This ain't your Fathers Protege
NOT like any entry level car you have ever driven. No other car comes close...@ $18,000 loaded this car is a steal. Many cars look the part...but this one delivers looks and performance. Mazda has hit a home run!
Who is Honda anyway?
Compare this to a Honda Civic or a Toyota Corolla and you are flat out nuts! The 3 is way faster, handles ten times as good, and has a longer warranty. What more can you want right? Well it looks better too, and costs the same. I'm tired of the Honda and Toyota cliche. Honda and Toyota aren't better anymore people! And this is coming from a used to be loyal Honda owner. Mazda is it now! Mazda is doing and building cars now, like Honda and Toyota used to.
- i SedanMSRP: $2,500325 mi away
- s 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $4,995386 mi away
- i SedanMSRP: $3,995405 mi away
Best for money
I've had my 3 for a week now, and have put over 600 miles on it. I was also looking at a 03 Civic EX and a 03 Corolla-S. The Mazda 3 wins. It's more powerful, better looking in and out, and just a better vehicle overall. Acceleration is great with the 5-speed. The handling is fun but not so rough that it beats you up. I got 30 mpg of spirited mountain highway driving on the 2nd tank of gas. The blue/orange gauge cluster is the coolest I've seen in this class. Got my Titanium grey, 5-speed S Sedan for $18,000 with the sport package (17's), safety package and xenons. Built in Japan, with the 4-year 50k warranty, what other car offers this much for $18,000?
I like many things about this car
Coming out of a 98 Passat, I wanted more basic ride for my daily driver. The MAZDA3 is good, but certainly not comparable in attention to detail (but it's $7K less!). I am happy with the fuel economy and design, although materials could be better. Mazda should be proud and has a car that competes with the base Jetta and Corolla. The real problem with this car is its brand. Nothing symbolizes second rate more than Mazda with its childish campaigns (please stop!). The goofy kid/song argh! Fortunately for Mazda, the product exceeds its poor brand image. For me, I have to fend off all of my buddies who tease me about Zoom Zoom (its better than Suzuki!).
Can't wait to get mine
After looking at the M3 for months on the website I was glad to finally get in one. The only real disapointment was the comfort of the seats.A bit stiff in cloth, but the leather seats are much more comfortable. Great handling and plenty of get up and go under the hood. Not really sure what options I will be getting, but it is sure to include the sunroof,cd changer and the 4speed automatic. I should have one in the driveway by the end of the week.