Excellent Value
My Mazda 3 was actually the last car on my list to test drive. I rejected the Mini S, Camry, Accord, Mitsu's, Dodge, Ford, Audi 4, and Volvo, all for various issues and reasons. The 3 was a delight to drive from the moment I turned the key. Sport suspension, quick turn-in, super brakes, smooth engine and powertrain, quality build throughout. What's not to love? The copper-red paint and pleasantly good looks bring many compliments. As can be expected for sport sedans, the ride can feel noticeably taut over tar strips and rough roads, but it never loses its composure, inspiring confidence in even the most timid drivers. The engine comes on strongest while manually shifting the slick automatic near 4000 rpm.
Best Bang for the Buck...AGAIN!
I bought this to replace my beloved Civic Si after the great reviews I had read and the exhaustive research available on the net. This is by far Mazda's best offering for the money in any class. The engine is peppy if not outright powerful. The exterior design is broad shouldered & modern. The interior is well though out & purposeful. Material quality could be better as the plastics get dirty quickly but can be easily cleaned. The mileage is the biggest disappointment as only strictly adhering to the 55 speed limit will get you EPA advertised mpg.
- s Touring SedanMSRP: $3,99529 mi away
- i SedanMSRP: $3,901362 mi away
- s 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $4,995372 mi away
Great Fun Car
Gave my reliable '97 Ford Escort to a church and got a new Mazda3. It's lots of fun and feels great. I thought it was head and shoulders better than the 2006 Civic.
Excellent overall
The fit an finish on the car is outstanding. Both exterior and interior styling are top-notch. Car is sporty to drive even with the smaller 2.0. Very practical and reliable. Driving position is very comfortable. Visibility is excellent. I would highly recommend this car.
Poor Man's BMW
Have owned this car almost 3 yrs. No mechanical/quality problems. Routine service only. Handles similar to my drowned BMW 325i, despite that it is FWD (specs for size wt and interior dimensions close, but definitely not nearly as refined as BMW, but ok for ~1/2 the price. Excellent outward visibility. Mileage ~22 mpg city and high 20's hwy. Good looking, especially to the younger set. Lots of amenities, leather, rain-sensing wipers, 5 speed auto with manual mode, atuo on-off headlights, side air bags, CD, heated seats, and more. Would definitely recomend this model for someone who wants a fun to drive, economical, utilitarian and reliable car that runs on regular gas. It is a GLC as in great little car.