2017 Mazda 3 vs Toyota Corolla

What's the difference?

For over a decade, the Mazda3 has been part of a three-way battle for supremacy in the Australian small car market. The 2004 original threw the felines among the flying rats when launched, transforming the then-dowdy 323 into a stylish, well-equipped, and well-priced contender for Toyota's segment-dominating Corolla, and later, Hyundai's value-packed i30.

In 2017, the battle is still raging. Late 2016 saw a mild update to Mazda's flagship hatch and sedan range to add a few bits and bobs to the its already finely-judged specification. The Corolla stayed pretty much the same, and just this month Hyundai dropped what is now an annual tradition, an absolute cracker of a new car. This time, the all-new i30.

As you can see, Mazda has never had it easy, and it's a testament to the 3's quality, style and ever-growing reputation that it continues to hold its own in the top three.

This is really interesting. You're pin-pointing your new vehicle search down to not only the top-selling car in Australia – the Corolla – but the most popular type – the Ascent Sport hatch.

Being an Aussie favourite doesn't necessarily make it better than its competitors, or right for you.

But have you, through your own powers of clever deduction and investigation, already discovered the true value-for-money sweet spot in the Corolla range?