Search
Close this search box.
Sign up for our weekly Newsletter

Mazda 3 i-Stop: economically sporting

Share

1 July 2009

Mazda 3 2.0 Sport DISI i-Stop

Mazda 3 2.0 Sport DISI i-Stop 5dr

Mazda 3 2.0 Sport DISI i-Stop 5dr

What is it?

Performance oriented version of Mazda 3 hatchback and saloon range. However, the Mazda 3’s 151PS engine is given a green eco-conscience with fuel saving i-Stop (Smart Idling Stop System) technology. This automatically switches off the engine when stationary; and then automatically restarts once the driver depresses the clutch. Available as a saloon or five-door hatchback tested here.

What’s hot?

  • Quiet and refined around town
  • …i-Stop tech imperceptibly stops and cuts back in
  • Out on the open road, 2.0-litre engine has a big heart…
  • …with strong performance, good brakes, snappy gearchange
  • Ride is firm but pliant; progress is quick but refined
  • 159g/km CO2 emissions under 160g/km Corporation Tax break
  • One-touch fold flat reat seats extend luggage area easily
  • Good-value spec includes 17-inch alloys, metallic paint, anti-skid DSC…
  • …Plus keyless start, sat-nav, Bluetooth and Bose audio

What’s not?

  • i-Stop auto restart can be abrupt for driver comfort features…
  • …such as maintaining cabin air con temperature
  • Swooping roofline makes rear space claustrophobic
  • Mix of finishes around cabin inconsistent…
  • …Blend of high class and poor quality plastics
  • Multitude of dashboard and steering wheel buttons confusing

What you need to Know?

P11D Value: 17,820
Monthly Rental*: 332 (CH)/£381 (PCH)
Tax Band when posted: 19%
Monthly BiK: 56 (20%)/£113 (40%)
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl petrol
CO2 Emissions: 159g/km
Power/torque: 151PS/191Nm
Economy: 41.5mpg

Monthly contract hire (CH) and personal contract hire (PCH) rentals generated by Concept Vehicle Leasing. Based on a 36 month lease at 10,000 miles a year, 3+35 payments.

Business Car Manager Road Test Rating

Here’s a car that can provide lots of performance fun, yet delivers over 40mpg. The Mazda 3 is docile around town, and an engaging and satisfying drive on the open road. A well-balanced, all round total performer.

Share this article

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
Reddit
Email

Want more motoring news?

Sign up here for our free weekly serving of motoring.

Sign up here for our free weekly serving of motoring.

Ralph Morton

Ralph Morton

Ralph Morton is an award-winning journalist and the founder of Business Car Manager (now renamed Business Motoring). Ralph writes extensively about the car and van leasing industry as well as wider fleet and company car issues. A former editor of What Car?, Ralph is a vastly experienced writer and editor and has been writing about the automotive sector for over 35 years.

Latest news

Top