Mazda 3 2014 Review

We turn the spotlight on the Mazda3 Neo manual ask the crucial questions, including the biggest -- would you buy one?

What is it?

The opening gambit in Mazda's all new 3 range. Push-button start and auto stop-start are standard, but the features list is a little lean otherwise.

Our test vehicle was fitted with the $1500 safety pack that adds an auto-dimming rear view mirror, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).

How much? 

Hatch and sedan are the same price. Prices start from $20,490 for the manual, or $22,490 for the auto. That gets you airconditioning, cloth trim, power windows and mirrors, cruise control, space saver spare, 16 inch steel wheels with hubcaps,  plus 4-speaker audio and Bluetooth with audio streaming.

What are competitors?

The Corolla and Hyundai's i30. It's a difficult choice but the Mazda as the newer car with the latest technology automatically qualifies as the front runner. 

What's under the bonnet?

A direct injection 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine. It delivers 114kW of power and 200Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Auto stop-start which saves fuel by shutting down the engine at idle is standard, but it misses out on some of the more advanced fuel saving technologies fitted to overseas models.

How does it go?

For 90 per cent of driving the 2.0-litre engine is all you need. Performance is good, with enough in the tank for overtaking  but you'll need to change down on big hills. Goes round corners like it's on rails, with impressive mid-corner grip  but we expected better fuel economy.

Is it economical?

Rated at 5.8 we were getting 7.1 litres/100km from the hatch after 435km. The 2.0-litre i30 we were driving at the same time got 7.2 (and that's without stop-start).

Is it green?

Gets 4.5 out of five stars from the Government's Green Vehicle Guide (Prius gets five).

Is it safe?

Gets a full five stars for safety, with six airbags and a full suite of driver aids. BUT you don't get a reverse camera nor rear parking sensors in the Neo model.

Is it comfortable?

Yes. The seats are firm, form-hugging and comfortable.

What's it like to drive?

A pleasure to drive. Dynamically this car is right up there. You can drive it hard with confidence but the manual requires some concentration to get off the line cleanly. The long bonnet can make navigating carparks tricky. Can't say we're big fans of the slippery vinyl steering wheel and the cabin fitout is rather uninspiring  same goes for the smaller version of the computer screen in this model.

The tyres were a little noisy over some surfaces.

Is it value for money?

Viewed as no frills, rock solid technology the answer is a resounding yes. If you want the little extras you're going to have to look at the more expensive Maxx with alloys and leather-clad touch surfaces.