Mazda3 Review
Published: 17th August 2004
Mazda3 Review
The Mazda3 made its UK debut in January 2004 replacing the uninspiring Mazda 323. It shares the same platform as the Ford Focus C-MAX and Volvo's new S40 and V50 but do not be mistaken in thinking that the Mazda3 is just a re-hashed Ford Group offering, it is a distinctively different car. Available in both hatchback and saloon guises - uniquely the saloon was designed as a separate model, not the normal compromised re-design of the hatchback variant.
Many of the Mazda3's characteristics have been inherited from the Mazda6 and RX-8 and they all share the unmistakable Mazda family styling. The Mazda3 range encompasses both petrol and diesel variants and starts at £10,650 for the 1.4 5d S - we tested the £15,500 range topping 2.0 5dr Sport.
Mazda claim that the Mazda3 is 'Engineered to work hard - Driven for sheer pleasure'. We test whether Mazda's Zoom, Zoom, Zoom philosophy is enough to make the Mazda3 a credible contender within the C-Segment which includes class leaders such as the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf.
Mazda3 Review Road Test Data | |
| Model Reviewed | Mazda Mazda3 2.0 Sport |
| Body Type | 5-Door Hatchback |
| Colour | Velocity Red |
| Performance ~ manufacturers figures | |
| 0 - 62 mph | 9.0 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 125 mph |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Economy ~ manufacturers figures | |
| Urban | 24.6 mpg |
| Extra Urban | 44.8 mpg |
| Combined | 34.5 mpg |
| Insurance Group | 8E |
| Euro NCAP Rating | TBA |
| Warranty | 3 years or 60,000 miles (whichever occurs first) from date of registration, with unlimited mileage in the first year All new Mazda vehicles come with a 6 or 12 year anti perforation warranty* and a 3-year, unlimited mileage, paint and surface corrosion warranty *Check with your local dealer for the specific model you are interested in The Mazda 3 year manufacturer's warranty includes Mazda European Assistance |
| Price when tested on the 17/08/04 | £ 15,500 |
