UK Drive: Mazda3 becomes more refined thanks to new engine

Mazda is a car manufacturer that likes to think outside the box. It’s produced some of the finest handling cars around, and has built up a reputation for groundbreaking innovation.

Its latest Mazda3 hatchback has been around for six years now, but that hasn’t stopped the Japanese firm from giving it a few nips and tucks over timeSo, what are the latest changes that have been made to this Volkswagen Golf rival? We’ve been driving it to find out.

Externally and internally, everything remains the same. However, the changes lie beneath with a new 2.5-litre petrol engine that boasts mild-hybrid technology – which Mazda claims improves its efficiency and performance.

The exterior design still keeps the traditional Mazda design cues with its wraparound front headlights and sloping roofline.

Meanwhile, it’s very much a case of ‘as you were’ on the inside, with high quality materials used and a rotary twister knob to control the infotainment screen.

We’re driving the latest addition to the Mazda3 engine line-up, which is a 2.5-litre petrol unit with mild-hybrid assistance – replacing the old e-Skyactiv G 2.0-litre petrol engine.

In terms of power, it produces 138bhp and 238Nm of torque, while 0-60mph is dispatched in 9.2 seconds and the car tops out at 128mph. Mazda claims this new engine can do 47.1mpg and has CO2 emissions as low as 135g/km. In comparison, the old 2.0-litre unit produced 120bhp and 213Nm of torque, while it had a claimed 51.4mpg and  CO2 emissions of127g/km.

A choice of six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are available, too.

The Mazda3 provides a sharp and dynamic driving experience. On a twisty road, the excellent chassis means cornering is taken in its stride with little body lean – giving a sportier edge.

It handles well with a decent amount of grip from the tyres and the steering is well weighted, making the car one of the best in its class when it comes to driver engagement.

The slick and precise six-speed manual gearbox is a joy to use, and gives off reminiscents to the firm’s sports car – the MX-5.

The engine is smooth, quiet and refined at speed, but the lack of low-down torque means that you do have to stir the gearbox around in order to make good progress.

Visibility out the back is poor, due to the high rear windows and small rear screen – but thankfully our test car’s reversing camera does help out with low-speed manoeuvring.

The Mazda3 is currently in its fourth-generation, and since its launch in 2019 its exterior design has hardly changed.

At the front, the wraparound headlamps morph into the radiator grille, while the back of the car has a bulbous stance with very thick C-pillars with an integrated gloss black spoiler.

Our test car is finished off in the Polymetal grey paint scheme, giving the car an anonymous look. The overall design of the car could be considered divisive depending on how you look at it.

The interior design of the Mazda3 is identical to its larger brother – the CX-30. It features soft materials on the door cards and has a leatherette effect on the dashboard.

Its 10.25-inch touchscreen system is controlled via a rotary dial – which is very easy to use on the move. Physical climate control buttons also help with its ergonomics, too.

Storage includes a glovebox, two cup holders, a centre armrest with further underfloor space, large front door bins and a secret little cubby hole next to the steering wheel.

In the back, the low roofline makes climbing aboard a bit of a squeeze. Headroom is tight and the large transmission tunnel makes seating a third rear passenger a struggle. The small rear windows make the whole cabin feel dark and claustrophobic.

Boot space stands at 358 litres or 1,026 litres with the rear seats folded – making it smaller than its rivals from Volkswagen and Honda.

Mazdas always come generously equipped and there is no exception here, with buyers given a wide range of choices. The range consists of Prime-Line, Centre-Line, Homura, Exclusive-Line and Takumi.

Prices start at £24,460 for the entry-level Prime-Line with standard equipment including air conditioning, a seven-inch coloured driver’s display, rear parking sensors and LED headlights.

We’re driving the Exclusive-Line which starts at £27,260 and boasts a Bose premium audio system, heated front seats, 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and front and rear parking sensors.

The flagship Takumi adds a heated steering wheel and leather upholstery – which is priced from £29,660.

Mazdas often offer a left-field choice among their competition, and this is a great example of that theory.

It’s one of the best-in-class when it comes to its driving experience, while maintaining a high quality cabin with lots of standard equipment. However, its cramped rear seats and smaller boot capacity means that it’s not the most practical small family hatchback around – and its looks won’t be to everyone’s taste.

It may be a bit long in the tooth, but this new engine gives the car a smoother, quieter and more refined drive, and is a sensible and dependable choice among buyers.