The 2014 Mazda3 has been awarded "Car of the Year" from AutoGuide.com.

Beating out four other finalists, the third-generation model has updated safety technology and connectivity, according to a press release.

The Car of the Year award, which was presented for the second time this year, goes to one of five finalists chosen as standout all-new vehicles in five segments: compact car, mid-size sedan, full-size sedan, compact luxury and mid-size luxury.

"Combining attractive styling inside and out, with impressive features in versatile packaging, the 2014 Mazda3 is also efficient and fun to drive," said Colum Wood, editorial director at AutoGuide.com.  "It's not that the Mazda3 is a great compact car; it's simply a great car, period."

The Mazda3, selected from the compact car category, boasts a suite of crash detection systems and a next-generation, driving-focused connectivity system.

The car is available in a series of options ranging from engine to exterior. The four-door model has 41 highway miles per gallon, while the five-door version gets 40 mpg.

The 2.0-liter gasoline engine produces 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and can be paired with either the six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The larger engine option offers 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque and is available with the automatic transmission. 

"We truly put our best foot forward with the all-new 2014 Mazda3, not only to be competitive within its class but to be the vehicle that consumers have asked for," Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations, said in the press release. 

"Never one to shy away from dynamic handling, this all-new Mazda3 also is value-minded, safety-oriented and technology-driven.  Our best-selling vehicle worldwide should feature the best of what Mazda has to offer as well as give hints as to what's to come not just for the model lineup but for the brand as a whole."

The Mazda3 also won an award for innovation last month from the Motor Press Guild.

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