Nowadays, even non-premium compact hatchbacks need to be well-built, comfortable, full of tech and good to drive in order to fit in.

In this comparison test from Kelley Blue Book, we’ve got the Mazda3 standing in as the “hatchback of reference”, while Subaru’s newly redesigned Impreza, Honda’s new Civic and the Chevy Cruze provide the competition.

The 350-mile (563 km) long test route incorporated long stretches of winding roads, and even featured some of Southern California’s top driving roads, which apparently suited the Mazda3 the best.

On the highway, it was the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze that impressed the most due to its gentle ride and quiet cabin, although it wasn’t without its minuses, such as the smaller boot, and less spacious cabin (compared to the Civic and the Impreza).

Speaking of the interior, aside from the Cruze having the best infotainment system, the most well-built cabins belonged to the Mazda3 and the Civic, the latter also standing out due to its impressive cargo utility.

Unfortunately, KBB again isn’t playing any favorites when it comes to drawing a hard conclusion. Although according to their own Expert Ratings (during individual test drives), the Civic and the Mazda3 had the best scores.

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