Since its introduction in 2014, the Mazda3 has been a serious contender in the family hatchback market and has held its own against rivals including the VW Golf and Vauxhall Astra.

Global production passing the five million mark earlier this year, it looks set to increase its popularity further with a mid-life refresh.

It now has a sharper, more stylish and tapered profile, has a more driver-friendly, roomy cabin and enjoys some clever performance enhancements which will improve its place in such a highly competitive class.

There are three specification levels with a choice of fastback or hatchback, priced from £17,595 to £24,195 on the road. They include a 105ps 1.5-litre or 150ps 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D diesel engines, with the petrol line-up which includes 120ps and 165ps versions of the 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G.

Performance from all the engines with impressive torque producing strong acceleration and giving all the models in the range a sporty feel.

The handling is wonderfully controlled, with accurate steering and great suspension. Thanks to the ingenious G-Vectoring Control.

The Mazda3 marks the debut of GVC which has been developed by the clever folk at Hiroshima for eight years. It varies engine torque to optimize load on each wheel to provide more precise handling and improved comfort.

So, if you’re driving perfectly, the system will allow you to continue, but if your driving is a little on the ragged side, the engine will make the alterations without you even noticing. Of course, I didn’t notice anything, so I must have been driving perfectly.

The whole effect is it remains comfortable yet controlled. Even through a series of tight corners there is little body roll and gives a good sense of connection to the road. Anyone who enjoys the experience of driving will have many miles of fun and delight.

Inside, the cabin has high quality switch panels and a practical centre console which includes storage space with two USB slots thanks to an electric hand brake switch in place of a chunky handbrake.

There is a great feeling of spaciousness in the cabin. The dash is simple and uncomplicated and the seats, while firm, remain comfortable even over long distances.

Mazda’s model range consists of three trims, which include SE, SE-L Nav and Sport Nav. Entry level models come with air conditioning, electric windows, 16in alloys, a dual chrome exhaust system, and hill-hold assist. The SE gets a 7.0in touchscreen infotainment system complete with DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity, while upgrading to SE Nav means the addition of sat nav and three years’ worth of map updates.

The 163bhp 2.0-litre engine can only be had with the Sport Nav trim, which includes luxuries such as cruise control, 18in alloys, LED headlights, day running lights and rear lights, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.

The new version costs £200 more than it's predecessor and extra kit includes folding door mirrors, and, depending on trim level, speed limit recognition, Smart City Braking from up to 24mph to protect pedestrians, standard hill -hold assist when the parking brake is released, while Sport Nav versions come with rear cross traffic alert that automatically stops the car while reversing if something is about to cross its path.

All in all, Mazda has again managed to step up a gear to create yet another terrific car for those who want something a little different from the crowd, but without making a compromise.

Mazda 3

Price: from £17,595 to £24,195

Engine: Petrol or diesel

Transmission: Six-speed manual and auto.

For more on the Mazda range go to https://www.mazda.co.uk/