Focus based. Bags of room and a comfortable ride, well equipped, saloon is the best looker and sharpest handling, depreciates slower than the 2004 Focus.
Steering of early 2.0 petrol cars lacks feel, lacks the panache of other hatchbacks.
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FUEL ECONOMY
35.8–62.8
OFFICIAL MPG
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REAL MPG
88%
OF OFFICIAL MPG
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INSURANCE
4–12
GROUPS
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ROAD TAX
C–J
VED BANDS
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MOT RESULTS
81.5%
AVG. PASS RATE
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| CARS FOR SALE | USED 3 PRICES |
Introduction
Mazda is good and building attractive cars and this shows in the neat Mazda 3. It takes a little bit of inspiration from other Mazda models, such as the sporty RX-8 and is an attractive car. But this beauty is more than skin deep as the Mazda 3 is also very good to drive.
It's very comfortable with a firm but forgiving ride, plus it's more than capable on the twisty stuff with well weighted steering and a excellent grip. And like all Mazdas - the Mazda 3 is reliable and well built. Add in plenty of passenger space, particularly for those in the rear and the Mazda 3 makes lots of sense.
Although replaced in 2009 this Mazda 3 is still a good buy as a used model and there's plenty of choice too. The engine range includes some peppy petrols (although the entry-level 1.4-litre is a little lacklustre) plus economical diesels - there's even a high performance turbocharged MPS version.
In 2006 the Mazda 3 was given a light makeover with a newer front end and grille plus changes that improved the handling. Equipment levels were also upgraded, making the Mazda3 even better than before.
Mazda 3
Mazda 3
Mazda 3
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