2005 Mazda 3 mazda3i 2.0 from North America

Summary:

Amazing value

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong with my car so far. Not even a rattle or annoyance of any kind.

General Comments:

My car, a sedan with the "i" 2.0 litre engine, has amazed me. Although I wish I'd opted for the 2.3's increased power, I'm happy enough with my car not to be pining away for something else -- not even a BMW 3-series, for example. The Mazda 3i has skid-pad capabilities and quality "feel" that nudge up against the RX8's and the 350Z's -- for less than $20,000.

I also own a late-model Elantra, and soon after buying the Mazda3 I almost couldn't drive the Elantra any more until I spent $1,200 upgrading the springs and dampers because it seemed so unsafe in comparison to the Mazda3's confidence-inspiring suspension.

This is the only car I've ever seen that actually seems competent in classes far beyond its means. In other words, it's classed as a compact family car, but in my mind competes with BMW, Saab, C-class M-B, and Acura.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th October, 2005

2005 Mazda 3 S 2.3L from North America

Summary:

Best of Show

Faults:

Nothing as of yet.

General Comments:

The car handles like nobodys business. Windy country roads are a blast.

Great car for the money inside and out.

A review I read sums up the interior pretty well, it went something like BMW wishes they could offer an interior that nice for $40,000... GM wishes they could offer an interior that nice period. I thought that was funny and true.

Car is very sharp, I get compliments all the time. I would recommend the S model, it looks much better then the I and has better features, worth the money.

Very quick for a 4 cyl. and I'm happy with it, but if it came in a 6 cyl. I would have gotten it.

The "dead spot" in 1st gear is true, but not too annoying and doesn't seem to happen every time. VVT gives noticeable boost to horse power.

Overall a great car, blast to drive and a pleasure to own.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th October, 2005

2005 Mazda 3 S 2.3 from North America

Summary:

Get one. NOW!!!

Faults:

Nothing at all. It's sweet.

General Comments:

This car is a blast to drive. It is quick, sounds cool, and looks good too.

Back seats are small, for children only.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd June, 2005