This is a Japanese BMW
This is my 3rd Mazda 1989. My first Mazda I drove to 134,000 without ever changing the gear shift. My second Mazda 2002 to 89,899 miles until I got rear ended on the interstate in her, I sadly gave her in I loved her. Now a used Mazda 3 2007 I-Touring. A writer on this site stated it right. It is like driving a Japanese BMW. Her interior is awesome. The seats are so comfy. I discovered city driving I am getting about 25 miles to the gallon. Highway driving I am unsure of at this point. Mazda brand is good. This car loves to drive but she is a bit sluggish than my old Mazda. It might be because I drove my old Mazda 9 years.
Versatile and fun Mazda 3
I've had my 2007 GT for almost a year. It has been a fun car to drive and easy to live with. The versatile hatchback converts to a mini-SUV when you remove the cargo cover and fold the seats - I've had 14 bags of mulch back there! The 2.3 with automatic is peppy enough, however on hills with the AC running it can get a little strained. GT standard equipment is generous. Annoyances: over time some of the interior plastic panels have developed rattles, and the auto trans sometimes hesitates between 1st and 2nd gears. I would buy this car again but would go for the MazdaSpeed 3 with the manual tranny. Overall a great car which you can get loaded for low $20s.
- s Touring 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,995109 mi away
- s Grand Touring 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $4,990130 mi away
- s Grand Touring SedanMSRP: $2,995191 mi away
Zoom2
As I have rated the fuel economy is bad for this large 4cyl engine. Tires lasted about 21000 miles. Mazda should sue Goodyear. I went with Dunlop 60K sport tires. The paint chips very easily. I have the spoiler on the back and the gasket between the trunk and where the spoiler attaches is coming out. All in all I still love the way this car drives and handles. I have 30k on it know and it still feels sound.
Best Car I've Owned so far
I bought the i sport base model, 5 speed (I don't buy automatics) with no power options. Handling and cornering is excellent, and the engine and transmission are smooth. Passing is no problem as long as you know how to drive. I have been very happy with this car thus far. It's a very affordable car that I actually take pride in. I wouldn't even consider a civic or corolla after buying this car. I drove the base model Mazda6 and would take the Mazda3 any day. I did put after market 17 inch rims on the car. With steel 15 inch steel rims I averaged 33 MPG mixed driving, with the larger wheels I average 28 MPG. This car is very reliable and I look forward to driving it every chance I can.
My Mazda
I purchased this car last feb because of its affordability, fuel economy, and appearance. I feel that the Mazda3 has exceeded all my expectations in comparison to all the other economy vehicles. It's fast and I don't feel like I'm driving a piece of junk.