Mazda3 Fastback saloon - Interior & comfort
A stylish, well built interior plus comfortable suspension means the Mazda3 Fastback feels luxurious
The Mazda3 Saloon is a lot like the standard Mazda3 hatchback on the inside. It's basically identical, in fact, boasting the same high-end feel and abundance of pleasing finishes. All of the controls feel very robust and satisfying to use.
As with the hatchback version of the car, ride quality is brilliant. Bumpy roads are ironed out and even rough surfaces are made comfortable for driver and passengers alike. This doesn't detract from the handling at all, which is one of the main selling points of this car. The Sport Lux and GT Sport trims aren’t quite as soothing as the Sport, but enthusiastic drivers will appreciate their responsive feel.
Mazda3 Saloon dashboard
The Mazda3 has an understated, stylish dashboard that has been cleverly designed to make the driver's life easier. All controls are within easy reach, from the electric window buttons on the door handles to the slim-screened 8.8-inch infotainment system in the centre of the car. The door handles are mounted further forward than in most cars, but this too is practical – you can reach to open the door without twisting too much.
Equipment
Standard features are generous across the Mazda3 Saloon range, which consists of four models: SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech. All have the same sharp touchscreen infotainment system including sat-nav with three years' free mapping updates, DAB radio, Bluetooth phone integration and USB input. There's also electric windows all round, cruise control, LED lights and rear privacy glass.
Sport Lux brings bigger alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a Driver Attention Alert and folding, heated door mirrors.
GT Sport offers all the above, but adds leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, auto emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. Top-spec GT Sport Tech includes extra safety equipment like cross-traffic alerts and a 360-degree camera for easy manoeuvring.
