Mazda3 2.2D Sport

Nov 20 2009 Mike Torpey

TIMES may still be tough but it's comforting to know that some things just keep getting better.

Take the Mazda3 as a case in point. The model replaced during the spring is a massively important car to the Japanese producer as it is the next generation of the company's most successful ever model.

And with its cool, low-slung style - inspired by the RX-8 coupe - the '3' is properly armed to take on rivals like the Ford Focus, Renault Megane and newly launched Vauxhall Astra.

Its credentials range from a fresh, modern design to the lean, green credentials of the latest engine range.

For instance fuel economy is improved by up to 16%, CO2 emissions slashed by up to 19% and weight reduced considerably.

A 15-strong line-up in Mazda's familiar S, TS, TS2 and Sport trim grades plus the newly arrived MPS comprise a range which starts at £13,500 for the 1.6-litre petrol S model, though the tested 2.2D Sport costs a hefty £19,900.

Six engines are available - 1.6, 2.0 and 2.3 petrol plus a trio of turbodiesels, all boasting class leading safety systems including the likes of stability and traction control, ABS and six airbags.

Inside, the dash layout has been freshened up, borrowing strongly from the larger Mazda6 with its cowled instruments and soft-touch plastics.

The tested Sport model, which looks stunning in bright Celestial Blue metallic paint, comes with body-hugging front sports seats while rear space is just about adequate for three - though the centre position is hard and uncomfortable.

That's about the only criticism I can fire at the Mazda3 because it has a surprisingly big boot for the size of car with 340 litres of luggage space, lots of cabin stowage, decent headroom and solid build quality.

Best feature of all though is the way it drives. The 3 is extremely agile, wonderful through sweeping bends with its well balanced ride, stiff chassis and positive response from the steering. The six-speed manual transmission is also very slick.

It's a car that exudes confidence and the 2.2D Sport also has plenty of punch, while still returning just under 50 miles per gallon.

If performance isn't the main criteria then the 109PS 1.6 diesel with its claimed 62.8mpg average and £35 per year road tax is an excellent, and cheaper, alternative at £15,760 in mid-range TS spec.

All Mazda3 models come well equipped with the safety systems, air-conditioning and MP3 connectivity on every car while Sport models have an upgraded BOSE sound system.

Those wishing to embrace green technology more thoroughly can include Mazda's i-stop technology - standard on the 2.0 Sport - a stop/start system which, at traffic lights for instance, re-starts the car in just 0.35 seconds.

FAST FACTS

Mazda3 2.2D Sport 5dr

Price: £19,900

Mechanical: 185ps, 2,184cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 134mph

0-62mph: 8.2 seconds

Combined mpg: 50.4

Insurance group: 12

CO2 emissions: 149g/km

BiK rating: 15%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles