If high sales and positive reviews from the media are anything to go by, Mazda created a winner when it introduced the Mazda3 for the 2004 model year. Small freshenings ever since have kept it a jewel in the eyes of enthusiasts looking for something a little sportier in the compact car range.

The Mazda3 sedan is available in two powertrain variants, the entry-level i and the more powerful s. Both models start with a standard Sport trim level and move up to a more feature-laden Touring model. The s is also available in a luxurious Grand Touring variant.

The Mazda3 is a front-wheel-drive compact based on the same Ford C1 platform that underpins the Volvo S40, C70 and C30, as well as the Ford Focus not sold in North America (the Focus sold in North America uses an older platform). All 3s are built in Japan.

Base i models come with a 148-horsepower 2.0 liter four-cylinder that puts out 138 lb-ft. of torque. It's hooked up to either a five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic. The s model packs a 2.3 liter, 156-horspower four cylinder, but the big improvement is in torque, which is up to 150 lb-ft. across a flatter curve. The s is available with either the five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic with the ability to shift manually via a separate gate.

i Sport models come with a CD player, an outside temperature gauge, split-folding rear seat and steering wheel radio controls. The Touring model comes with air conditioning, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver's seat, power windows, locks and mirrors, keyless entry and 16 inch alloy wheels.

s Sports add front curtain and seat-mounted side airbags, antilock brakes, brake assist, and leather wrapping for the steering wheel. Tourings add traction control, stability control and 17 inch alloy wheels. Grand Tourings trump other models with standard heated leather seats, automatic climate control, a trip computer, rain-sensing wipers and automatic Xenon headlamps.

The i models can be upgraded with the ABS and Airbag Package, which, for $395, adds side curtain and seat-mounted airbags and antilock brakes.

The Moonroof and 6-CD package adds a power moonroof and an in-dash CD changer to i Touring, s Sport and s Touring. The same package also adds Bose speakers to the S Grand Touring.

The S Grand Touring is also available with a navigation system that pops up from the dashboard and includes a wireless remote that stores next to the gear lever.