The mild-hybrid petrol engine delivers good efficiency and reasonably pacy performance – 0-62mph officially takes 8.1 seconds. You get a slick manual gearbox as standard, with an automatic available as an option.

2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186]

Saloon

Mazda can be summed up in a single word: bold. Not only do its cars generally look like nothing else on the market, but it’s also invested heavily in innovative engine technology.

So, while many car makers have moved to smaller turbocharged engines, Mazda instead offers larger motors that are still efficient. For example, the entry-level petrol option in the Mazda 3 is a 2.0-litre unit –&nbsp;far larger than what you’ll find in most rivals – but it remains very clean.

Highlights of Mazda’s line-up include the MX-5 sports car, which has won our Convertible of the Year Award multiple times, and the CX-5 large SUV, which was named as our inaugural best car for dog owners.

MAZDA

The 3 Saloon's only trim is well-equipped, giving you luxuries that would cost you extra on premium-brand executive car rivals, including adaptive cruise control, heated front seats and lots of safety kit.

Exclusive-Line

2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186] Exclusive-Line 4dr

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Mazda 3 Saloon 2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186] Exclusive-Line 4dr Review

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NEW REVIEWS:

site ribbon config

20-e-skyactiv-x-mhev-186-exclusive-line-4dr

Electric front/rear windows with one touch/auto up/down

Blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert

Privacy glass with dark tinting on rear side windows and rear window

Electronic parking brake with auto disengage function and auto hold function

Thatcham accredited alarm and immobiliser

Front passengers seat manual slide, recline and height adjustment

Front and rear parking sensor with audible and visual warning

Lane keep assist system (LAS) with Lane departure warning system (LDWS)

Rain sensing front wipers with adjustable sensitivity and speed

Driver seat manual slide, recline, height and seat tilt adjust

Dual stage driver and single stage passenger airbags

Electrically adjustable, heated auto power folding door mirrors

Mazda 3 Saloon

As well as undercutting premium executive cars on price, the Mazda 3 Saloon comes with lots of standard equipment, a classy interior and an efficient engine. However, rivals offer more effortless engines and you’ll be better off looking at slightly bigger options if you regularly carry rear-seat occupants.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes.

NEW REVIEWS:

Mazda 3 Saloon 2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186] Exclusive-Line 4dr Review

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