2007 Mazda 3 SP23 review from Australia and New Zealand
"I hope I hold onto this car for a while yet"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Engine light is constantly on due to aftermarket headers and exhaust. Mazda is yet to rectify.
Drivers seat is squeaky sometimes and I weigh only 85kg.
Suspension creaks when driving out of my driveway (lowered springs).
Mazda thankfully got rid of the chime that reminds you you're not wearing a seat belt.
General comments?
Fantastic car, I have installed full headers and 2.5" mandrel bent exhaust that has given a huge increase in performance with a supporting KN panel filter. This car in this form can beat a Toyota Aurion.
Without the headers and KN, the car had average performance and ran a 16 flat 0-400m. The 6 speed Box is crisp and easy to shift, power comes on at 4000rpm and later again at 5500. Not as aggressive as a Honda VTIR Integra VTECs (owned one a few cars ago), but still can match it in stock form.
Inside the car is great, 2 cup holders in the back and 4 in the front. So many great little features and comforts. The climate control is perfect and the aftermarket sunroof really makes this car look the goods, with the super low king springs.
Services from Mazda are around 200-300 every 10k; that's reasonable. Fuel economy is as expected, 7 litres per 100km on highway with climate control and overtaking, and 9-10 litres per 100km around town. Combined it's officially rated at around 8.3.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2007 |
| Year of manufacture | 2007 |
| First year of ownership | 2008 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3litre Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 5000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 30000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Nissan Silvia |
| Date of Entry | 26th November, 2008 |