• Smaller boot than rivals
• Reasonable oddments storage
• Can tow up to 1,500kg

The Mazda3’s boot space is fairly modest for a car in this class at 340 litres – that’s around the same as the Volkswagen Golf but far less than the Honda Civic. The rear seats split and fold down 60/40, which increases the load area to 1,360 litres. Up front, the glove compartment is surprisingly deep and there is also storage space in the central front arm rest.

Although a safe limit for the standard 85% kerb-weight ratio means the Mazda3 is best limited to towing less than 1,300kg, the strong 2.2-litre diesel means the manufacturer recommended 1,500kg won’t stress the car’s engine too much.

Mazda3 safety

• Competitive safety equipment for the age
• Five-star rating in 2009
• Some active driver assistants

Mazda3 safety has come on a long way. With six airbags as standard, electronic stability control across the range, and the availability of a rear-view blindspot warning system, the Mazda3 is a very safe car. it also activates the hazard warning lights during an emergency stop, cancelling them again when the brake is released. Although its maximum five star rating for crash safety has since been rendered obsolete by changes in Euro NCAP standards, it’s still a good used car for families with a high score for child safety.