The Mazda 3 may just be the perfect blend of style with substance.

Available in two body styles across six main variants with either a 2.0-litre or 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel was available for a short period of time) with either a manual or automatic transmission, the 3 range is certainly not short of options.

But, with the Mazda 3 being consistently a high seller, a good range of variants and a mid-life update to consider, should you buy one and if so, which one should you buy?

What goes wrong with a used Mazda 3 (BM)?

• Engine mounts can wear resulting in excessive noise and vibrations
• Rear brake calipers can have issues and may require adjustment

Should you buy a used Mazda 3 (BM)?

Yes.

This generation of Mazda 3 mixes reliability, practicality, safety and excellent driving dynamics. It then wraps those attributes in a gorgeous body shell and fills it with an interior that is not only comfortable but feels far more expensive than it is. We highly recommend the Mazda 3, find any cared-for 3 with a solid service history and you’ll have yourself an excellent car.