What's all this about?

C-segment diesel sales in the UK are becoming skewed towards vehicles that can dip below the magic 100g/km CO₂ emissions mark - which has benefits both in terms of benefit-in-kind (BIK) company car tax and road fund licences - with 42 per cent of all vehicles sold in the sector capable of such frugal numbers. To that end, Mazda has slotted the 1.5-litre Skyactiv-D unit, seen in the Mazda2 and CX-3 models so far, into its impressive 3 hatchback and Fastback models.

And what are the returns if I so choose this engine for the 3?

You'll see 99g/km and 74.3mpg, enough to place it in Band A for VED (meaning it's free from road tax). That's with the standard-fit six-speed manual, mind; Mazda is also offering the 3 hatchback (but not the Fastback) with a six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission. However, while that version isn't bad on fuel either, its emissions climb to 114g/km, moving it to Band C (£0 year one, £30 annually thereafter). And it costs an extra £1,200, to boot.

How much does the 1.5d start from?

The 1.5-litre engine, which delivers 105hp at 4,000rpm and 270Nm from 1,600- to 2,500rpm, will power the 3 from 0-62mph in 11.0 seconds in manual format. To enjoy the Mazda3 1.5d, you'll need at least £18,895 for the SE model (as either a hatch or Fastback). Trim lines run SE, SE Nav, SE-L, SE-L Nav and Sport Nav, with the automatic Sport Nav hatchback the most expensive 1.5d, at £23,145. All Fastbacks, as stated earlier, are manuals (and therefore are all free from VED requirements), so the five-model line-up there culminates in the £21,945 Sport Nav.