The upgraded version of the Mazda3, is now on sale from £13,495 (on-the-road), which includes a £2,300 saving (1.6 TS model). Made exclusively in Japan, the five-door hatchback has a new face, new rear bumper and new twist-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, there are new materials and colours, new equipment and a quieter cabin.

Fuel economy across the range is enhanced thanks to the new model’s refined aerodynamics which cut Cd to 0.29.

“We anticipate that the upgraded Mazda3 will enable us to increase sales of our C-segment contender during 2012,” comments Peter Allibon, sales director, Mazda UK. “Mazda3 was already a great car and the changes to the upgraded model are subtle but every one makes a difference to either fuel economy or driving feel.

“The outgoing Mazda3 was the second-best selling Mazda model in the UK and took us into different segments of the retail and fleet markets. The 1.6 diesel has been hugely popular and the 2.2 diesel with 185ps is still the highest power C-segment diesel model of any brand available in the UK market place,” adds Allibon.

“The introduction of the more sporty exterior, more premium interior and two new Sport models with the 1.6 diesel powertrain for 2012, plus worthwhile fuel consumption and CO2emissions reductions, means we are confident that the upgraded Mazda3 will attract a growing number of consumers to our brand,” concludes Allibon.