Awed By Stock Handling
Performance: 7/10 is because this car is too underpowered as far as performance goes. I came from a 200hp Jeep and a 300whp turbo integra so this is more or less the slowest car I've owned (although at highway speeds+ the mazda would prob. blow the doors off the Jeep because of aerodynamics and gear ratios). Comfort: Nice interior, only thing I'd improve is move the armrest closer to the shifter. Fuel Economy: Impressive. I average 30MPG, and that's with mostly "city" driving. Fun To Drive: YES! Awe-inspiring handling for a stock car compared to my souped up integra with very aggressive suspension & tires, AND limited slip diff. If the engine note was louder it'd be just about perfect.
I wanted to buy another one
I am in love with this car, I you feel connected with this car.Stylish , no cheap plastics, high end designing and features.
- i Touring SedanMSRP: $6,90020 mi away
- i Sport SedanMSRP: $6,99025 mi away
- i Touring SedanMSRP: $4,99526 mi away
Love it!
This car looks and feels amazing! Handling is top notch, and the acceleration with the S is great. Even at high speeds the car has plenty of pep to reach down and enable easing passing on the highway. The styling is sleek and aggressive. As others have commented, the car gets mistaken for a Lexus IS 250, especially the rear styling.
Lots of car in a manageable package!
Was looking for a fun-to-drive, economical car for daily use and after research, narrowed it down to the VW GTI or the Mazda 3. The VW was more powerful, but the Mazda3 GT 5-door won me over due to its premium features and content, pricing, an engine that doesn't require premium unleaded (unlike the VW), and its comfort and handling. I have had the car for over two months now, and I haven't regretted my decision one bit. I love my Mazda, and I love the fact that I got so many premium, luxury-level features in a small, nimble and efficient vehicle. The blue accent lighting in the interior is a nice touch, and the fit and finish seems to be great. I'm very happy with my purchase.
Luxury Car Replacement?
This is an initial review and I'll provide more feedback after logging more miles. However, here are some first thoughts. The Mazda 3s GT is a very fun car to drive, with good performance and excellent handling. It is not very refined, with much engine noise and some cheap interior materials. It is a very good car, but maybe not as great as people say. Compared to a Civic or Corolla it is worlds better; compared to an Audi or Saab it is worlds worse. The decontenting (no more mirror signals, foot well illumination, etc) that took place mid-year gives away some of the car's edge on competitors.