The carmaker says the new Mazda3 marks a major step forward over the old model and offers a class-leading combination of performance, excellent fuel economy and low emissions, with the latter delivering tax savings to drivers and businesses.

The third-generation model, which will be available in hatchback and fastback (saloon) body styles, will debut two new SKYACTIV engines: the SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre 99bhp and the 2.0-litre 118bhp, both of which up to 55.4mpg on the combined cycle and emissions from 119gkm. The range also introduces powerplants already seen in the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6 in the form of the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre 163bhp with up to 48.7mpg fuel consumption on the combined cycle and emissions of 135g/km and the SKYACTIV-D 2.2 148bhp, which meets Euro 6 emission standards and returns up to 72.4mpg with emissions from 104g/km.

The latter model is anticipated to be the best-seller in the corporate market, with Mazda highlighting its significant CO2 and MPG advantages over rivals as well as its major BiK tax savings to drivers and corporate tax and National Insurance savings to employers.

Mazda head of fleet Steve Tomlinson said: ‘A class-leading combination of performance, CO2 emissions and fuel economy, means that the all-new Mazda3 gives fleet managers and company car drivers a real alternative to the traditional in both the C and C/D-segments.

‘The introduction of SKYACTIV technology in both the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6 within the past 12 months has helped to increase Mazda's penetration in the fleet sector and the arrival of the all-new Mazda3 with similar benefits will further enhance our fleet proposition.’

The carmaker adds that the £28,410 (OTR) BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics 4dr with CO2 emissions of 109g/km and fuel economy of 68.9mpg is generally regarded as setting the emissions and fuel economy benchmarks in the C/D sector.

Tomlinson continued: ‘The all-new Mazda3 fastback with CO2 emissions of 104g/km, fuel economy of 72.4mpg and priced from £19,245 establishes a new performance threshold. Additionally, with a BiK tax rate of just 15% in 2014, the significantly lower list price means major savings for both businesses and company car drivers.’

Prices start at £16,695 for the 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G 99bhp SE hatchback and extend to £23,345 for the 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D 148bhp Sport Nav auto hatchback. The range goes on sale in January 2014.

Watch the New Mazda3 video here