The compact SUV sector is fiercely competitive and now Mazda has upped the ante with the launch of a flagship GT Sport special edition along with a number of technology updates for its CX-3 line-up.

The new-look 13-model CX-3 range features eight 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol models and five SKYACTIV-D 105bhp diesels.

Offered with either 120bhp or 150bhp, the 2.0-litre petrol engine accounts for 80 per cent of UK sales. Joining the 120bhp SKYACTIV-G petrol line up, the GT Sport comes with manual or automatic gearboxes and is priced at £22,895 and £24,095 respectively.

The SKYACTIV-D 1.5-litre diesel engine completes the engine line up and with emissions of 105g/km the front-wheel drive version has an official combined economy of 70.6mpg.

The revised CX-3 boasts a new-look steering wheel and extra cabin refinement across the range with added sound absorbing material in key areas like the dashboard, tailgate, transmission tunnel and boot to improve the insulation of the car.

In addition, petrol models now feature re-tuned engine mounts that reduce resonance inside the cabin.

Standard from SE-L Nav trim onwards, the advanced smart city brake support system has been upgraded to include pedestrian detection.

Other new equipment highlights include heated, auto-power folding door mirrors across the range and on Sport Nav models a heated steering wheel and a colour head-up display are now standard. A power adjustment and memory function has also been added to the optional leather and suede seats.

Michio Tomiyama, Mazda CX-3 programme manager, said: “The Mazda CX-3 was the fifth model in our new-generation line-up. We wanted to make a compact crossover SUV that would support customers’ creative lifestyles. The model has been very popular thanks to its unique and stylish design and it was a top-three finalist for the 2016 World Car Design of the Year award.

“Many people tell us that they bought the CX-3 after falling in love with it at first sight. This update ensures the CX-3 will continue to resonate with cutting-edge customers who feel strongly about their cars.”

The updated CX-3 range is now priced from £18,495.