A NEW look Mazda3 in on the way and the old one was one of my favourite cars so I'm expecting great things.
Prices start at £13,500 on the road and it's available now in both hatch and saloon forms to suit the majority of buyers' needs.
Mazda claims that economy has been improved by 16 per cent and CO2 emissions reduced by 19 per cent, which should please company car drivers.
The car's look has been completely refreshed on the outside, with a new wider grille and reduced drag to help economy.
Petrol engines include a 1.6 with 105bhp and a 2.0-litre with 151bhp and a 2.3-litre 260bhp turbo will be launched later in the year.
Diesels are a 1.6 with 109bhp and a new 2.2 with either 150 or 185bhp with best economy of no less than 62.8 miles per gallon and CO2 of 120g/km.
Interior
Inside, the new 3 has improved comfort - which was already pretty good - and a higher quality feel.
Upcoming models will feature stop/start for even better economy and there are a number of special finance deals to help you buy, as well as the new scrappage scheme which should reduce costs by at least £2,000.
FAST FACTS
Mazda 3 1.6
Price: £13,500
Mechanical: 105bhp, 1,598cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving the front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 117mph
0-62mph: 12.2 seconds
Combined mpg: 44
Insurance group: 4
CO2 emissions: 149g/km
BIK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: Peugeot 308, Toyota Auris