Mazda 3 2.0 e-Skyactiv G MHEV Sport Lux 5dr Auto Review
Category: Family car
Section: Version review
The model
Read full reviewAlthough Mazda trades on a sporty reputation, the 3 doesn't get anywhere near the Ford Focus in terms of handling. The 3 isn’t the most spacious offering, either, but it's not without serious strengths. It's very well equipped, the infotainment system is great, the interior quality is top-notch and it's reasonably priced. Plus, the fuel-efficient e-Skyactiv X engine offers low CO2 emissions that’ll help with company car tax.
The trim
See full equipmentSport Lux adds a selection of further luxuries and styling enhancements. These include bigger 18in alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights, rear privacy glass, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for the automatic gearbox.
The engine
See full engine specsWithout a turbocharger the Mazda 3's entry-level 2.0 Skyactiv-G petrol engine produces 120bhp. That's about the same as the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines you get in rivals like the Ford Focus and Skoda Octavia. What does that mean in performance terms? Well, the Octavia 1.0 TSI 115 feels a little more flexible in the mid range, but the 3's engine still has enough shove so you're not constantly shifting gears to keep up with the traffic. And in our tests it proved faster from a flat-out standing start than a Kia Ceed 1.0-litre or Skoda Scala — 0-60mph took a creditable 9.4sec.
