Mazda 3

The new Mazda3 looks great, like a squashed Mazda6 or big Mazda2, with a little bit of RX-8 mixed in for fun.

It's not an all-new car, technically, but there's a new interior to go with the updated looks, and the chassis (based on the Focus platform) has been tuned to make it drive even better than the last car. It has more bracing and stronger welds to stop it flexing through corners, which sounds a bit lo-tech but actually makes a huge difference.

Through corners, it feels poised and precise, and although it doesn't quite match the Focus for handling, it still manages to feel like good fun. The new 2.2-litre high-power diesel (110kW, 360Nm) helps it feel quick, while offering up a quiet and refined ride on the motorway.

It's a success, then. The range starts at $21,330 for the base 2.0 Neo, and tops out at $29,255 for the big-engined SP25. The MZR-CD diesel is priced on par with most mid-range diesel hatchbacks, but crucially is slightly costlier than a VW Golf diesel. Expect the petrol versions to be clogging shopping centre carparks near you soon.

Dan Read