Month: October 2018

Isuzu has introduced the latest in its line of D-Max pickups, this time bringing an aggressive new edge to the truck.

Named the Fury, it’s a limited-run special edition with added styling and comfort tweaks, plus a striking red and black colour scheme.

Anticipating strong demand for the few Fury models available, Isuzu UK has opened order books early for the new pickup, which will arrive in dealerships in January 2019.

Starting with the exterior, all D-Max Furys will be finished in a Magma Red paint scheme, fitted with dark grey 18-inch alloy wheels and a red Isuzu badge in the darkened radiator grille.

There are gunmetal grey side steps, black door mirrors, door handles and tailgate handle and an eye-catching ‘FURY’ decal just aft of the front wheel arch.

That style continues on the inside, with dark grey seats featuring red stitching. The stitching continues on the armrests and steering wheel, while there are Fury-specific carpet mats.

Those lusting after an even more striking interior can specify a full leather package which brings black and red upholstery with stitched ‘FURY’ logos in the headrests.

All standard D-Max features remain, including air-con, a seven-inch infotainment system with reversing camera, and a 1.9-litre diesel engine producing 163bhp and 360Nm of torque.

The new D-Max Fury is available to order now, with first deliveries in January 2019. Prices start from £22,499 excluding VAT for commercial vehicle customers.

A great number of the population opt for a four-wheel drive car, and they often have very different reasons for doing so. For some, it may be a necessity — with those who live in particularly rural areas relying on the added traction of a four-wheel drive vehicle (not to mention the extra ruggedness and ride height that often comes along with this drivetrain) to get them where they need to go.

For others, four-wheel-drive is about dynamics – a different way to put power to the ground, and one that can produce some brilliant performance cars. While rear-wheel drive cars may provide more drama, four-wheel drive can often produce a faster-accelerating machine.

If your needs tick either of those boxes, we’ve rounded up some of the best bargain 4x4s on the used market – all of which can be had for under £4,000 in good condition.

Land Rover Discovery

Ok, fair enough — Land Rovers are known to be money pits and buying one for £4k could just mean it’s still got £4k left to spend in maintenance bills. But choose carefully (and harness the very real power of wishful thinking) and you could end up with a great example of one of the most legendary off-roaders in the world.

The Discovery took everything the Range Rover or Defender could do and wrapped it in a superbly user-friendly, comfortable and spacious seven-seat bodyshell. There are few vehicles that can do what this car can do, which is just as much home at the country club as it is schlepping through the school run. Just set aside some money for maintenance — you’ll need it.

Suzuki Jimny

The latest Suzuki Jimny has taken the car world by storm, but the original model was so good that it remained in production for almost two decades. That’s an impressive show of solidity from the tiny Jimny.

This pocket-sized mud-plugger will keep up with the big boys any day, courtesy of its proper separate chassis, low-range gearbox and selectable four-wheel drive. Sure, it’s a bit gutless on the road and will struggle to fit in any more than two adults and a carrier bag — but it knows its purpose, and executes it brilliantly. Ratty examples cost barely anything, but £4,000 will net you a tidy car that’s not had too much misuse.

Subaru Impreza Turbo

Cheap four-wheel-drive machines don’t all have to be used-and-abused SUVs that have seen a lifetime of towing or farm work — and the Subaru Impreza Turbo is an example of this.

While the fire-breathing WRX STI and lesser WRX may have taken the limelight in the Impreza’s heyday, the humble Turbo offered a similar driving experience to its rally-born brethren, but for a lower cost. Good examples can be hard to find now, but a handful of early, unmolested cars come in under our budget.

Mitsubishi Shogun

Believe it or not, the Mitsubishi Shogun is still in production in close to the same form it initially took in 2006 — a testament to its proven track record of being a rugged, dependable real go-anywhere machine.

But why pay £40k+ for a shiny new one, when for a tenth of the price you can get all of that — just in a less polished package. Late second-generations can be had within our price and, although they may have seen some action over the years, will still offer just as much function as a new Shogun will.

Toyota Land Cruiser

When it comes to off-roaders, there’s only one name that’s as iconic as Land Rover — and that’s Land Cruiser. Toyota’s offering in this segment is a true legend, famed for unshakeable reliability and unstoppable off-road capability.

Our budget will net you a fairly tidy example, and in the UK there’s every chance it’s been used in little more than the school run. And even if it hasn’t, these cars will run forever if maintained correctly.

Fiat Panda 4×4

Adorable? Check. Tiny footprint? Double check. Surprisingly capable on the rough stuff? That’s a hat-trick for the Fiat Panda 4×4 — which is one of Italy’s most beloved institutions and a brilliant little all-rounder.

Whether you opt for the barely-distinguishable standard 4×4 or the rugged and beefy Cross, the Panda 4×4 offers a remarkable amount of traction and will embarrass many a larger 4×4 in mud or snow. Good examples can be had for well under our budget.

Jeep Cherokee

The Jeep name is synonymous with genuine go-anywhere ability, with the firm boasting a proven track record of producing seriously capable machinery since its WWII roots.

Ok, so the Cherokee may not be quite as tough the Wrangler — but it still invokes a lot of the American brand’s DNA, and at a seriously budget price. Our budget can net a high-spec V6 model, giving you a real taste of Americana. We can’t promise it’ll be cheap to run, though.

Volvo XC90

4x4s had been steadily making their way into the mainstream for some time, but it’s arguably Volvo that pioneered their use as a family car and rung the death knell for the humble MPV way back in 2002. The XC90 may have looked like an SUV, and acted like one – but its main purpose was to make mum and dad feel like the kings of the road.

Said parental units would be delighted with the Volvo’s family-friendly features, adore its class-leading safety and be reassured by its hefty stance and four-wheel drive. Fast forward just 15 years, and now we can’t move for family crossovers and SUVs. Thanks, Volvo. Luckily, the XC90s popularity and solidity means there’s still loads of examples around.

Honda CR-V

The CR-V may not get the pulse racing, but those who value space, comfort, practicality and reliability will appreciate it. It’s certainly got the chops for family living — think of it like a Civic with four-wheel drive and you won’t be far wrong.

There’s tons of choice at this end of the market, and you’ll be able to opt for either a very tidy second-generation model or a slightly baggier third-gen. Be glad you’re able to buy one at all — many CR-V owners choose to hang on to them, preferring their practical Hondas to more modern crossovers.

A car battery may be a small piece of the puzzle under the bonnet, but it’s up there with the most crucial components.

Without a properly functioning battery, the car will struggle, or even fail, to start. While they can stay in good health for a long time, they will eventually deteriorate — meaning it’s vital to keep an eye on the unit and knowing when to replace it.

How does a car battery work?

A car battery functions in a pretty similar way to any conventional cell — it’s wired up to provide power to electronic components.

In this case, the electronic component is the starter motor, which gets the car’s engine running. The engine then turns the alternator, which takes the load off the battery by powering most of the vehicle’s internal components — while also recharging the battery itself.

Why do they go flat?

Just like any battery, the one found in your car has a limited energy capacity — which will eventually run out.

If the battery is left to provide power to the car for too long without any energy return from the engine’s alternator, it will eventually go flat. Its ability to hold charge also diminishes over time — meaning it could be time for a new one if it goes flat often.

How can I check my car’s battery?

Unlike say your fuel levels and fluid temperatures, which are easy to see on a car’s instrument cluster, not many machines show a reading of the battery’s condition — so you’ll have to invest in a bit of extra equipment.

A multimeter will be able to tell you the DC voltage of the battery. As a general rule, a car battery should read no lower than 12.6V to be considered in good health — anything lower and it might be time to switch it out.

Which battery should I put in my car?

Batteries vary between cars, so don’t expect a one-rule-for-all here.

The easiest solution would be to head to an online retailer, with many offering tools to find the right battery for your car by simply entering the registration of your car.

Alternatively, you could look for an identical battery to the existing unit by its serial number.

Can I change a car battery myself?

Although we’d always recommend seeking specialist help before undertaking any mechanical task yourself, changing a battery is a fairly simple task.

Park the car on a level surface and secure it with the handbrake first, before opening the bonnet. Once the battery has been located, disconnect the negative terminal first before then unclipping the positive. The battery should then be fairly easy to lift out, ready for a new unit to be placed in.

How should I dispose of an old battery?

By law, car batteries must not be disposed alongside regular household waste.

Fortunately, many recycling centres have dedicated facilities for car batteries. Take the old unit to your nearest centre, where it can be safely and legally disposed.

More details on the long-awaited new Toyota Supra appear to have been leaked by a BMW parts catalogue, ahead of the car’s full reveal.

RealOEM, a tool for searching for parts produced by the German manufacturer, has now added a detailed section on its website for the upcoming Japanese sports car — providing an insight into its mechanical specifications and equipment offering.

The new Supra has been jointly developed with BMW, with the latter basing the new Z4 on the same architecture as the Toyota.

Three models are shown in the catalogue — 20i, 30i and 40i. This reflects those of the new Z4, although it’s unlikely the final Supra will be offered with more than one powertrain choice at launch.

If the catalogue proves correct, it would appear UK-spec Supras will be offered with technology such as a head-up display and adaptive cruise control. Other equipment looks set to include Alcantara upholstery, with multiple interior colour options on offer.

It also appears to support long-held rumours Supra will only be available with an automatic transmission at launch.

The catalogue also gives an outline at what looks to be Supra in final production form — having so far only been shown in racing concept and heavily-camouflaged concept guise

Expect to hear more details on the new Toyota Supra early next year, with a full reveal expected at the Detroit Motor Show in January.

The Paris Motor Show 2018 was plagued with issues before the doors even opened. Several key manufacturers – Volkswagen, Nissan, Infininti and more – announced prior to the event that they wouldn’t be attending, which left many thinking that it would be somewhat of a ghost show.

However, despite the drop-outs, this year’s Paris show threw up several key new cars and reveals – along with a number of celebrity appearances. Here, we look at some of the key aspects of the 2018 Paris Motor Show.

BMW 3 Series

We’d been teased several close-up images of the car prior to its full reveal at this year’s show, but this is the first time that we’d seen the car in full. The new 3 Series is wider, longer and slightly taller than the car it replaces, and this means it’s able to offer better interior and luggage space.

Initially offered with 320d diesel and 330i petrol powertrains, the 3 Series is due to arrive early next year. Prices are set to start at £33,610.

Porsche confirms 911 Speedster will enter production

The 911 Speedster Concept had been showcased to the public back in July, but it was at the Paris show that it was finally confirmed for production. Featuring the same chassis as that on the current 911 GT3, as well as a powerful flat-six engine, the Speedster will be limited to just 1,948 units – a reference to the year that the original Porsche 356 ‘Number 1’ gained its operating licence.

It’s also the first Porsche vehicle available with a new Heritage Designs Package, which gives customers better personalisation and customisation options.

Mercedes B-Class

Small MPV vehicles may not be a hot topic at the moment given the momentous rise of the crossover, but Mercedes-Benz has decided to stick with the segment with its new B-Class. Based on the A-Class platform, it’s been designed to take on the 2 Series Active Tourer.

https://twitter.com/MercedesBenz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1047018345445249025&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fexplore.pressassociation.com%2F%23!%2Fready%2Fstory%2F7d3d1758-cf48-4d29-908a-019c43cb6a21

Alongside plenty of interior space and a decent range of economical engines, the B-Class also features Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX infotainment operating system, as well as a host of safety assistance systems.

David Beckham pledges allegiance to new Vietnamese car maker

It was one of the surprises of the show. Little-known Vietnamese manufacturer Vinfast revealed its new saloon and SUV models with the help of a famous footballer – one David Beckham, no less.

Though ‘Golden Balls’ had few words to say when on stage – “It’s incredible. It’s beautiful. It’s sleek. It’s modern. It’s high tech. It’s premium. It’s incredible. Congratulations.” – the former England captain was more than happy to receive a Vietnamese flag from co-host Tran Tieu Vy, winner of Miss Vietnam 2018.

Robert De Niro reveals new all-electric vehicle

Beckham wasn’t the only celebrity to put his name against a new vehicle at Paris this year. Actor Robert De Niro was announced as an ambassador for the new – and similarly named – Kia e-Niro. Capable of offering a 301-mile all-electric range (the crossover, not the ‘Taxi Driver’ star), the e-Niro will slot in alongside the Niro hybrid and plug-in hybrid models in the range.

The Kia family has a new member. Introducing our new star: the Niro.

Click to find out more➡️https://t.co/yj4yCua2x9 pic.twitter.com/qQPP8noaoR

— Kia UK PR (@KiaUKPR) October 2, 2018

The new e-Niro has already entered production and is due to go on sale towards the end of the year.

Peugeot 508 SW First Edition

Peugeot chose its home turf to reveal its new 508 First Edition, kicking off sales of its new estate car across Europe with this introductory specification. As is the way with range-topping trims, the First Edition packs a wealth of standard equipment and comes with the choice of two engines – one petrol and one diesel.

Peugeot has yet to announce prices for the 508 SW First Edition, but expect it to come in above the £37,014 asking price for the equivalent hatchback model.

 

Hyundai N Option Accessories range

Hyundai’s N offering – currently just the i30N hatchback – has enjoyed a decent amount of success in the UK, but Hyundai today announced a series of upgrades for those who the standard car isn’t quite out-there enough.

Called N Option, the selection of upgrades includes quad exhaust pipes and new 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in performance tyres. It allows drivers to add to the look and performance of their i30N car. Hyundai has, as yet, not announced when this new accessories range will be introduced.

Renault EZ-Ultimo

Ever wanted a luxurious, autonomous limousine? Then here’s the car for you – Renault’s EZ-Ultimo. Dubbed by the French manufacturer as a ‘premium travel experience, the EZ-Ultimo is capable of travelling 310 miles on all-electric power and packs Level 4 autonomy – meaning it can travel without any input from the driver.

It’s the third autonomous concept car to be released by Renault, and gives an insight into the brand’s plans for the future.

The prominent infotainment screen on Tesla’s Model 3 became an issue for one owner recently, after police mistook the vast display for a laptop computer strapped to the dashboard and pulled them over.

Tesla owner Jon Hall recorded the incident via his rear-facing dashcam, which captured the moment a police motorbike pulled him over to tell him “you’re not allowed to have your computer mounted on there.”

The display in the Model 3 is one of the largest in the business, at 15-inches and mounted in landscape orientation in the centre of the dash. It’s second only in fact to its siblings – the Tesla Model X and Model S, which both use 17-inch, portrait-mounted displays.

That hefty display is necessary though, as it not only shows sat-nav and media but controls all of the car’s functions and even functions as a gauge cluster.

Luckily for Hall, he was able to explain the screen’s functions to the traffic officer, explaining: “This is stock with the car. This literally is my only centre console. I can’t remove this – it’s how I control my air-conditioning.”

The officer appeared interested in the car, asking whether it was capable of ‘other computer functions’ and apologising for the unnecessary traffic stop.

Passed your driving test recently? First of all, congratulations. Second, you’ll probably be wondering which route you should take for your first car.

There are some brilliant deals around on brand-new cars, especially if you opt for the finance route – but for most, the first car is a used model, purchased outright with savings and perhaps with a bit of help from mum and dad.

The ideal first car has a few factors. First of all, it should be easy to drive for a newly-minted motorist – nobody wants to step out of their test and into something that’s difficult to manoeuvre. It should also be cheap to maintain, repair and — most crucially — to insure. Premiums on young drivers are the highest in the business, and key to keeping prices down is buying a car in a low insurance group.

But that doesn’t mean your first car has to be a dull, three-cylinder city car that only sets pulses racing if it’s about to crash. In fact, many brilliant cars can be had that fill all of these criteria. We’ve rounded up some of the best here, each of which should cost less than £5,000 to buy in good condition.

Ford Fiesta

Ok, so the Ford Fiesta is an obvious choice as a first car — but there’s good reason for that.

Britain’s best-selling motor offers anything any new driver could need — good styling, fun driving dynamics and strong levels of equipment at a reasonable price. Insurance costs are low for smaller-capacity engines, and thanks to wide availability, parts are easier to source than a Wikipedia footnote on a dissertation.

Mini One

If retro styling alongside rock-solid build quality appeals to you, then look no further than the Mini. Yes, it may pack a more powerful engine — the age of car we’re looking at in this budget has a 1.6-litre unit — and this may make insurance premiums slightly more costly, but accept this and you’ll also get a great-handling hatchback with decent residuals.

Mitsubishi Colt

The Mitsubishi Colt may not be a car to win you clout, but if you’re after a good-value machine that’s pretty much guaranteed to never break down — it could be the car for you.

High-spec CZ3 models with low miles can be had for well under our budget, leaving plenty of room spare for a stereo upgrade, or some dashboard accessories. Plus, as they’re going to run forever, you can expect to sell the car when the time comes for an upgrade without too much of a hit in value.

Mazda MX-5

Most two-seat sports cars will be out of reach for a first-time motorist, but the dinky Mazda MX-5 has plenty going for it. First of all, there are the engine choices – nothing bigger than 1.8-litres, and with a decidedly modest amount of horsepower.

Our budget of £5,000 will easily net you a good car without too much of the dreaded rust, and MX-5s are so widely appreciated that there will always be a supply of spare parts. Best of all, some of the earliest models are now old enough to qualify for cheap-as-chips classic car insurance.

Volkswagen Lupo

The Volkswagen Lupo was one of the first of a new generation of compact ‘city’ cars, and it executes this in typically efficient, well-built Germanic style. It’s a dinky little thing, the Lupo, but this means it’s dead easy to park, while light steering and a range of peppy engine make it ideal for urban driving. There’s a diesel available too – but don’t expect rocket-like performance – it’s a non-turbocharged powerplant and will therefore take a glacial 16 seconds to hit 60mph.

Chevrolet Aveo

The Chevrolet Aveo is a car you may not have heard of, if you have, probably forgotten about. The generation we recommend didn’t generate a lot of buzz and, with Chevrolet pulling out of the UK in 2015, we don’t hear about them that much over this side of the pond any more.

But from these series of unfortunate events has come some good, because you can now get a used Aveo for cheaper than the equivalent Ford Fiesta or even Vauxhall Corsa. Top-of-the range models come in comfortably under £5,000 — bagging youn a touchscreen infotainment system and bluetooth connectivity, which is almost unheard of at this price.

Volvo C30

Volvo’s image in past years has very much been that of the dowdy antiques dealer, the geography teacher – perhaps an accountant if you’re feeling really exotic. The C30 was a lone standout, bringing gorgeous styling inspired by the P1800 – yet still sat on a practical platform with a range of efficient engines.

In fact, under the skin the C30 is basically a Ford Focus, so maintenance and running costs should be simple. Insurance may be a little high for a 17-year old, but if you’ve passed your test later in life, it presents a stylish, yet affordable option.

Ford Ka

Ford’s little city car is a great choice for anyone on a budget. The Ka features a small range of small yet nippy engines that will get you around town effortlessly.

Being Ford’s entry level car means later generations of the Ka can be found well within this budget — while original cars are so cheap, you could easily buy, insure and probably run it for a few years with this kind of money.

Fiat 500

This retro Fiat is designed for those who want some style with their car; and comes well-equipped with classic Italian flare. It stays true to its roots from the original 500, offering the fashionista image in a machine capable of effortlessly zipping around town.

Thanks to its popularity, there’s plenty of examples to be had an insurance is pretty low as a result of its easy repair costs and wide availability of parts.

BMW lifted the lid on its brand-new 3 Series at today’s Paris Motor Show.

The seventh generation of the manufacturer’s popular saloon has been completely revised, and is due to go on sale from next March.

With prices starting at £33,610, the revamped 3 Series aims to eclipse the success of its predecessor by offering more space and improved handling.

The new car is now 85 millimetres longer than the car it replaces, as well as 16 millimetres wider, and features a wheelbase extended by 41 millimetres as a result of being based on similar underpinnings as the larger 5 Series.

The wait is over. Introducing the new #BMW 3 Series. Find out more: https://t.co/rEboYLsrr4 pic.twitter.com/29aYyA0F2Y

— BMW UK (@BMW_UK) October 2, 2018

The large kidney grilles remain at the front of the car but are now framed by ‘notched’ headlights.

Inside, the 3 Series remains as driver-focused as ever. A large central screen dominates the cabin, aided by traditional button controls for functions such as heating and ventilation.

A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster replaces the traditional dials behind the wheel, supplemented by a 10.3-inch central screen using BMW’s latest infotainment operating system.

The popular 320d model remains, powered by an upgraded 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel, and is available with both rear- and all-wheel drive. The rear-driven 320d can hit 60mph in 6.9 seconds, with the xDrive version shaving that to 6.7 seconds.

A powerful four-cylinder petrol will be used in the 330i and is capable of hitting 60mph in 5.6 seconds while delivering a claimed combined fuel consumption of 48.7mpg.

Overall body rigidity is now up by 25 per cent, while the suspension spring rate has also been increased to help deliver a more sporting drive.

The popular M Sport specification remains too, offering a more dynamic look as well as sports suspension, which drops the car’s ride height by 10mm over the regular model.

David Beckham has introduced Vietnam’s first car manufacturer at the Paris Motor Show — just days after side-stepping a speeding fine.

Making a surprise appearance at the French show, the former England captain appeared alongside Miss Vietnam 2018, Tran Tieu Vy, to help take the wraps off the Vinfast LUX A2.0 saloon and LUX SA2.0 SUV.

In an incredibly awkward exchange at the show, the former Manchester United midfielder uttered fewer than 50 words during his time on stage.

Seemingly unaware of what he was supposed to say, Beckham said: “So beautiful.

It’s incredible, I mean, to create something in such a short space of time is really, it’s really incredible, you know, it really is. Vinfast is a miracle for Vietnam.

“It’s incredible. It’s beautiful. It’s sleek. It’s modern. It’s high tech. It’s premium. It’s incredible. Congratulations.”

He was then handed a Vietnamese flag and posed with the new cars for photographs.

Vinfast's press conference from Paris was quite the thing. Awkward David Beckham, Miss Vietnam with a flag, bamboo pageantry and guys in tron suits on hoverboards. Oh, and some cars. #Vinfast #ParisMotorShow https://t.co/vpruMAzptV

— Phill Tromans (@PhillTromans) October 2, 2018

Just last week, Beckham dodged a speeding ticket thanks to a technicality. He was accused of driving at 59mph in a 40mph zone in West London on January 23.

Despite admitting the offence, the 43-year-old avoided a penalty after he received a notice of intended prosecution (NIP) a day late – an NIP should be issued within 14 days. Beckham was represented at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court by celebrity lawyer Nick Freeman, known as “Mr Loophole”.

At the Paris Motor Show, a spokesperson for Vinfast said: “The strategy was to show what it takes competing at the highest level internationally, on the global stage, and David Beckham seemed to fit the bill.

“Plus he’s also a hugely popular figure in Vietnam, which is important as it’s the home market. The speeding case was a private matter.”

Vinfast is planning to sell its new models across the world after first launching them in Vietnam.

What is it?

Mazda has a habit of regularly updating its cars with small refinements and improvements, rather than saving them all for a big update every few years. Such is the way with the 2018 CX-3 compact crossover, which you might find difficult to tell apart from its predecessor.

Small changes aside, it’s the same recipe we’ve come to appreciate from Mazda – good looks, a straightforward interior, smooth, naturally-aspirated petrol engines and excellent driving manners.

Does the extra veneer improve the CX-3’s weak points, though?

What’s new?

Oddly enough given the current anti-diesel rhetoric, one of the largest changes for the updated CX-3 is the addition of a new 1.8-litre oil-burner. Mazda UK admits it’s unlikely to be in huge demand, though – the outgoing 1.5 only accounted for 20 per cent of sales.

Elsewhere, changes are discreet to say the least. There’s a revised front grille and some new LED taillights, while the interior sees a redesigned centre console and some new fabric trim.

What’s under the bonnet?

Of the three engines on offer, it’s the base unit that impresses the most. The naturally-aspirated, 119bhp 2.0-litre is smooth and refined around town and mated to a slick six-speed manual it’s also good fun to wring out. The payoff for going naturally aspirated is that official fuel economy results tend to be far closer to reality – the claimed 45.5mpg is certainly achievable.

Compared with modern turbocharged units it does take rather a lot of thrashing to get up to speed, though – you’ll need to explore those upper rev bands a fair amount to get going, which can become tiring.

Also on offer is a 148bhp version of the same engine, which disappointed with an obtrusive and thrashy engine note, while the new diesel is impressively economical but slightly agricultural in character. Four-wheel-drive is an option for the higher-powered petrol engine, while both petrols can also be had with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

What’s it like to drive?

Mazda is somewhat like Ford – both brands are skilled at making ordinary cars with exceptional handling. While the Focus pips the 3 and the Fiesta the 2, Mazda’s CX-3 certainly has the Ford Ecosport licked when it comes to handling in the compact crossover segment.

The CX-3’s steering is sharp and accurate, and front-end grip inspires more confidence than many other cars in this class. There’s not a huge ride penalty, either, and the CX-3 is vastly more comfortable than a Kia Stonic.

Mazda’s tweaked the suspension to give the car a more grown-up feel, but the slightly soft edge might not be to your taste – it soaks up bumps well but tends to bounce over larger crests in the road surface.

It’s a comfortable cruiser though, despite rather a lot of wind roar from those large side mirrors.

How does it look?

Facelifted Mazda CX-3 still a very pleasant thing. pic.twitter.com/xNeEBxO7iZ

— Tom Wiltshire (@mctreckmeister) September 18, 2018

Much like the old CX-3, and that’s no bad thing. Mazda’s family face sits well on the front of this car, and the overall effect of a smaller CX-5 is quite handsome.

The CX-3’s updated grille is flanked by slim LED headlights, mirrored in the distinctive new LED taillights. The whole effect is lifted further by the addition of Mazda’s Soul Red Crystal paint – one of the best colours available on cars today, and an option box well worth ticking.

To be critical, the CX-3 perhaps isn’t quite as well-proportioned as cars such as the Seat Arona – it’s a little nose-heavy, with a few fussy design details. However, it’s still a smart-looking compact crossover.

What’s it like inside?

The CX-3 lifts its interior from the Mazda 2, so there’s a pleasantly driver-focused aspect to the cabin with a wonderfully straightforward gauge cluster. There are rather a lot of different materials on show, of varying quality – we’re not the biggest fans of the suede stripe across the dash on certain models, but other aspects such as the metal surrounds to the air vents feel solid and premium.

The redesigned centre console drops the manual handbrake for an electric one, but as a side effect the controller for Mazda’s infotainment system moves further forward to a far more comfortable location. The system itself is decent, but we’d suggest adding Apple Carplay and Android Auto to improve it further – an optional, dealer-fit extra.

There’s a decent amount of space on offer, but the CX-3 is still more cramped for rear occupants than some rivals such as the Skoda Karoq.

What’s the spec like?

All CX-3s are well equipped – Mazda’s options list rarely extends further than the paint colour. Trim levels start out with SE Nav+, which brings air-con, cruise control, keyless start and Mazda’s infotainment system.

SE-L Nav+, meanwhile adds rear parking sensors, climate control and some extra safety kit. Top-spec Sport Nav adds leather, a Bose surround-sound system and keyless entry, plus LED headlights.

It doesn’t come cheap – the CX-3 starts from £18,995, where a basic Seat Arona can be had from less than £17,000.

Verdict

For keen drivers, the Mazda CX-3 should still be on the compact crossover shortlist – it’s a great little car to drive in and out of the city. Potential buyers should take a good test drive to make sure the character of the naturally-aspirated engine suits them, though – and if you’re not too worried about premium equipment, there is better value to be found elsewhere. But for the most part this is an excellent car with plenty going for it.