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The all-new 2010 Mazda3 is fashionable, frugal and fun to drive. Highlights include revised exterior styling, improved fuel economy and power, a more modern interior design and new luxury-oriented features. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevy Cobalt and Ford Focus all had better look out, because the all-new 2010 Mazda3 is now a standout player in the competitive compact-car segment.

The new grille visually ties in with the rest of Mazda’s vehicle lineup while providing more efficient flow of air into the engine and around the car.

The Mazda3 is offered in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback configurations, both with front-wheel drive and a choice of two engines.

The entry-level, commuter-oriented “i” is available only as a sedan, and is offered in SV, Sport and Touring trim levels. The SV comes with a 60/40 split-folding rear seatback, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilting and telescoping steering column, power windows and mirrors, and a 4-speaker stereo with a CD player. The Sport adds air-conditioning and an automatic transmission,

and the Touring trim adds remote keyless entry, cruise control, Bluetooth phone and audio capability and a 6-speaker stereo.

The 3s Sport builds on the 3i Touring model, but with a bigger engine, different front and rear fascias, 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, dual exhaust, a rear lip spoiler, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a trip computer and electro luminescent gauges. The 3s Grand Touring adds automatic bi-xenon headlights with auto-leveling and corner swivel illumination, heated side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats and an 8-way power driver seat.

A technology package featuring a color center display, navigation, Sirius radio, keyless entry, push-button start and perimeter alarm. The i trims are powered by a 2.0-liter version of Mazda’s MZR 4-cylinder engine, which is rated to produce 148 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. The all-aluminum engine features chain-driven cams, variable-valve-timing technology and impressive EPA fuel-efficiency numbers: 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway.