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Mazda 3 2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186] GT Sport 5dr Auto Review

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The most potent engine in the Mazda 3 range feels usefully stronger thanks to the 8.1sec 0-62mph time, although it still lacks the low-down pulling power of turbocharged rivals. Impressively, it feels much the same as a regular petrol engine despite all the clever emissions-reducing technology under the bonnet.

2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186] GT Sport Tech Ed

Hatchback

Mazda can be summed up in a single word: bold. Not only do its cars generally look like nothing else on the market, but it’s also invested heavily in innovative engine technology.

So, while many car makers have moved to smaller turbocharged engines, Mazda instead offers larger motors that are still efficient. For example, the entry-level petrol option in the Mazda 3 is a 2.0-litre unit –&nbsp;far larger than what you’ll find in most rivals – but it remains very clean.

Highlights of Mazda’s line-up include the MX-5 sports car, which has won our Convertible of the Year Award multiple times, and the CX-5 large SUV, which was named as our inaugural best car for dog owners.

MAZDA

It's still worth considering the upper trims, such as this GT Sport, because they're not overly priced. Upgrades include a powered driver's seat with lumbar adjustment, leather seat upholstery, a heated steering wheel and a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system.

GT Sport

2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186] GT Sport 5dr Auto

20-e-skyactiv-x-mhev-186-gt-sport-5dr-auto

Electric front/rear windows with one touch/auto up/down

Blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert

Privacy glass with dark tinting on rear side windows and rear window

Thatcham accredited alarm and immobiliser

Speed adjustable rear wash wiper with intermittent wipe

Door mirrors with adjustable memory and tilt-down function when reversing

Front and rear parking sensor with audible and visual warning

Lane keep assist system (LAS) with Lane departure warning system (LDWS)

Dual zone climate control air conditioning

Electronic parking brake with auto disengage function and auto hold function

Body coloured, electrically adjustable, heated auto power folding door mirrors with integrated indicators

Driver seat power slide, recline, height and lumbar adjustment with driver door mirror memory

Rain sensing front wipers with adjustable sensitivity and speed

Dual stage driver and single stage passenger airbags

Mazda 3

Although 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.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of practical space </li> <li>Low running costs </li> <li>A comfortable ride </li> <li>A healthy equipment list </li> <li>Quality materials and thoughtful touches inside </li> <li>Rock-solid reliability</li></ul>

Family cars arguably have the toughest brief of all: they have to be good at pretty much everything. They’re used as the daily drive, on the school run or work commute (often both), and have to be able to cope with a family’s clutter on weekends and holidays.

The Skoda Scala is a relative newcomer, but it's&nbsp;already carved out a name for itself in this segment.&nbsp;If you're looking for a moderately priced car that combines a supple ride, neat handling, a spacious interior and a capacious boot&nbsp;it's well worth a look.&nbsp;Alternatively, if you're looking for entertaining handling then the&nbsp;BMW 1 Series may well be for you. It's great to drive, rides well&nbsp;and also comes with a top-notch interior, featuring one of our very favourite infotainment systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Toyota Corolla&nbsp;is another great choice. This latest version of one of the world's best-selling cars of all time can be had with a choice of two different petrol-electric hybrid engines, both of which should mean&nbsp;potentially lower fuel bills. It's comfortable, well equipped and should be very reliable, too.&nbsp;

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Mazda 3 2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186] GT Sport 5dr Auto Review

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