JUST exactly why is silence golden? The car companies know because years ago some discovered that quietness was the hallmark of quality. Look at Rolls-Royce. Wags would quip that the only thing you’re likely to hear in the cabin of a Roller was the ticking of the clock. That exclusivity has diminished with the years as other car-makers realise that a serene interior ambience delivers a serene owner – and hopefully return custom. Although highly regarded in most areas, the Mazda3 never quite made the grade as a quiet achiever. There were minor quibbles with noise, vibration and harshness. Thanks to a well targeted facelift for Mazda's popular small car, however, those issues have been resolved.