The Mazda 3 remains a popular hatch and sedan range despite the fact that SUV’s today dominate the car market and now represent 60 per cent of total sales. The Mazda 3 remains our No 2 selling small car behind the Toyota Corolla, managing to increase sales last year by 16 per cent in a tough market. Recently upgraded the Mazda 3 comes in a range of 8 hatchback and sedan variants – I drove the top spec G25 Astina hatchback at $43,190, a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder with six speed automatic. The hatchback body a distinct wedge shape with Mazda’s signature grille – best as a two-seater with the rear seat cramped at best for adults and here the sedan would be the better option. What immediately impresses with this top spec Mazda 3 is the interior – a standout in materials and quality leather in a design that’s well laid out with large instrument binnacle and centre screen and central rotary dial, everything is just so intuitive and easy to use. A great 360-degree camera and a head-up instrument display with everything in your line of sight. As the top line model, the G25 Astina is the Mazda 3 burger with the works – Warranty five-years, unlimited kms. Drive details next. I’m David Berthon

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