Mazda 3 2.0D (2007) CAR review

This Mazda looks vaguely familiar – the 3 is hardly new is it?

True, but the new turbo diesel engine under its bonnet is. Mazda has finally got around to boosting its 3 line-up with the big 2.0-litre turbo diesel already used in the 5 and 6. It joins the existing 90bhp and 109bhp versions of the 1.6-litre turbo diesel, and comes in in TS2 and Sport trim. It’s on sale now with prices starting at £16,735 for the TS2 and £17,910 for the Sport. The Euro IV compliant unit develops 143bhp and a mighty 266lb ft of torque, good for a 9.9second dash to 60mph and a 126mph top speed. Expect combined economy to hover around the 47mpg mark, there’s a particulate filter for cleaner emissions and a low 9E insurance grouping for affordable premiums.

Hmmm… it doesn’t look very Zoom Zoom, does it?

Yes, the 3 has never really had the looks or attitude to live up to Mazda’s faintly annoying tagline, but this new diesel is a bit of sleeper. Drive it around the block and it will barely make an impression. Spend a day behind the wheel, though, and it impresses with its refinement, performance and comfort.