and 107g/km CO2 combined, or 4.8l/100km and 127g/km CO2 combined.

The Mazda3 comes with MZD Connect, the company’s cloud-based connectivity system. Users must download the free Aha app for their smartphone to access content including Internet radio, news, podcasts, Facebook and Twitter feeds. It’s standard equipment in some markets, but check your local specification.

Having set a high standard of diesel refinement, ride and handling with the Mazda6, it would have been a disappointment if the Mazda3 had not shown similar attention to detail. Even so, diesel refinement does not necessarily transfer to a smaller model, but Mazda knows how to get it right. There is little to choose between the 6 and 3 in this respect. It is impressively quiet and refined.

Interior space is good for this Golf/Focus rival, with reasonable legroom in the rear seats, even with tall front seat occupants. Drivers should find a good multi-adjustable seating position. Our right-hand drive example was equipped with a comfortable left foot rest and a speed limiter/cruise control.

The 120hp 2.0-litre petrol performed well, but sounded harsh when extended. The optional six-speed automatic gave an indicated 7.0l/100km on our mixed route in Scotland. It delivers smooth changes and came with steering wheel mounted paddles for manual changes.

The car felt like a scaled-down 6, which is no bad thing. That means above average ride and handling and a pleasing alternative to European rivals.

The only possible snag is the lack of a smaller diesel engine, available with most rivals. Even so, SKYACTIV is clearly helping to cut fuel consumption and emissions. But does it amount to more than many rivals offer with lightweight high-strength steels, lowered friction, improved aerodynamics and more efficient engines?

What We Think

Mazda adds another impressive car to the range. Good looks and build quality plus impressive engines and low consumption are just what a fleet manager needs.