What’s not?

• Mazda claim the look and feel of the CX-3’s interior is more premium than before, but although rattle-free, we weren’t impressed with the shiny, hard plastics around the baby crossover’s cabin.
• The CX-3’s stiffer suspension may give a sportier, more dynamic drive. However, there is a slight trade-off in the ride, which is a little harsh and unsettled at low-speed.
• Mazda realises the CX-3’s talent compared against other established small crossovers on the market and expects you to pay for it. Prices start at £17,595 for the CX-3 2.0-litre SKYACTIV G petrol SE 2WD. Our 1.5-litre SKYACTIV D diesel SE-L cost a chunky £20,395, rising to a heady £24,695 for the range-topping 1.5-litre SKYACTIV D AWD Sport Nav auto.

Verdict on the Mazda CX-3 1.5 SE-L Nav

With the CX-3, Mazda is aiming to take on the established, best small SUV crossover competition, with its keen mix of good looks, fine driving dynamics and plenty of standard kit.

There’s no doubt the Mazda is a strong contender for business buyers in SE-L Nav trim reviewed here, with the almost class-leading 70.6mpg economy and equally low 105 g/km emissions and 22% BIK rate.