2017 Mazda 3: Which spec is best?

The Mazda 3 has been a consistent top-four seller in Australia and justifies its popularity on merit thanks to its stylish looks, easy driveability and two engines options that both perform well and are easy on fuel. It’s offered as a hatchback or sedan with boot capacities of 308 and 408 litres respectively, though the hatch is more functional with its broad tailgate and the added utility of a 60/40 split rear seat.

Variants

There are six primary Mazda 3 trim levels available as hatchbacks or sedans and with a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. The three lower spec models are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, while the sportier SP25 variants have a 2.5-litre petrol four. There are no prices differences between hatch or sedan body styles though the automatic transmission attracts a $2000 premium.

Starting at $20,490, the entry-levelMazda3 Neocomes equipped with an AM/FM radio with AUX, iPod, and USB inputs as well as Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, hill-start assist, rear parking sensors, power folding mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels, G-Vectoring Control for better steering stability and Smart City Brake Support.

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For $2000 more, the Maxx sedan or hatch represents better value with a 7.0-inch infotainment screen with reversing display and in-built satellite navigation. The interior feels more upmarket with leather trimmed steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake lever and the automatic versions get a pair of paddle shifters. The Maxx extra active safety features including reverse auto braking, blind-spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert.

Dig down the back of the couch for the additional shekels for a Mazda 3 Touring and you’ll also get leather trimmed seats, dual-zone climate control, auto windscreen wipers, auto folding mirrors and power parking brake.

For just $400 more, theSP25 has most of the Touring’s features but with cloth seats and adds the sportier 2.5-litre engine, 18-inch wheels wider, low-profile tyres and smart key entry.

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The SP25 GT returns leather trim to the seats which are now heated at the front and power adjustable for the driver. The kit list also includes a head-up display, Bose sound system, LED headlights which shine into corners, driver fatigue alert and Traffic Sign Recognition to help you keep track of speed limits.

The range-topping SP25 Astina adds a sunroof, auto dipping LED headlights and radar-based active safety including active cruise control, automatic emergency braking at speeds up to 160km/h and lane-keep assist.

Our pick

You really get money’s worth with the Mazda3 Maxx in either hatch or sedan form, which brings you the central touchscreen, satellite navigation and reversing camera, and some helpful active safety tech in addition to auto braking.

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The cloth seats are comfortable, good-looking and hardwearing and are complemented by the leather-trimmed touchpoints.

The 2.0-litre engine is more than adequate with either transmission, sipping around 5.8L/100km on the combined fuel consumption cycle.

Available options

Premium paint - $300