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.
- s Grand Touring SedanMSRP: $4,99513 mi away
- s Sport 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,99865 mi away
- i Touring SedanMSRP: $2,995103 mi away
The most fun car I've ever driven
Hands down this is the most fun car I've ever driven. This car has actually made me look forward to my hour long commute every morning. The power is more than sufficient and the handling is excellent. The only drawbacks to this car are the two very minor recalls already issued (although my dealer was able to fix them both in under and hour) and the gas mileage.
Outstanding
I traded in my 2000 Ford Ranger using the cash for clunkers program. AKA car rebate allowance. Just incredible. I researched new vehicles for a few months and found the winner. I don't miss my truck one bit. I have a few more miles to go, but am very impressed so far. The xenon headlamps, moonroof, bose system, adaptive headlamps, too many features to list. You get your $ worth and then some. Other vehicles with all the things I have on this would cost me thousands more. 1st time Mazda buyer. THANK YOU MAZDA! ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM! Really!
Practical with style and handling
It's so easy to get in and drive. Mine has the Bose/tech package with moonroof. I didn't need the nav so the smallish screen doesn't bother me. Bluetooth hands free operation is easy and the media console is well laid out for use. The stereo beats that of my former 2007 G35. I'm averaging 26.8 in mixed driving with high-octane gas. Rear seats fold flat and hatch hide cover removes easily to really load it up when you need to. I hauled a full sized mountain bike in their and only had to move the passenger seat forward a bit. Everything works. It brakes effectively and it's generally a quiet ride at any speed. My 5'10" son fits in back with a couple inches to spare. Hard to beat the value.