This is one competitor you forgot about.
No "fish mouth" design here.
If I were looking for a hatch other than Mazda, this one I would buy in a minute.
The Volvo C30 hatchback.
Bob.

 

While certainly a better looking car than the new 3, I understand that it is truly unimpressive to drive, has a boring (re: BORING interior and I do have personal experience w/that)... and more money too.
Remember please that I once loved my Volvos. I think at one time I had 8 of them. Two actually ran too.

 

The other one I like is the Subaru Impreza...

 

It would look better if the fuel filler access door was either oval (like the 3) or round.

Funny I never noticed that about the WRX before you posted this pic.

 

know what with the cars nowadays looking futuristic it makes you wonder what is next in the future.. i think the new 3 is butt ugly. but i do like the wrx and if i get a new car again id be thinking subaru. i dont know it hasnt grown on me.. my dad loves it and is likel its nicer then your body style.. nahhhhh no way