ON THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS DRIVES THE 2024 MAZDA3

The Mazda3 has been a popular model in the Japanese carmaker’s line-up and is on sale around the world. Twenty years ago it appeared on the motoring scene, replacing the 323 and I can recall driving one of the earlier models, it was quite stylish and like so many of its competitors and this is one of the most competitive sectors of the market it has evolved down the generations.

Fast forward the clock and now in 2024, the Mazda3 now features small updates while at the same time ensuring that its award-winning exterior design and efficient petrol engines remain unchanged. Yes this is a car that takes fuel on board and not an electrical charge and certainly for me, it has been something of a relief to be driving such. Also my test car had a manual gearbox which was slick to use and may I add – fun to drive. Nothing ever stands still in the motor business and the 2024 updates include a new larger central screen that has grown from 8 to 10.25 inches to allow for clearer navigation mapping; I did observe this immediately and full marks to Mazda for this change, it really does make life that little bit easier. There are other connectivity upgrades include Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus QI Wireless Charging, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto navigation is now supported in the head-up display. What an absolute bonus to have the head-up display; a definite safety feature which I wish more manufacturers would fit to their vehicles, even if you would have to pay extra and another useful feature USB Type-C charging ports.

The version which came my way for test had the 122ps e-Skyactiv-X petrol engine, there is also a more powerful 186ps version; featuring the company’s unique SPCCI Spark Controlled Compression Ignition technology. Featuring a 15.0:1 compression ratio, optimised combustion control, uniquely shaped pistons and the innovative SPCCI combustion technology, this engine delivers a broader operating band of combustion efficiency, which ensures e-Skyactiv X not only delivers higher maximum engine torque but also improved real-world fuel economy. The intake valve timing was adapted through modifying the intake camshaft, this lead to a reduction in pumping losses and further increases the engine’s specific heat ratio, resulting in improvements to the e-Skyactiv X’s fuel consumption. The mild-hybrid system’s software ensures torque reactions issued through the belt-driven ISG that are quick enough to flatten the torque curve; thus the engine feels even smoother during linear acceleration. I have driven the 186ps version on a number of occasions, however I was somewhat pleased with the performance delivered by the smaller unit. Rest to 100kph (62mph) comes up in under twelve seconds while the more powerful engine cuts that figure by some three seconds.

I should add both hatchback and saloon share the same wheelbase, the stylish saloon is 200mm longer than the hatchback. With these two bodystyles on offer there is more customer choice and in an age where there seems to be fewer saloons available, Mazda is providing that choice. My test example was in Exclusive trim, overall a well sorted package; it certainly came with most items I would desire with the modern car. For me the icing so to speak comes with ride and handling and in both areas I found the Mazda3 most acceptable. The ride I found firm without sacrificing comfort and for me the handling bordered on sporty; a combination which will gain praise from many drivers.

What I have found with Mazda vehicles as the years have passed, is  their attention to build quality and the Mazda3 certainly gains plus points in this area.

Ian Lynas