Big Bang for a Modest Price

Options:
We got an S model sedan with a 4-speed automatic. We also selected the moonroof & 6 cd package, and sport package.

Previous Cars:
We traded in a fully optioned 2000 Ford Focus SE because of extensive mechanical problems. We have also recently owned or currently own a 1997 Honda Civic LX, a 1996 Neon, a 1993 Mazda Protege DX, and a 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T, a 1986 Pontiac Firebird and a 1979 Honda Civic. It was our experience with the extremely reliable Protege (230,000 miles with only minor repairs and still running) that brought us to the Mazda Dealership.

Other Cars Tested Prior to Purchase:
Prior to buying the Mazda, we also test drove a Nissan Sentra, Honda Civic, Cooper Mini, and Volkswagen Jetta.

Performance:
This car, with the 2.3L engine, has some serious zip for a compact car and seemed quicker than the other cars we test drove. The autostick option is a blast to use when you crave a little sportiness, and the convenience of the full automatic transmission is a lifesaver when stuck in traffic. The car's suspension is tight but not jarring, and is a blast to drive down a curvy country road. While not a full-fledged sports car, the Mazda3 has more than enough zip to put a smile on your face when merging onto the highway. The brakes are strong

Appearance:
We found the Mazda to be the best looking of all the compact cars currently offered for under $20,000. The quality of the interior is far more attractive than anything out there for under $20k. We have had several compliments on the look of the car, especially the velocity red paint, which has metallic flecks which shine brightly in the sun. The blue-lit speedometer with red numbers are truly cool and are easy on the eyes at night.

Comfort:
The drivers seat is fully adjustable including height and lumbar support as well as the traditional tilt and forward-back. The steering wheel both tilts and telescopes, so the optimal driving position can be set for almost any driver. The seats are firm and supportive with plenty of lateral support from large side bolsters. The ride is quiet for a compact and the engine is quiet at 65 mph. Steering is light but communicative. Rear seats are comfortable for adults. Unlike many compacts, the passenger gets as much hip room as the driver, and the console is exactly in the middle of the car

Convenience:
The left side of the steering wheel has controls for radio volume, mute, radio mode (cd,fm1,fm2,am), and a selector button which can be used to advance cd tracks or cycle through preset radio stations. This option is incredibly convenient and is sorely missed when driving our other car. The right side of the steering wheel has cruise control buttons. The glove box is voluminous as is the two-compartment center console. There are six cup holders in the car, one in each door and two in the center console, which is useful on long trips. The 60-40 fold down rear seats are helpful, but the rear headrests have to be removed to fold the seats down completely. Driver's side one touch down power windows are great. The trunk is very large; the optional cargo net is strongly recommended.

The only Minor criticism we have with the car is that there is no trunk release button on the remote key fob, the trunk must be opened with the key or from the remote release at the foot of the driver's seat. Admittedly this is a very minor criticism for an otherwise brilliant vehicle.

Economy:
The car runs great on regular 87 octane gas and we have observed 27-30 miles to the gallon, which is good but not great for a compact. The car utilizes low viscosity oil (5w-20) and cartridge oil filters, which is better for the environment, but can raise the price of oil changes if you prefer to use Jiffy Lube or Expressway. Oil changes at Mazda are still just $19.95, but usually take longer and require an appointment. The 17" rims and tires that come with the sport package look great, are quiet and grippy, but are likely to be more expensive than the 16" standard tires.

Safety/Security:
The car comes standard with front and side airbags. Side Curtain and rear side airbags are optional and come with the ABS package. The key comes with a chip that transmits a code to the computer. If you try to start it without a programmed key, the vehicle will immobilize itself. The door remote unlock function lights the interior. If the car is remotely unlocked, but a door is not opened within 30 seconds, the car will relock itself. The rear seats can be locked to deny access to the trunk from the interior of the vehicle. The glove box can also be locked.

Reliability:
We have not had a single problem, although we have only owned the car for approximately 7 months.

Update 3/24/05
We have now owned the car for ten months, the car has 20,000 miles and we are still extremely happy with the car. However, we received a recall notice to have the airbag crash zone sensor replaced. This was a precautionary recall, as Mazda discovered an issue whereby water could get into the connector of the crash zone sensor causing a short that may keep the airbag from deploying in a crash. The recall work took two hours to complete, and was fully paid for by Mazda. We still rank the car as extremely reliable, as there is always a recall or two with a first model year vehicle, and replacement was preventative of a problem which had not yet occurred. Mazda 3's purchased after Mazda discovered the problem will have the updated crash zone sensor already installed.