Part of that handling prowess is due to a rigid body structure, enhancing torsional and flexural stiffness. The steering is said to be "precise, linear and predictable in all situations," according to Mazda's press materials, something I don't doubt being that the older, less sophisticated Protegé was fabulous. The 3 sports larger brakes too, as well as a linear booster for more immediate response to pedal input.

The steering is said to be "precise, linear and predictable in all situations," according to Mazda's press materials. (Photo: Mazda)

Wheels and tires start at 15-inch steel on 195/65R15 all-season tires. GS models get 15-inch alloys, while 16-inch alloys wrapped in 205/55R16 all-season tires are available in GS trim with the Sport Package, standard on the GT. GTs with the GFX package get a set of 17-inch alloy rims on 205/50R17 all-season tires. The GFX package features other go-fast goodies too, including sportier bumpers, front mud guards, sport fog lights, side sill extensions, a body colored front grille, and a power glass moonroof with front map lamps.

The 3 is not only a more sophisticated car than the outgoing Protegé, but it looks more upscale as well. (Photo: Mazda)

There's lots of room for storage too. Sedans feature 323 L (11.4 cu ft) of trunk space, while the more accommodating Sport offers 484 L (17.1 cu ft) with all seats in use, and a substantial 884 L (31.2 cu ft) when both sections of the 60/40 split seatback are folded forward.

But not to get bogged down with features and specs, the car on the whole looks to be a major winner. Only time will tell if it is successful in a much more competitive market than its predecessor, but my hunch is it will break new ground for the sporty Japanese brand. The 3 is not only a more sophisticated car than the outgoing Protegé, but it looks more upscale as well. This will help it do well here in Canada, where small cars rule the sales charts and consumers have to stretch the value for money proposition farther than our friends south of the border.