From 2007-13, Mazda offered a ... new technology features. Sedan and hatchback body styles continued, but the latter adopted a bobtail shape and sharply sloped rear roofline that looked rakish ...

with all contenders boasting 42.3 inches of front legroom. The tale of the tape diverges most in the rear, where the order is Elantra (38.0 inches of legroom), Honda (37.4), Mazda (35.1).

The Mazda3 is known for its sharp handling and fun-to-drive nature. Competing against the top-selling Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Mazda 3 is offered as a sedan and four-door hatchback.