AFTER a burst of styling creativity with the last series of 323s, Mazda has swung back to conservatism. The latest 323s are more anonymous to look at, but more practical cars that iron out the rough dynamic edges of their predecessors. Slightly shorter but roomier, they offer comfort where the previous range concentrated on kerbside appeal. Interior space, road performance and quality are all of a high standard. The 1.6-litre entry-level version is slightly reluctant on-road the 1.8-litre does a much better job.