New Hyundai i30 & Skoda Octavia vs Mazda 3
Infotainment systems
Hyundai i30
The i30's standard 8.0in touchscreen is logical and quick to respond when you prod it. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, letting you mirror your phone’s display on the car’s screen, and you can even charge your phone wirelessly if it supports inductive charging. It’s just a shame the screen isn’t slightly angled towards the driver, and the stereo’s sound quality isn’t great.
Mazda 3
The 3's screen is smaller than those of its rivals, at 7.0in, and the graphics could be sharper. However, although the Mazda’s screen can be controlled by pressing it, there’s also a separate rotary dial controller between the front seats that’s easier to use when you’re driving. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t available, though, and sound quality isn’t as good as you might expect from the standard Bose stereo.
Skoda Octavia
The Octavia's SE L trim gets you an 8.0in Amundsen touchscreen. The pictured 9.2in Columbus version costs an extra £1050. Either way, you’ll have no issues getting to grips with the interface, and the system responds snappily when you press the screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, and there’s even a wi-fi hotspot. The optional Canton stereo (£500) delivers impressive sound quality.
