There are three petrol engines of 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0 litres. Even the 1.4 is sweet, although it has to be revved. The larger petrols serve up good performance. Alternatively, Mazda offers 89bhp 1.6-, 108bhp 1.6- and 141bhp 2.0-litre diesels. The 1.6s are smooth and frugal, but can't match some rivals for punch. The 2.0D is fast and flexible. The expensive 2.0D is our favourite diesel but we'd stick to petrol power.

The 3’s low-speed ride is firm, but not uncomfortable. As speed increases, the ride smooths out and there is excellent body control. We prefer the hydraulic steering of the 1.6 to the electro-hydraulic system on the 2.0 petrol, which needs more sensitivity.

Of the petrol line-up, we'd recommend the 1.6. It's a smooth, refined motor, while the 2.0 sounds harsh as the revs climb. Engine noise isn't too intrusive, but some wind and road noise reaches the cabin at motorway speeds. The diesels emit some clatter in town, but are quiet on the motorway.

Prices are competitive for the small family car sector, with our favourite model undercutting the equivalent VW Golf by around £1000. You get good fuel economy, too, but resale values can't match those of the class leaders. Low carbon dioxide emissions make the 3 a sound choice for company car drivers.

The cabin isn't as appealing as a Vauxhall Astra's or VW Golf's, with hard dashboard plastics letting things down. Still, everything you touch feels sturdy, and Mazda's reliability record is excellent: it has consistently finished near the top in both the annual JD Power customer satisfaction survey and our own reliability survey.

The 3 comes with twin front and side airbags as standard, and curtain ‘bags are fitted to all but the base S. All models have anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, while TS2 models and above have stability and traction control systems. An alarm and deadlocks are a standard fit.

It's easy to make yourself comfortable, thanks to a steering wheel that adjusts for reach and rake and a driver's seat that can be cranked up and down. You also get chunky controls for the stereo and heater, but these can be tricky to read at a glance and are separated from the slim panel that displays their settings.

The 3 is one of the roomiest cars in its class, seating four six-footers in comfort. Access to the rear is also good thanks to large door openings, but shoulder space is a little tight when you have three in the back. The good-sized boot is well shaped, and the 60/40 split rear seats fold to make an almost flat extended load floor.

S models have electric front windows, electric heated mirrors and central locking, but only a radio cassette player. TS trim adds air-conditioning and a CD player, while TS2 models gain climate control. Sport trim has more toys including a bodykit, black-out instrument panel and two more speakers for the stereo.