On the road: THE CX-3, baby brother to the bigger CX-5, is aiming to take on Nissan’s Sunderland-built Juke, among others, in what is fast becoming one of the car industry’s key battlegrounds.

If it looks somewhat familiar that is because the CX-3 is the latest model to follow the intriguingly titled Kodo: Soul of Motion design philosophy.

To that end, there are echoes of all other cars in the company’s range as Mazda aims to engender a sense of a previously missing corporate identity.

First impressions of the new model are favourable.

Its design will turn heads and spark envy among other road users.

While it shares DNA with the bigger CX-5, it’s more compact shape gives it a more appealing presence.

The firm, but fair, ride allied to responsive steering meant there was fun to be had on the twists and turns.

And when I got a little over ambitious, the CX-3 bailed me out with its surefootedness.

On the inside: JUST as much dedication has been poured into the interior. The cabin is ultra stylish, improving on what its rivals have to offer and setting a bar that others coming down the line will have to try and match.

It looks and feels high quality. The materials used are of an impressive standard and you feel like you are getting your money’s worth. My three kids gave it a good going over during the summer holidays and it stood up impressively to their often rather robust treatment.

What do you get: MAZDA doesn’t want any of its customers to believe they have bought an entry level car, giving all models in its 18-car line-up an impressive list of equipment that might cost you thousands of pounds as options elsewhere.

A 7ins touchscreen, DAB radio, Bluetooth and multi-function steering wheel all come as standard.

Sport Nav badged models, which Mazda expects most interest in, feature satellite navigation with three years of free European mapping updates, a Bose sound system, smart keyless entry and a head up display system.

Safety is a key area for Mazda and the CX-3 features hill hold assist and dynamic stability control, among other items, as standard. Further up the range you get a lane departure warning system and Smart City Brake Support – the latter something that could reduce your insurance premiums.

How practical is it: In terms of space, four people can be carried in comfort and five with little compromise in the rear. While there’s 350 litres of luggage space, increasing to 1,260 litres with the seats down.

Running costs: MAZDA reckon you can get around 48mpg on the combined cycle and we came pretty close during our time with the car. CO2 emissions are 137g/km for this particular car, which isn’t great, but then this car does have a 2.0 litre engine under the bonnet.

Verdict: STYLISH, sporty and desirable Alternatives: Nissan Juke, Vauxhall Mokka, MINI Countryman