CAP has forecast residual values of up to 37% for the new Mazda3 - ahead of rivals such as the Honda Civic and Volvo V40, but still behind the Volkswagen Golf.

Data from vehicle information providers CAP suggests that at the benchmark of three years/60,000 miles used by some fleets, the new Mazda3 will retain up to 37% of its value - comfortably out performing many competitors.

The Mazda3 petrol-engine hatchback and Fastback models are expected to retain up to 35% of their value at three-years/60,000 miles, according to CAP.

The valuation experts predict that the residual value pacesetters will be the 2.0-litre 5dr hatchback 120ps SE petrol (£16,940) retaining 35%/£5,950 with a similar percentage value being retained by the the other 2.0-litre petrol engine models.

CAP forecasting editor (cars) Jeff Knight said: "As another iteration of the KODO design, all new Mazda3 creates a genuinely distinctive look and feel for a C-sector car.

"It’s wider and lower, giving it a more assured road presence - a visual appeal that has already paid off for the new Mazda6.

"Inside there are obvious improvements in the materials used and in the car’s build quality. An increase in interior space has also been achieved, which will be attractive to buyers.

"Allied with lightweight Skyactiv technology, a well specified car with a 150hp diesel engine offering from just 104g/km of CO2 is a genuinely interesting and competitive player in a heavily crowded sector.!

Mazda head of fleet Steve Tomlinson said: "All-new Mazda3 represents a fantastic cost-effective alternative to the perceived mainstream models in the lower medium sector.

"With fresh styling, great vehicle dynamics, low CO2 emissions, excellent fuel economy and now first-class residual values, we expect the all-new Mazda3 to secure its own niche on the fleet map alongside the ever popular new Mazda6 and the increasingly in-demand Mazda CX-5.

"The introduction of Skyactiv technology in both the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6 within the past 13 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 corporate proposition."

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