Driving the Mazda 3 hatchback today, the G25 Astina with 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels through a six-speed automatic. As the top spec model in the 8-model hatch and sedan range not inexpensive at $43,190. For that money its very highly equipped with safety comfort and convenience features, the leather clad interior classy and giving it a very much upmarket feel behind the wheel. The larger 2.5-litre engine giving it extra punch while its suspension and steering err on the sporty side giving it the feel of a hot hatch. Recent additions have enhanced its appeal like the addition of Mazda connected services which link with the MyMazda app which give the driveR remote access to such things as vehicle health and status reports and stolen vehicle tracking assistance. The interior is a knockout on this high-grade model. Beautifully executed with great fit and finishes, nice leather trim and excellent ergonomics that makes driving a pleasure. Economy, I couldn’t match the quoted 6.6L/100 and managed 8.7L/100 but on the plus side it does only require 91 octane regular unleaded. Whilst somewhat expensive the top spec Mazda 3 G25 Astina punches very much above its weight and feels in a class above. I’m David Berthon.

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