Next month will see the introduction of the brand new third-generation Mazda3. For the first time the car will be offered in either hatchback, or Fastback (saloon) guises.

The new 3 is the latest Mazda to use the firm’s advanced SKYACTIV design process, which aims to add strength while reducing weight, thereby giving good driving dynamics combined with high crash safety: the 3 has already been awarded a 5-Star Euro NCAP safety rating.

All Mazda3s will come with Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) which helps to reduce or prevent low-speed collisions by automatically applying the brakes if the driver fails to act, i-stop idle-stop system, and Hill Hold Assist (HHA) to prevent roll back on inclines.

The range is made up of five specification levels - SE, SE Nav, SE-L, SE-L Nav and the flagship Sport Nav.

All cars get 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, trip computer, radio/CD, 7-inch colour touch screen, USB/iPod connectivity and Bluetooth® hands-free system.

The Mazda3 also ushers in a completely new in-house MZD Connect infotainment system which uses the ‘Aha’ app to integrate with smartphones, thereby giving access to a host of online social media, including Stitcher internet radio.

Tested here is the SE-L Nav, which adds rain-sensing front wipers, Bi-Xenon headlights with automatic levelling, rear privacy glass, cruise control, rear parking sensors, heated front seats and satellite navigation.

The 3 is engaging to drive, regardless of spec and engine derivative, with communicative well-weighted steering and poised, grippy handling. Praise too for the brakes, which are strong and responsive, without the oversensitivity sometimes affecting Japanese cars.

Aside from some low speed fidgetiness on bumpier roads, the ride is generally smooth and suspension noise well suppressed, although road and tyre roar is often audible even at lower speeds.

The petrol engine line-up comprises three naturally-aspirated petrol engines: a new 1.5 litre 100PS and existing 2.0 litre unit, in either 120PS or 165PS form. There’s only one diesel in the range – this 2.2 150PS unit – which thanks to 380Nm of torque, provides the best mix of useable performance (0-62 mph in 8.1 seconds) and economy (68.9 mpg).

Although there’s an auto option, the standard 6-speed manual box is good, having a positive, if slightly long-throw gear change.

The Mazda3’s interior design is a similar style to the larger Mazda6: functionally simplistic and unpretentious, with well placed, well-made and easy to use switchgear.

A geometrically and ergonomically good driving position offers plenty of adjustment and front occupants will find the seats comfy and supportive, along with decent amounts of head and legroom and a well-sized centre cubby, doubling as a driver’s arm-rest; although the door storage bins are disappointingly petite. Boot space is about average for the class: 364 litres seats up and 1263 litres seats down.

Verdict:
Thanks to sharp dynamic looks, engaging driving manners, strong performance and cutting edge technology, the new Mazda3 has all the right ingredients to worry established family hatch rivals from Ford, Peugeot, Vauxhall and Volkswagen.

Tech spec:
Mazda3 2.2 150PS SE-L Nav Diesel
Price: £21,345
0-62mph 8.1 seconds
Top speed: 130 mph
Power: 150PS @ 4500 rpm
Torque: 380Nm @ 1800 rpm
Claimed economy: 68.9 mpg
CO2 107g/km
Insurance group: 24E