Best car in the segment.
Test drove the Civic, Carolla, Sentra, and Forte. Forte was a close second. Mazda3 had the best performance, design (our opinion), features, and overall build quality. The performance was the biggest deciding point. Driving a Civic after a Mazda3 was like night and day. The engine, transmission, steering, and suspension work very well together to provide a comfortable but fun ride. We've been getting 35mpg on the highway with the larger 2.5L engine and 5 speed automatic. If you are shopping in this segment I would HIGHLY recommend test driving a 3. You might be surprised at how this car stands out from the other appliances on the road.
Glad I bought
Just got this car a couple weeks ago. All I can say is that I always have a smile on my face when I am behind the wheel. The car hugs the road and a blast to drive. Interior is nice to look at and really comfortable. Plenty of cargo room for all of my gear. A big improvement of any other car I have owned. I love the Bose sound. Just traded in a 2004 Altima. The only down side is I wish it had better fuel economy.
- s Sport 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,998191 mi away
- i Sport SedanMSRP: $2,881169 mi away
- i Touring SedanMSRP: $6,99580 mi away
Fun Pocket Rocket
Excellent performance & handling. Surprisingly good mpg, I average 29 mpg. Fun to drive baby! Cons: speedometer/tac display view blocked by steering wheel(design flaw); small gas & odometer gauges seem almost an afterthought. Single high note horn is pathetic. No engine temp/oil gauges. And why would you put the fuel filler cap on the Right side of the car!!??
Love it!
Major upgrade from 2007 Chevy Aveo. Far more powerful and nimble. All the bells and whistles. Two months after having it still very satisfied. One thing I thought of is how much safer I am and everyone else in this compared to my previous car or the SUV I used to drive. You can brake and accelerate quicker, and there is minimal body roll. You are in control of this car, whereas the SUV you are along for the ride. Just think of those Trucks and SUVs we all have to drive next to that need so much more room to stop and have to slow to a crawl to turn. This is a great vehicle. Great Job Mazda!
zoom zoom
Looked at civic, accord even charger. Do yourself a favor and drive the 3. The front end will grow on you. Rides like a Z. I'm almost 40 and love aggressive ride and throttle response.