The Mazda3 has been praised for its green credentials.
Green Car Journal has included the Mazda3 in its 2014 Green Car of the Year (GCOY) program.
The vehicle has been praised alongside the Audi A6 TDI, BMW 328d, Honda Accord and Toyota Corolla in the award, which honours the best new cars with the greatest green credentials each year. All of the models have received the magazine's Green Car Product of Excellence award.
Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal, commented: "The diversity of this field of finalists illustrates not only that 'green' has gone mainstream, but also that there is no single approach to achieving ever higher levels of fuel efficiency and environmental performance."
"There's something for everyone in this year's field of finalists, including clean diesel, high efficiency gasoline and hybrid/plug-in hybrid power featured in mainstream, sporty and executive models."
The Mazda3 is the company's best-selling model across the world and was praised by the Green Car Journal for its lightness, efficiency and advanced electronics. It was also recognised for its use of award-winning
SKYACTIV technology, which increases fuel efficiency and engine output.
GCOY is part of Green Car Journal's mission to promote the environmental progress being made by the automotive industry and the 2014 award was judged by renowned figures such as Tonight Show host Jay Leno, Jean-Michel Cousteau, president of the Ocean Futures Society and president of the US Natural Resources Defense Council Frances Beinecke.
All of the vehicles honoured by the award must have mass-market availability, so that they have the potential to make a real difference to the environment.
As the UK public becomes increasingly aware of environmental issues and the need to cut down on harmful carbon emissions, green cars are becoming popular.
Earlier this month, research from Baylor University revealed owning a more environmentally-friendly vehicle can actually boost the self-esteem of drivers. According to the organisation's study, people with such cars are pleased by both the petrol savings they make and the pride and prestige that comes with driving this type of vehicle.