We do not have a cabin air filter, I was specifically told about this by my dealer. Washer fluid low indicator, I cannot say for sure. I have never had it come in on mine, but I've never run low/out of fluid to my knowledge, either- it's always been there, even after fairly heavy use. Must be a pretty big reservoir!
No, there's no washer fluid indicator. I ran out this winter without an indicator light. No biggie...in winter it's best to drive around with a jug of the stuff anyway
From what you all are saying, it seems to me the A/C isn't dehumidifying the car as much as it should, that's why Bill feels sweaty. It gets cold but doesn't lower the humidity or drain it away. When it's 85F and the humidity is lowered the interior can feel cooler than it actually is, in fact it can still be 85F, but occupants will feel more comfortable. Cooling is more than just cold air blowing in.
If the outside temp is 90F degrees the inside temp will probably be 110F, which means it will take longer to cool the car, so turning on the A/C immediately without first venting the heat will not produce the desired result. Better to open all the windows and drive for a while to blow out the superhot air, THEN turn on the A/C, set to Recirculate, and the fan at highest mark. Let it run for at least 15 minutes while the car is moving before resetting to the regular position. The A/C needs those rpm to pump the cold air. Don't expect it to be very cold for at least 30 minutes and at 90F it may not feel as cold as you would like, but may lower the humidity.
Of course, stepping outside and then getting back in it's going to feel cooler but body temperature quickly adjusts and it's hot, again, and you think the A/C isn't working. This happens all the time in houses. Bill may be one of those people who feels hot and sweaty when others may be comfortable. I'm cold natured, any temp below 78F feels chilly to me and 70F is COLD!
I drive a BMW 5and my wife has a RSX Type S that is killing her back. So we swapped cars(Stay single) now the Accura is bumpty bump. The roads in Maine are not that good after a rough winter. So does the Mazda 3 s 5dr. ride as stiff as as the RSX? Thank you.
Hi !! Ism barry42 !! Between the years '90 & '99 while living in Raleigh I traveled to Maine once every 3 weeks !! I was marketing to the paper mills, so , as you can imagine, I flew into Bangor, stayed overnight , rented a car. [a different model each time ] and drove to places like Rumford and Millinocket and Woodland !! When i was goofing off I loved to take a run down to Eastport and Bar Harbor and Bath !! So , you see I have a little bit of an idea how "good" your roads are !! I,m retired now and living here in Guatemala -- I promise you the roads are much worse than yours !! I bought a Mazda3 HB in Feb. of '04 , manly because of the suspension design !! I love the car so much that two weeks ago I bought a Mazda3 Sedan for my wife !! It is an '06 and should be here in early July !! I have owned 29 different cars in my life and rented many more !! I have had slipped discs in my back for most of my life so you can imagine that comfort in a car is important for me !! Being a marketer I used to drive 60,000 to 70,000 miles a year !! I hardly had time to make calls !! I must admit a have never driven a RSX !! But this Mazda3 is the best riding and best driving car I have been in !! Yes the springs are a little stiff !! But, I don't find them a problem !!
I second barry42, the Mazda3s ride much better than the RSX, although I haven't driven the Acura. My neighbor has an TSX and she says it has a choppy ride. I have a 2001 Mazda Protegé LX 2.0L which I thought was bumpy or choppy on some roads. Then I bought new tires last week and the choppy ride is mostly gone. Short wheelbase cars are known for their bumpy ride due to the wheels passing over washboard surfaces almost simultaniously. The Mazda3's suspension design has overcome most of the problem, it's different from all other small cars, an adaptation of the Mazda6's suspension.
When I test drove an MZ3 my main interest was watching for the chop, but never felt it.
You may find the suspension firmer than cars you have been driving, but it's a small tradeoff in the MZ3 for its excellent handling, one which helps most drivers avoid collisions. If you want a limo ride -- buy a limo -- but you will sacrifice handling and ease of manuvering in tight spaces plus higher fuel bills. When you realize what the handling does for you it will be difficult to go to a softer riding car.
There are plenty of cars out there to choose from, although, most do not have the Mazda3 hatch's combination of style, build quality, performance, handling, utility, and fun to drive experience. It's a "shoe" that fits many, but not all who try it on.
Big fan of the Mazda3. Majorly big fan and I'm praying the mazdaspeed version has awd as it stands the best chance of getting my dollar in 2006.
So today I drove a stipped 6mt Audi A3. 25k sticker and it's got the normal bits one expects but no frills...so no xenon, moon, leather, etc.
First thing I notice, the door handles are flip up style. Pet peeve as I hate that type of handle and prefer pull handles like those on my 330i and my prior Jetta sported.
Fabric is decent. Much like the fabric in my old Jetta. Again, not gonna worry about it as I wouldn't buy a car and keep fabric. If the leather matches the A4, awesome.
In the base model the seats operate like a Jetta's so that dumb crank system and the even more idiotic rotary dial are used to change the seat's height and back angle. I was told the leather seats are power. They better be. Why VA/Audi can't make normal manual seats is a mystery for the ages.
interior materials felt pretty much like a last gen jetta. not bad considering that car still has a better interior than most cars. Compared to the MZ3, the A3's got the interior feel perfect. But the layout has problems. Mainly the footwell is narrow and the center console is really wide. Even sitting still I noticed it was near impossible to put my small size 10 shoe to the floorboard. Additionally, my right knee was always pressed against the console. Argh. Mazda3 is simply more comfortable to drive.
Rearward visibility = horrid. The back window is tiny and the design seems to funnel toward the back. mirrors on the outside are of a decent size so they help a bit with lane changes. Still I thought visibility in my BMW was awful, but the A3 is much worse - another case of design over function. Mazda3 is leaps better in this regard.
I pulled out of the lot and onto a road. Couple things sprang to mind. Oh, Germans know how to dampen a suspension just right. You feel the road but it's not jarring. Very sublime. Quiet too and the 2.0 FSI is pulling nicely even at 2k rpm. And finally, where is second? Argh, that small footwell space makes it impossible to press the clutch to the floor and this car won't find a gear unless that pedal is smashed to the floor.
Underway and accelerating more tidbits came to me. The shifter mechanism is far better than the models I've tried from Audi/VW in the past. But the clutch is becoming a nightmare. And my knee is always banging against the center console! But feel that 2.0. Oh it's like buttery heaven. It just pulls without a hint of any peakiness - I miss this feel compared to the horrid engine response in BMW's peaky inline 6s.
On the freeway the small rearward visibility is grating on my nerves. I'm in a bright red car doing 90 and I can't see half the cars behind me through that periscope like back window! Plus this car is arrest me red! Lane changes are based more on, "just passed that guy", glance, it appears he's not there, try mirrors, cross fingers, change lanes. I didn't hit anyone but man I felt like it might happen.
At 85 mph in 6th gear the car turns over 3k rpm. Nice. Audi/VW finally realized cruising gears are a good thing. Even at 90 I depressed the gas and the car swiftly accelerated. Can't do that in my 330i - drop to 4th for that maneuver.
The car's quiet too. We're at 85+, no radio, dual zone climate is working and the car is quiet (for me). too quiet. I prefer more hustle and bustle but at least it's not loud.
Handling was hard to judge for two reasons. 1 the clutch was such a pain that I couldn't do too much in the way of spirited stuff and keep the car in the proper gear. 2 the 10 mile route just didn't offer much in the way of switchbacks and turns.. The car felt planted and very much like my old Jetta. A tad more nimble but this was a base model, so I'm hoping the lowered, more aggressive sport package with 18s will make the car feel more alive. Also this was FWD (not a fave of mine).
Room in front was decent. Room in back was tight and the back seat on the base model felt like it could be cardboard covered with fabric. Yuck! Are leather models better? Not sure.
Pros: nice ride, superb engine. Cons: no rearward visibility, bad back seats, horrible footwell, large center console intrudes on knee space.
I will have to try a leather, DSG equipped 2.0 - maybe quattro too. At this point the Mazda3 2.3 is more fun due to the better seating, visibility and great shifter/clutch setup. But the Audi certainly felt more upscale and buttoned down. Almost like what it is, an entry level luxury sport wagon. Put that 2.0 in the Mazda and it'd be a match in heaven!
This is the FIRST time I've seen an Audi of any sort called a competitor to the Mazda3. Come on ... the Mazda3's competition is of the Civic/Corolla/Elantra/possibly Jetta level. I (and most) would place Audi alongside the likes of Saabs, Volvos and BMWs. And this is not downgrading the car; hell, I bought a 3s wagon three weeks ago.
A fully loaded Mazda3 can approach stripped Audi A3 levels.
I'm considering both of them too. Looking for a hatchback $15k-$25k (well ok, the A3 doesn't quite make it, but it's close enough to still look at). If there were more hatchbacks, I would've narrowed down the range some more, but there aren't.
I think the comparison happens because the A3 is a four-door hatch, just like the Mazda3S hatch...
If I'm going to pay $25K for a stripped A3 (and it is stripped), then I'd surely consider the $21K M3S that is completely loaded and has similar performance..
I also think that the M3S is a step up from the Civics and Corollas... closer to the Jetta.. That may change when the next product cycle, but that is where I see it right now..
Since when is a stripped Audi A3 "a competitor" with a Mazda3?
To me they're competitors as they're the only decent, solid handling 5 door hatches available. Same design type, same target, iMHO. The A3 aims a bit higher but really I can see the same people (like me for instance) looking at them.
A stripped Audi A3 is $25K, like you said. A stripped Mazda3 is nearly half that price. And you can't even find a Mazda3 with a $25K sticker.
Price isn't the issue for me. A Mazda3 MPS will probably sticker for around 27k. A loaded A3 will be about 33k. That's close enough for me. 6k...not the big of a deal in the scheme of happiness.
For those of us that own M3's -- I think you will agree there is nothing like a Mazda3 at any price -- I just bought my second one last week !! Now we will have the HB for me and the Sedan for my wife !!
Come on ... the Mazda3's competition is of the Civic/Corolla/Elantra/possibly Jetta level.
I wouldn't consider a civic/corolla/sentra as comp to the MZ3. The MZ3 is on a wholly different level. It's handling, design, build quality, features seem to me to be above and beyond those cars. Only the Jetta, is at the same level.
I helped a friend buy a Mazda 3. Other cars she seriously considered: Accord Coupe V6 MT6, TSX MT6, Mazda6 MT5... well that's it as she tested the toyota offerings (Matrix, Corolla) and found them junky. Lexus doesn't make anything fun. She's anti-bmw. The crowd narrows a lot after that.
I (and most) would place Audi alongside the likes of Saabs, Volvos and BMWs. And this is not downgrading the car; hell, I bought a 3s wagon three weeks ago.
I wouldn't consider an A3 - a car designed to gather younger buyers - on the same level as a BMW. Saabs and Volvos just don't exist in my world. worthless cars.
My experience with Mazda started eight years before that, however, with a 1992 Protege LX back in September 1991. I had another 1992 Protege before I traded it for a Mazda pickup in 1994. I got back into Proteges in 2000 and haven't looked back!
BTW, I've found a young couple down the street who shares our passion: He owns a 2001 (I think) Mazdaspeed Protege and she has a 2004 Mazda3 sedan. Now, if they could just get that other car (a Neon) out of their driveway ...
I wouldn't consider a civic/corolla/sentra as comp to the MZ3. The MZ3 is on a wholly different level.
Well, what I meant was competition as the industry sees it. Given my personal love of and loyalty to Mazda's compact cars over the past 14 years, I would (and frequently do) put the Mazda3 up against much more expensive cars. On the industry level, however, the Mazda3 is a compact economy car that appeals to college graduates and other young people.
Too bad zoom-zoom emotions don't factor into the harsh reality!
I'm a post grad and the MZ3 is on my radar. My friend's got her JD and she went with the MZ3.
In my view Mazda hit it out of the park with the MZ3. They made a car and sales back this up, that appeals to what people want. I think the A3 will experience success too but not on the same levels given the larger price tag. Still both are addressing a very real desire by professionals to get an agile, fun, roomy, semi-luxurious car. We want it all. We want to canyon carve and fit stuff from home depot in the back or drop the 60% backseat and load a dog into the back for a quick roadtrip.
I bought one and I'm 40, married 10 years this fall and a son who'll be 4 next month! (He likes to zoom-zoom from the back seat.)
I feel sorry for you poor fellas who just caught the Mazda bug this year. Back in 1992 there was no "zoom zoom" (at least in the corporate logo department). It was all "Kansei Engineering" and "Get in. Be Moved" back then.
Real world experience: My 19 year old son, decided his '01 Civic was ready to be replaced (various reasons, not applicable to this discussion). He shopped the current Civics, Toyota's Corolla and Matrix (and near twin Vibe) and Ford Focus, along with the MZ3. (all new cars, not used)
Previously in our immediate family, 95 Protege LX, 96 Protege LXs (two), and a 2002 Protege LX. All driven by either his father (me) or his older bro or sis. He never had the opportunity to drive any of the family's Mazdas. When the Civic became available for him to drive at age 16, he became a very big supporter of Hondas.
Advance to April 2005, He test drives the above mentioned vehicles, and decides immediately after driving the MZ3 that it is worlds ahead of the competition, and asks Dad (a known car fanatic) to go for test drives with him and for his advice.
Dad: "WOW!!"
Son now drives (and makes his own monthly payments on) a 2005 MZ3 hatch 5 spd.
Son: "WAY better than any Honda..Hondas just seem really cheaply put together compared to my Mazda3"
I will say this, he DID get crazy money for his traded in Honda. I can hope that the 3 will end the poor resale the performance the Proteges experienced.
A stripped Audi A3 is $25K, like you said. A stripped Mazda3 is nearly half that price. And you can't even find a Mazda3 with a $25K sticker.
The comparo would be a stripped A3 at $25K with a moderately equipped Mazda3 s (2.3) at about $19K. Still the fact that people would even make the comparison with that large of a difference is interesting. I can think of a lot of things I could do with that left-over $6K.
Ah but I won't buy a mazda 2.3 hatch. I will buy a Mazdaspeed3 - the price of which will surely be in the 20s. Under 200 hp (unless it's a miata) = no sale to BGDC.
I had to laugh !! In the may issue of Car & Driver on page 87 there is a review of the new VW Jetta !! At the end of the article there is a group of " Bar Graph " scores comparing the Jetta with The Chevy Cobalt, the Mazda3, And the Subaru Impreza !! For those of you that hadn't seen the article yet --Please let me review !! Under "Current Base Price" the Mazda3 is tied with two others and the Jetta Sits higher by about $4000 !! Under "Acceleration" the Mazda3 is the quickest !! Under "Braking" -- Mazda3 is the shortest distance !! Under "Roadholding" -- Mazda is the best at about 0.88g on a 300ft. skidpad !! Under "EPA City Fuel Economy -- Mazda3 is the best !!
I agree. If it is around 220-240 would be great, as long as it is AWD. I own a 2003 Altima SE with an CAI and Stillen exhaust, it burns Audis and BMW's (330I's) all the time, but the torque steer can be tough. But I like it, its fun.
The noise level in most compact cars is due mainly to the tire treads. If the OEM tires are replaced with better, quieter tires the noise level is lower, but then you will hear more wind noise.
Barry42, I recently got rid of the OEM Bridgestones on my 2001 Protegé LX, they wore out at 22K miles. Bought Kumho ECSTA 711s and now ride quietly and much smoother. Barely hear the tires. Made the Pro feel like a new and better car, though I liked it fine except for those lousy tires.
People ask if Mazdas are reliable, all I can say is I bought a Mazda GLC hatchback in 1981 and drove it five years with no problems. It was a car that seemed to be exactly what I had been looking for and Mazda introduced it at the right time. Twenty years later I bought the 2001 Protegé for the same reason and have had no problems the past four years. In between I owned many cars that spent more time in for repairs than in use, several having to be towed in numerous times.They were built by the big companies: Toyota and BMW to name two.
"Are they reliable"; define reliable for a more definative answer.
1992 Protege LX: 28,000 miles, no problems, totaled in accident 1992 Protege LX: 83,000 miles, no problems 2000 Protege ES: 91,000 miles, replaced front sway bar bushings (covered under extended warranty) at 85,000 miles 2002 Protege5: 49,000 miles (wife's current car), no problems 2005 Mazda3s wagon: 950 miles (my current car, duh), no problems
1986 RX7 125,000 kept breaking door handles at $250 a pop 1988 RX7 Turbo 88,000 fried the tranny 1991 B2000 25,000 great looow truck 2001 Protege forget the miles but ran flawlessly
Bought it in '94 with 76K miles on it.. found out later that it had a cracked transfer case that they had used JBweld to repair.. Around 88K, lost a cylinder.. Figured at least $3K to fix both things, so I traded it in..
I loved the car though... 138 HP intercooled turbo with AWD... it was a hoot..
I love Mazdas.. just never seem to end up with one..
I am thinking of buying an MX3 but I was wondering if it is good in the snow? I live in Pennsylvania but we don't have (normally) alot of snow but we do get some nasty weather. Or would I need to buy snow tires? I also have Dogs, Any one else use this car to take dogs to the vet etc..?
Snow tires. Get snow tires. Definitely get snow tires. This has been a subliminal message from your friendly neighborhood Mazda3 snow tire dealer.
Seriously, the OEM rubber absolutely STINKS in the snow, and the car is a bit light, with a VERY light aluminum engine, and the tires a bit wide. This removes any advantages that might help all-season tires (DECENT ones, not the junk that comes with the car) to become tolerable in the snow. Either buy snow tires or a set of Nokian WRs.
Incidentally, snow tires are expensive to buy for the 17 inch rim, and the selection is minimal. If you have the space to store them (I don't, unfortunately) buy a set of 15 or 16 inch steel wheels to mount snows on. Easier size to buy tires for, and you can just leave them on the rims and stash them in spring. makes it easier to swap them yourself too.
npaladin2000 said: Incidentally, snow tires are expensive to buy for the 17 inch rim, and the selection is minimal. If you have the space to store them (I don't, unfortunately) buy a set of 15 or 16 inch steel wheels to mount snows on. Easier size to buy tires for, and you can just leave them on the rims and stash them in spring. makes it easier to swap them yourself too.
Excellent advice. It applies to most cars (not only the Mazda3) that are in snowy climes. Another major advantage of snows is that they extend the life of "performance" tires (which tend to use softer rubber). If you buy snows check to see if the tire seller will mount them each year free of charge; if not you may be paying a nominal fee ($20-$30) each winter to have them mounted and taken off at the end of the season. Or you can buy a torque wrench and do them yourself like I do. Also, there is no rush, your summer tires will likely work out fine for the first year in the winter, but as the tread wears you may find you need the extra traction and better grip of the beefier snows. Check tire rack, tire trends and other sites for more information. Look for specials, especially packages of wheels and rims. I have had my 185/65/14 BF Goodrich Slaloms for three seasons on my Protege5 (predecessor to the Mazda3) and they are holding up well.
This site has been very interesting - this is a first post. My wife and I are both Honda owners. She has a Civic DX Hatch 92 and I have an Accord EX 95; we each have 150k on our cars and have had no major problems. We have short city commutes to work. I have been trying to convince her to consider the Mazda3 5-door to replace her Civic for a better drive and safety - but she is dubious of the mpg in the city. I have seen a couple of posts stating the mpg was less than expected. - Is <25mpg or worse to be expected ? - Are there other long time Honda owners who have made a Mazda switch and are happy? I just find the idea of another Civic or the Prius/Civic Hybrid a little boring even if the mpg is wonderful. Since our commutes are short the mpg matters a little less. I would bike to work if it werent so hot and dangerous in our city. The Civic DX has been a real workhorse - takes 30 bags of fertilizer with the seats down without trouble! Thanks
Hate to disagree with you there auto, but driving on those Goodyears in the snow, no matter when, will get someone killed. I actually had to drive in a snowstorm that hit the day before my appointment to get my snows put on, and when I got out I fell to my knees (in a snowy parking lot no less!) and thanked whatever gods there are that they allowed me to live through it.
Incidentally, I had a nice little choice when it came to snows. I could buy 4 Contis at STS for $500 and pay for mounting every year, or buy Blizzaks at the Firestone shop for $1000 and get free mounting for life (oh and the Blizzaks were backordered). So i went with the Contis, which turned out pretty good. Blizzaks in our low-profile 17 inch size don't use that special compound that "normal sized" Blizzaks use anyway. Nokian WRs were $800 for a set of 4.
Not if you put on a size of tire that gives you a net circumfrence (sp?) change of zero. Basically, you're putting on a smaller wheel in order to allow you to put on a higher-profile tire...the diameter of the mounted wheel/tire combo should stay the same if your seller/installer has even the slightest clue what he's doing.
Something about transporting dogs: I assume you're refering to the Mazda3, and not to the Mazda MX-3, a small sporty coupe that was briefly in the Mazda line-up during the early 90's. I can only say that Chewy, a 90 lb canine, can jump into the hatch of my Mazda3 5-door and settle in fairly comfortably but without much room to spare (of course you could add another dog or two if you folded the rear seats). Best to install bumper plates if you want to avoid scratches. Also the floor of the hatch is rather slippery, so installing a cargo cover is recommended. Hope this helps. PS I don't know anything about snow tires: the stock tires worked fine in Washington, DC, but we rarely have more than an inch or two of snow on the roads.
" Are there other long time Honda owners who have made a Mazda switch and are happy?"
I bought Hondas for 15 years and then bought an Mazda Protegé in 2001. No regrets! My Hondas were: 1986 Accord LX, 1992 Accord LX, 1994 Civic DX, 1997 Accord LX, 1998 Accord LX, 1998 Odyessy. The 1998 Accord LX was sold back to the dealer in 30 days -- worst seats I have ever sat on -- PAINFUL!
The 2001 Protegé has proven to be reliable, economical, and a lot more fun to drive. Far more rewarding than Civics. Dealer service is cheaper than Honda dealers. Fuel economy has been higher than the EPA estimate. Solid feel with more than adequate room.I have driven the Mazda 3 sedan and found it to be as good and in many respects better.
Lawrence1, rent a Mazda3 for a weekend from Hertz or Enterprise (cheaper) and see what you think.
We still have an 86 Mazda 323. It ran pretty much flawlessly during the first 10 years when there were just two of us and we commuted or drove everywhere. Even drove it from Maine to Cal when it was 12 years old. We don't drive it as much any more though I still use it to commute to work. We now we have had to make the repairs that one is going to have to make on a car this age--struts, new clutch, radiator hoses, cv joints, alternator, etc. Someday soon, it won't be worth fixing and then I'll probably replace it was a 3 hatchback. Still, every day it goes is another day where I don't have to make car payments.
i am about to buy a 2005 mazda 3 hatch, hopefully. this is going to be the first car i finance, in turn, my first new car. and i was wondering if you guys feel that this is a wise choice for first car. i am a student and commute to school, so i am looking for something with alot better gas mileage than my current 1995 ford F150(f-ing gas hog) and i have been reading that some people say that the mileage isnt really what they said it would be.. i was wondering what you thought. also - i was wondering about the leather option, i havent seem any 3s with it in person and wondering if its really nice or what. and does anyone have the rear skirt diffuser thing? the first thing i want to do when i get the car is lower it so i was wondering if this thing with impede...probably not, but i just want to know what people think of this option. i think its looks pretty cool and its only $175 bucks or whatever, so why not, right? might save my undercarriage a little anyway.. thanks - Rob
Comments
Jeremy
If the outside temp is 90F degrees the inside temp will probably be 110F, which means it will take longer to cool the car, so turning on the A/C immediately without first venting the heat will not produce the desired result. Better to open all the windows and drive for a while to blow out the superhot air, THEN turn on the A/C, set to Recirculate, and the fan at highest mark. Let it run for at least 15 minutes while the car is moving before resetting to the regular position. The A/C needs those rpm to pump the cold air. Don't expect it to be very cold for at least 30 minutes and at 90F it may not feel as cold as you would like, but may lower the humidity.
Of course, stepping outside and then getting back in it's going to feel cooler but body temperature quickly adjusts and it's hot, again, and you think the A/C isn't working. This happens all the time in houses. Bill may be one of those people who feels hot and sweaty when others may be comfortable. I'm cold natured, any temp below 78F feels chilly to me and 70F is COLD!
fowler3
So we swapped cars(Stay single) now the Accura is bumpty bump. The roads in Maine are not that good after a rough winter.
So does the Mazda 3 s 5dr. ride as stiff as as the RSX?
Thank you.
Being a marketer I used to drive 60,000 to 70,000 miles a year !! I hardly had time to make calls !! I must admit a have never driven a RSX !! But this Mazda3 is the best riding and best driving car I have been in !! Yes the springs are a little stiff !! But, I don't find them a problem !!
Happy Hunting !! Barry42
When I test drove an MZ3 my main interest was watching for the chop, but never felt it.
You may find the suspension firmer than cars you have been driving, but it's a small tradeoff in the MZ3 for its excellent handling, one which helps most drivers avoid collisions. If you want a limo ride -- buy a limo -- but you will sacrifice handling and ease of manuvering in tight spaces plus higher fuel bills. When you realize what the handling does for you it will be difficult to go to a softer riding car.
There are plenty of cars out there to choose from, although, most do not have the Mazda3 hatch's combination of style, build quality, performance, handling, utility, and fun to drive experience. It's a "shoe" that fits many, but not all who try it on.
fowler3
So today I drove a stipped 6mt Audi A3. 25k sticker and it's got the normal bits one expects but no frills...so no xenon, moon, leather, etc.
First thing I notice, the door handles are flip up style. Pet peeve as I hate that type of handle and prefer pull handles like those on my 330i and my prior Jetta sported.
Fabric is decent. Much like the fabric in my old Jetta. Again, not gonna worry about it as I wouldn't buy a car and keep fabric. If the leather matches the A4, awesome.
In the base model the seats operate like a Jetta's so that dumb crank system and the even more idiotic rotary dial are used to change the seat's height and back angle. I was told the leather seats are power. They better be. Why VA/Audi can't make normal manual seats is a mystery for the ages.
interior materials felt pretty much like a last gen jetta. not bad considering that car still has a better interior than most cars. Compared to the MZ3, the A3's got the interior feel perfect. But the layout has problems. Mainly the footwell is narrow and the center console is really wide. Even sitting still I noticed it was near impossible to put my small size 10 shoe to the floorboard. Additionally, my right knee was always pressed against the console. Argh. Mazda3 is simply more comfortable to drive.
Rearward visibility = horrid. The back window is tiny and the design seems to funnel toward the back. mirrors on the outside are of a decent size so they help a bit with lane changes. Still I thought visibility in my BMW was awful, but the A3 is much worse - another case of design over function. Mazda3 is leaps better in this regard.
I pulled out of the lot and onto a road. Couple things sprang to mind. Oh, Germans know how to dampen a suspension just right. You feel the road but it's not jarring. Very sublime. Quiet too and the 2.0 FSI is pulling nicely even at 2k rpm. And finally, where is second? Argh, that small footwell space makes it impossible to press the clutch to the floor and this car won't find a gear unless that pedal is smashed to the floor.
Underway and accelerating more tidbits came to me. The shifter mechanism is far better than the models I've tried from Audi/VW in the past. But the clutch is becoming a nightmare. And my knee is always banging against the center console! But feel that 2.0. Oh it's like buttery heaven. It just pulls without a hint of any peakiness - I miss this feel compared to the horrid engine response in BMW's peaky inline 6s.
On the freeway the small rearward visibility is grating on my nerves. I'm in a bright red car doing 90 and I can't see half the cars behind me through that periscope like back window! Plus this car is arrest me red! Lane changes are based more on, "just passed that guy", glance, it appears he's not there, try mirrors, cross fingers, change lanes. I didn't hit anyone but man I felt like it might happen.
At 85 mph in 6th gear the car turns over 3k rpm. Nice. Audi/VW finally realized cruising gears are a good thing. Even at 90 I depressed the gas and the car swiftly accelerated. Can't do that in my 330i - drop to 4th for that maneuver.
The car's quiet too. We're at 85+, no radio, dual zone climate is working and the car is quiet (for me). too quiet. I prefer more hustle and bustle but at least it's not loud.
Handling was hard to judge for two reasons. 1 the clutch was such a pain that I couldn't do too much in the way of spirited stuff and keep the car in the proper gear. 2 the 10 mile route just didn't offer much in the way of switchbacks and turns.. The car felt planted and very much like my old Jetta. A tad more nimble but this was a base model, so I'm hoping the lowered, more aggressive sport package with 18s will make the car feel more alive. Also this was FWD (not a fave of mine).
Room in front was decent. Room in back was tight and the back seat on the base model felt like it could be cardboard covered with fabric. Yuck! Are leather models better? Not sure.
Pros: nice ride, superb engine.
Cons: no rearward visibility, bad back seats, horrible footwell, large center console intrudes on knee space.
I will have to try a leather, DSG equipped 2.0 - maybe quattro too. At this point the Mazda3 2.3 is more fun due to the better seating, visibility and great shifter/clutch setup. But the Audi certainly felt more upscale and buttoned down. Almost like what it is, an entry level luxury sport wagon. Put that 2.0 in the Mazda and it'd be a match in heaven!
A stripped Audi A3 is $25K, like you said. A stripped Mazda3 is nearly half that price. And you can't even find a Mazda3 with a $25K sticker.
Next thing we know we'll be comparing stripped RX-8s to the Mazda3 -- you do know you can get an RX-8 for about $26.5K, don't you?
Meade
Meade
I'm considering both of them too. Looking for a hatchback $15k-$25k (well ok, the A3 doesn't quite make it, but it's close enough to still look at). If there were more hatchbacks, I would've narrowed down the range some more, but there aren't.
If I'm going to pay $25K for a stripped A3 (and it is stripped), then I'd surely consider the $21K M3S that is completely loaded and has similar performance..
I also think that the M3S is a step up from the Civics and Corollas... closer to the Jetta.. That may change when the next product cycle, but that is where I see it right now..
regards,
kyfdx
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To me they're competitors as they're the only decent, solid handling 5 door hatches available. Same design type, same target, iMHO. The A3 aims a bit higher but really I can see the same people (like me for instance) looking at them.
A stripped Audi A3 is $25K, like you said. A stripped Mazda3 is nearly half that price. And you can't even find a Mazda3 with a $25K sticker.
Price isn't the issue for me. A Mazda3 MPS will probably sticker for around 27k. A loaded A3 will be about 33k. That's close enough for me. 6k...not the big of a deal in the scheme of happiness.
Happy Trails !! Barry42.
I wouldn't consider a civic/corolla/sentra as comp to the MZ3. The MZ3 is on a wholly different level. It's handling, design, build quality, features seem to me to be above and beyond those cars. Only the Jetta, is at the same level.
I helped a friend buy a Mazda 3. Other cars she seriously considered: Accord Coupe V6 MT6, TSX MT6, Mazda6 MT5... well that's it as she tested the toyota offerings (Matrix, Corolla) and found them junky. Lexus doesn't make anything fun. She's anti-bmw. The crowd narrows a lot after that.
I (and most) would place Audi alongside the likes of Saabs, Volvos and BMWs. And this is not downgrading the car; hell, I bought a 3s wagon three weeks ago.
I wouldn't consider an A3 - a car designed to gather younger buyers - on the same level as a BMW. Saabs and Volvos just don't exist in my world. worthless cars.
2000: Me: Protege ES; wife: Cavalier (don't say it)
2002: Me: Protege ES; wife: Protege5 (finally converted her)
2005: Me: Mazda3s wagon; wife: Protege5
My experience with Mazda started eight years before that, however, with a 1992 Protege LX back in September 1991. I had another 1992 Protege before I traded it for a Mazda pickup in 1994. I got back into Proteges in 2000 and haven't looked back!
BTW, I've found a young couple down the street who shares our passion: He owns a 2001 (I think) Mazdaspeed Protege and she has a 2004 Mazda3 sedan. Now, if they could just get that other car (a Neon) out of their driveway ...
Meade
Well, what I meant was competition as the industry sees it. Given my personal love of and loyalty to Mazda's compact cars over the past 14 years, I would (and frequently do) put the Mazda3 up against much more expensive cars. On the industry level, however, the Mazda3 is a compact economy car that appeals to college graduates and other young people.
Too bad zoom-zoom emotions don't factor into the harsh reality!
Meade
In my view Mazda hit it out of the park with the MZ3. They made a car and sales back this up, that appeals to what people want. I think the A3 will experience success too but not on the same levels given the larger price tag. Still both are addressing a very real desire by professionals to get an agile, fun, roomy, semi-luxurious car. We want it all. We want to canyon carve and fit stuff from home depot in the back or drop the 60% backseat and load a dog into the back for a quick roadtrip.
I feel sorry for you poor fellas who just caught the Mazda bug this year. Back in 1992 there was no "zoom zoom" (at least in the corporate logo department). It was all "Kansei Engineering" and "Get in. Be Moved" back then.
Meade
Previously in our immediate family, 95 Protege LX, 96 Protege LXs (two), and a 2002 Protege LX. All driven by either his father (me) or his older bro or sis. He never had the opportunity to drive any of the family's Mazdas. When the Civic became available for him to drive at age 16, he became a very big supporter of Hondas.
Advance to April 2005, He test drives the above mentioned vehicles, and decides immediately after driving the MZ3 that it is worlds ahead of the competition, and asks Dad (a known car fanatic) to go for test drives with him and for his advice.
Dad: "WOW!!"
Son now drives (and makes his own monthly payments on) a 2005 MZ3 hatch 5 spd.
Son: "WAY better than any Honda..Hondas just seem really cheaply put together compared to my Mazda3"
I will say this, he DID get crazy money for his traded in Honda. I can hope that the 3 will end the poor resale the performance the Proteges experienced.
The comparo would be a stripped A3 at $25K with a moderately equipped Mazda3 s (2.3) at about $19K. Still the fact that people would even make the comparison with that large of a difference is interesting. I can think of a lot of things I could do with that left-over $6K.
In the may issue of Car & Driver on page 87 there is a review of the new VW Jetta !!
At the end of the article there is a group of " Bar Graph " scores comparing the Jetta with The Chevy Cobalt, the Mazda3, And the Subaru Impreza !!
For those of you that hadn't seen the article yet --Please let me review !!
Under "Current Base Price" the Mazda3 is tied with two others and the Jetta Sits higher by about $4000 !!
Under "Acceleration" the Mazda3 is the quickest !!
Under "Braking" -- Mazda3 is the shortest distance !!
Under "Roadholding" -- Mazda is the best at about 0.88g on a 300ft. skidpad !!
Under "EPA City Fuel Economy -- Mazda3 is the best !!
Zoom-Zoom !! Barry42.
Just wondering about the pros and cons of sedan vs hatchback.
I heard HB is noisier in comparison with sedan.
I need your observations and opinions regarding this.
regards
DD
Zoom !! Zoom !! Bary42.
Barry42, I recently got rid of the OEM Bridgestones on my 2001 Protegé LX, they wore out at 22K miles. Bought Kumho ECSTA 711s and now ride quietly and much smoother. Barely hear the tires. Made the Pro feel like a new and better car, though I liked it fine except for those lousy tires.
fowleer3
"Are they reliable"; define reliable for a more definative answer.
fowler3
1992 Protege LX: 28,000 miles, no problems, totaled in accident
1992 Protege LX: 83,000 miles, no problems
2000 Protege ES: 91,000 miles, replaced front sway bar bushings (covered under extended warranty) at 85,000 miles
2002 Protege5: 49,000 miles (wife's current car), no problems
2005 Mazda3s wagon: 950 miles (my current car, duh), no problems
Meade
1988 RX7 Turbo 88,000 fried the tranny
1991 B2000 25,000 great looow truck
2001 Protege forget the miles but ran flawlessly
Bought it in '94 with 76K miles on it.. found out later that it had a cracked transfer case that they had used JBweld to repair.. Around 88K, lost a cylinder.. Figured at least $3K to fix both things, so I traded it in..
I loved the car though... 138 HP intercooled turbo with AWD... it was a hoot..
I love Mazdas.. just never seem to end up with one..
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I live in Pennsylvania but we don't have (normally) alot of snow but we do get some nasty weather. Or would I need to buy snow tires?
I also have Dogs, Any one else use this car to take dogs to the vet etc..?
Seriously, the OEM rubber absolutely STINKS in the snow, and the car is a bit light, with a VERY light aluminum engine, and the tires a bit wide. This removes any advantages that might help all-season tires (DECENT ones, not the junk that comes with the car) to become tolerable in the snow. Either buy snow tires or a set of Nokian WRs.
Incidentally, snow tires are expensive to buy for the 17 inch rim, and the selection is minimal. If you have the space to store them (I don't, unfortunately) buy a set of 15 or 16 inch steel wheels to mount snows on. Easier size to buy tires for, and you can just leave them on the rims and stash them in spring. makes it easier to swap them yourself too.
Excellent advice. It applies to most cars (not only the Mazda3) that are in snowy climes. Another major advantage of snows is that they extend the life of "performance" tires (which tend to use softer rubber). If you buy snows check to see if the tire seller will mount them each year free of charge; if not you may be paying a nominal fee ($20-$30) each winter to have them mounted and taken off at the end of the season. Or you can buy a torque wrench and do them yourself like I do. Also, there is no rush, your summer tires will likely work out fine for the first year in the winter, but as the tread wears you may find you need the extra traction and better grip of the beefier snows. Check tire rack, tire trends and other sites for more information. Look for specials, especially packages of wheels and rims. I have had my 185/65/14 BF Goodrich Slaloms for three seasons on my Protege5 (predecessor to the Mazda3) and they are holding up well.
My wife and I are both Honda owners. She has a Civic DX Hatch 92 and I have an Accord EX 95; we each have 150k on our cars and have had no major problems. We have short city commutes to work. I have been trying to convince her to consider the Mazda3 5-door to replace her Civic for a better drive and safety - but she is dubious of the mpg in the city. I have seen a couple of posts stating the mpg was less than expected.
- Is <25mpg or worse to be expected ?
- Are there other long time Honda owners who have made a Mazda switch and are happy?
I just find the idea of another Civic or the Prius/Civic Hybrid a little boring even if the mpg is wonderful. Since our commutes are short the mpg matters a little less.
I would bike to work if it werent so hot and dangerous in our city.
The Civic DX has been a real workhorse - takes 30 bags of fertilizer with the seats down without trouble!
Thanks
Incidentally, I had a nice little choice when it came to snows. I could buy 4 Contis at STS for $500 and pay for mounting every year, or buy Blizzaks at the Firestone shop for $1000 and get free mounting for life (oh and the Blizzaks were backordered). So i went with the Contis, which turned out pretty good. Blizzaks in our low-profile 17 inch size don't use that special compound that "normal sized" Blizzaks use anyway. Nokian WRs were $800 for a set of 4.
PS I don't know anything about snow tires: the stock tires worked fine in Washington, DC, but we rarely have more than an inch or two of snow on the roads.
I bought Hondas for 15 years and then bought an Mazda Protegé in 2001. No regrets! My Hondas were: 1986 Accord LX, 1992 Accord LX, 1994 Civic DX, 1997 Accord LX, 1998 Accord LX, 1998 Odyessy. The 1998 Accord LX was sold back to the dealer in 30 days -- worst seats I have ever sat on -- PAINFUL!
The 2001 Protegé has proven to be reliable, economical, and a lot more fun to drive. Far more rewarding than Civics. Dealer service is cheaper than Honda dealers. Fuel economy has been higher than the EPA estimate. Solid feel with more than adequate room.I have driven the Mazda 3 sedan and found it to be as good and in many respects better.
Lawrence1, rent a Mazda3 for a weekend from Hertz or Enterprise (cheaper) and see what you think.
fowler3
We couldn't have asked for a better car.
thanks -
Rob
My friend's mz3 hatch 5 mt (as if people buy automatics...) gets in the high 20s. She's a so-so driver as far as gasing goes.
Good luck! I have a 3s wagon and it doesn't look like it could get much lower!
(Why would you want to lower it anyway? I still don't understand why people buy a new car and immediately screw it up.)
Meade