Mazda 3 1.6 D

It’s sometimes easy to forget that there is much more to the family car market than the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf and Vauxhall Astra. So dominant are these three models, other rivals barely get a look in!

But with the facelifted Mazda 3 hitting the UK’s roads this month, all of that could change. It benefits from a bold new look, comprising RX-8-style headlamps, while there’s also a refreshed line-up of low-CO2 engines, ranging from a 1.6 petrol powerplant to a fiery 2.2-litre diesel.

We tried the 1.6 version of the oil-burner, which is predicted to be the top seller. This engine produces 107bhp and 240Nm of torque, while CO2 emissions of 119g/km and 63mpg economy ensure it’s a wallet-friendly choice.

On the winding roads of our test route it was fun to drive, delivering its torque low down in the rev range, and proving surprisingly refined.

In addition, Mazda claims a significant reduction in cabin noise, with wind and road roar virtually non-existent. Practical and well equipped, the new 3 also serves up a decent portion of all-round usability – and then there is the revamped selection of colours. With a fresh palette of bold metallic hues, including red, gold and blue, turning heads should prove no problem!

All of which points to one thing... That choosing a new family model should no longer be a simple process of deciding between the usual Ford, Vauxhall and Volkswagen suspects. For the time being at least, 3 sales volumes are unlikely to match those of its competitors, but this talented all-rounder looks sure to get the recognition it deserves.