I thought that the Mazda3 had a special key (chipped)- I know you can't just go to Walmart and get one cut - it will not work in the ignition.
You're right. Jim has a Protege and is unaware that the Mazda3's ignition key does have a chip in it. It's part of the theft immobilizer system; only that key will start the engine -- an aftermarket key will not, nor will hot-wiring the car.
Yesterday, I took the testdrive of Mazda 3 Sport GT. Lots of positives for me. Recently, I had driven a rental Toyota Matrix, thus was able to appreciate the benefits of M3. Wrt negatives, the ride was a little rough, also I have read a lot about weak AC and not-so-ideal autostick, but possibly, I can live with them. I am leaning towards Mazda 3 sport GS, plus auto-stick and AC as this combo is in a suitable price range for me. The sales guy has quoted C$248+tax, that is incl of freight & PDI, optional coverages, rust proofing all etc. Before the testdrive, I had told him that I would be deciding in a couple of weeks so this price is pre-bargain, a price from where we both can start negotiating!
I would appreciate a lot if anybody can share with me their recent buying exp of this car in canadian dealers, prices paid and also driving exp. I am curious to know the gas mileage. As I said earleir, the ride was a bit rough compared to my '95 civic but hopefully, GS with its 16"tires should have a softer ride compared to the GT with 17" tires.
I am leaning towards Mazda 3 sport GS, plus auto-stick and AC as this combo is in a suitable price range for me. The sales guy has quoted C$248+tax, that is incl of freight & PDI, optional coverages, rust proofing all etc.
The quote seems high (see below for detailed cost breakdown). You mention optional coverages, rustproofing all etc. What does this specifically include? Also, why do you mention rustproofing? Are you aware that most dealerships do not provide the service in house but have it done by outside firms? Also, rustproofing is not urgent in June. Personally, I have found Krown the most effective and best value for rustproofing.
From a Mazda dealership in Ottawa Mazda3 Sport GS = C$20,285 Automatic = C$1000 A/C = C$1000 Freight + PDI = C$925 Metalic paint = C$105 Gas tax (75) + air tax (100) = C$175 Admin (usually negotiable) = C$270 Krown annual rustproofing = C$110
You may want to remind your salesperson that in approximately three months the 2006 line of Mazda3 will be arriving; that may help him/her give you a good deal on the 2005.
As per your first question, I bought a 2005 M3 GT Leather AT w/GFX pkg in Ontario last February and I requested to remove the 17" are replace it with the 16" while keeping all the other options. The dealer did it for me. They swap it from another car they had in the lot.
I am considering the GT w/GFX but am a little concerned with the 17" wheels - ride, snow, replacement cost. Why did you make the change and has it been worthwhile? BTW I have never had a sunroof - any problems with it?
I have approached one Mazda dealer sofar and the salesman was reluctant to give the details of pricings unless I am ready to sign. He kept on telling that he would beat anybody else but thats when I am serious ( meaning I should go to him with my cheque and then he will disclose whatever discounts he would give!) Obviously, I am not very impressed, so in the weekend would check some other Mazda dealer.
Any idea about the end-of-the-lease price for Mazda 3 Sport GS? As per Mazda website, it is $11537.50 for a 48 month lease. If I am right, this has to be the same for the above period of the lease, no matter from which dealer I buy. Any insight will be appreciated.
Any idea about the end-of-the-lease price for Mazda 3 Sport GS? As per Mazda website, it is $11537.50 for a 48 month lease. If I am right, this has to be the same for the above period of the lease, no matter from which dealer I buy.
My understanding of leases is limited but it seems to depend on the cost of the vehicle. In other words, first one has to decide what is the price of the car. Then one decides on lease payments and residual value. So what do you assume the price of the car is? The price on the website is based on the MSRP. Many people first look at the dealer's offer (MSRP or close to it) and then negotiate by asking for a discount. Once you have the "right" price, you can talk about the lease payment and the residual value.
Maybe there are others out there who can help with this lease question. It may also be useful to go to the Lease forum of the Edmunds site. Consumer Reports has an excellent description of leasing and financing cars.
Two reasons I never lease: a) I always keep my cars for many years and b) in the long term it's cheaper for me to finance rather than lease.
Hey guys i work at a mazda dealership and would be happy to answer any questions ,,, the mazda 3 being made in japan has quality beyond all competition . This is why dealers may not be able to come down in price very much ,,,, basically you get what you pay for and the mazda 3 is top notch ,,, 2.0 liter 148 hp and gt models at 2.3 liter 160 hp .... not to mention better fuel economy than the competition. If you love the mazda 3 and are flip floppin between 2 different cars (toyota, nissan , honda) check out the matinance needs and the costs ,, figure that into the cost of your car ... The Mazda 3 does not have a timing belt, a very costly matinance need at 96,000km .. the Mazda 3 has a timing chain which is good for the life of the vehicle ... just one of the many options on this great new vehicle ,,,, so before you see your dealer understand they do not have alot of discount room to work with as this car is already priced at your needs ,,, Your Truly Edmund The Mazda dealer and questions or emails will be answered daily .
April 2005 sales in Canada total 91,395 cars; top ten are: 1. Mazda3, 2. Honda Civic, 3. Toyota Corolla, 4. Pontiac Grand Am, 5. Toyota Echo, 6. Honda Accord, 7. Pontiac Sunfire, 8. Toyota Matrix, 9. Ford Focus, 10. Chevrolet Impala.
Year-to-date sales in Canada total 257,698 cars; top ten are: 1. Honda Civic, 2. Mazda3, 3. Toyota Corolla, 4. Toyota Echo, 5. Pontiac Grand Am, 6. Pontiac Sunfire, 7. Honda Accord, 8. Ford Focus, 9. Toyota Matrix, 10. Toyota Camry.
Extracted from Canadian Driver; Figures provided by industry analyst Dennis DesRosiers
and Man I love it! I've been looking at getting the Mazda 3 GS for the last 8 months, never even considered the GT...and then the gf and I bought our first house so never got a chance to buy the car...now I finally took the Mazda 3 GT for a test drive..what a sweet ride.. .so now we're thinking of leasing the GT with the GFX package, comes to sub ~300 which is just about right for our budget...I went to Sundridge Mazda in Calgary, and the sales guy was pretty determined not to drop the price at all. I'll get the grad rebate and what not, but he just wouldn't budge on a price...ended up with the numbers straight off the mazda site. Any suggestions on what I can do to drive the price down a little bit or is it pretty common to pay what the website says?? Anyway, I hope to join the ranks of Mazda 3 owners in the very near future!
Yes! Finally I did it! In the weekend, I signed on the 48 month lease of Mazda 3 GS Sport, Auto with AC. I am expecting the delivery in a week and I just cant wait!!
The Mazda dealership is in Orangeville, ONT. The salesguy Ed was very nice, a total professional and the entire experience although nerve-wracking, went on smoothly. This is my first leasing and hopefully the first of many more!
My prices are as follows:
MSRP with AC + Auto - $22,285.00 Freight - $1,195.00 Metallic Paint - $105.00 Options - $455.00 Discount - $1175.00
Total - $22,915.00
Lease payment - $295.94 with $175.00 down With tax - $340.33 ( All prices Canadian)
Additionally, I will get the windows-engraving, wheel nuts, full tank of gas and zero safety deposit or processing fees.
My first payment is $800.00, and this includes first lease payment, $175 down, $175 as AC & Gas tax + tax)
To me, it looked good and so went ahead and signed it.
Most importantly, my sales experience was very good thanks to Ed and I would definitely recommend Cumming Mazda, Orangeville, ON for anybody who is interested in Mazdas.
Sounds good; nice discount. You mention options, was that the engraving and wheelnuts or something else?
At the end of the 48 month lease what is the residual value of the car (money that you would have to pay to buy it outright)? " - autonomous
Thanks Autonomous. My lease on the car is for 4 yrs & Mazda bumper-to-bumper warranty is for 3 years / 80k kms. I extended it to 4 yrs / 100k kms by purchasing additional warranty ( MAP - in Mazdaspeak) and the charge for this was $455.00. This also gives me option to buy additional factory warranty further upto 8 yrs / 160k kms at the end of the lease, if I want to keep the car.
I forgot to mention the freebies that I could manage to get out of the salesman during the haggling:
1) Windows engraving 2) Wheel nuts 3) Full tank of gas ( I guess this would have come anyway) 4) Touch up paint and pen. 5) Zero security deposit, zero processing or bank fee
Payment on delivery is: $800.00, which includes $175 down, $175 gas + AC tax, $340 first lease payment and taxes.
The residual value of the car is $11,385.50.
So, if I buy the car at the end of the lease, my total payment would be:
Lease payments for 48 months - $16334.01 Residual value + tax - $13093.32 Total - $29424.36
Compare this to $26352.25, total due if I were buying the car with cash down. So, if I am right, $3072.11 is the difference between leasing the car for 4 yrs and then buying compared to buying with total cash down.
I am happy with the deal and now impatient to get my hands on the car. I am getting delivery on Jun 17th. I am going to take the car straight for window tinting.
Can anybody tell me the initial kms to be put on before we can go at highway speed? Is it 1000 kms? Any other precautions to be taken on the delivery day? Any last minute checks to be done? Thanks in advance.
impatient to get my hands on the car. I am getting delivery on Jun 17th. ... Can anybody tell me the initial kms to be put on before we can go at highway speed? Is it 1000 kms? Any other precautions to be taken on the delivery day? Any last minute checks to be done?
You sound like your revved up for a great summer!
You can ask your salesman, but my understanding is that there is no limit on the speed; actually what you want to avoid is staying in a constant speed and rather "flex" the car a bit. Personally, I would not go over 120kmh the first day but I don't think after a couple of weeks you'll do it any harm exploring higher numbers. So go slow, go fast, be happy! As for precautions on delivery, use your usual common sense ... check that the car comes with all the promised features, and have the salesman show you everything. I created a little checklist to remind myself of all the details listed on the salesbrochure. I was also eagle-eyed when it came to scratches or defects, better to spot them early and get them written up. Don't forget the license plate and check all the paperwork twice.
I would think an Mazda 3 with dual exhaust would look too ricer.
If it were a 200 hp-plus vehicle, i would say yeah maybe. certain cars with bigger engines, and free-er flowing exhausts...it could help to increase performance.
back in the day, i remember seeing the older (upto 92) 4-cyl Mustangs with 2 pipes..and on cold days, you'd see smoke from only 1 pipe.
total posers.
and by the way...maybe i'd agree with you, if the Sens EVER beat the Leafs in a playoff round.
Today I took the delivery of the Mazda 3 Sport GS - Titanium Grey, Mettalic!
The Salesman was very prompt. Our time for delivery was 9 am and the car was ready for us when we reached the lot. And promises were kept in terms of window engraving, wheel nuts, full tank of gas and touch up paint/brush, all free of charge. Paper work was dispensed in 5 mts, a brief reminder about the controls and basics of maintenance was done in about 10 mts, my licence plate was put up in a minute and off we went! Totally it was a pleasant experience!
Now to ensure that the first 1000 kms are done away asap but nicely and smoothly without over-revving the engine!
Initial feelings from the drive to the home: - handling of the car is exemplary, sterio is much better than expected, AC was not bad but the ride is much rough compared to my '95 Honda Civic, you get to know the road very intimately, every bump, every modulations, everything actually. Its mainly the noise from the tires.. I guess... Is it because of the brand of the tires? Bridgetones? or is it because the tires come with alloy wheels and 205 profile? Any expert advice will be appreciated.
I have been looking around the Mazda 3 for a while, I went to a dealer today and the manager gave me the following quote, I just want to know if is a good quote :
- 2005 Mazda 3 GT with Auto and GFX package: $23540.00 - Freight/PDI: $1195.00 - Metallic Paint + Extra Warranty: $560.00 - Air Tax, Fuel Tax etc... : $175.00 - Discount: $1955.00
For a four year (48months) finance at 2.9% with 0 down, the monthly payment comes to $596.00. The cost of borrowing is about $16xx.xx (can't exactly remember the number) for the 48 months period.
Does anyone think this is a good deal or do you think I can get a better deal elsewhere?
ride is much rough compared to my '95 Honda Civic, you get to know the road very intimately ... Is it the because of the brand of the tires ... or is it because the tires come with alloy wheels and 205 profile?
You're right, it's due to the tires but also the "sporty" suspension. The brand of tires is not as important as its profile. A 205/55/16 is a lower profile tire which gives a more precise drive; unfortunately it also reveals imperfections in the road. I think you'll find that on highways these tires will add to your driving pleasure; in the city, especially after the winter thaw you'll find yourself muttering about the poor road maintenance and where have all your taxes gone.
The Mazda3 GT has an even more dramatic feel with its 205/50/17 set-up. Your 95 Honda was likely on 15 inch tires; lots of Civic owners modified their wheels as soon as they bought their cars; think of your Mazda3 as an already customized car.
p.s. For a truly jaw-jarring experience try a trip through the old part (18th century) of Montreal with its cobblestoned roads.
- 2005 Mazda 3 GT with Auto and GFX package: $23540.00 - Freight/PDI: $1195.00 - Metallic Paint + Extra Warranty: $560.00 - Air Tax, Fuel Tax etc... : $175.00 - Discount: $1955.00
Nice discount but the initial price took me aback. Did you forget to include A/C as part of the quotation when you posted it here? The GT hatchback appears to offer you more at a lower price. Have you tried the Build your car feature in www.mazda.ca? It's an easy way of comparing models and preparing yourself before talking with a salesperson. Tip: Do not feel pressured to purchase the car immediately; there are lots of great opportunities out there.
Mazda3 is the latest version of the proven Protege / 323 heritage of vehicles; it's probably the most reliable car that Mazda has built. On top of that, the Mazda3 is built in Japan which is synonymous with highest quality. The added warranty may reassure you but paying extra on top of the 3 year standard warranty may not be the wisest investment.
Thanks for your answer on tires. wrt driving on Montreal's roads of old town, herein Toronto, we have the long Steeles Ave, that would match up any cobblestoned roads with its own potholes and what-not
Arsenalgunners, As a 2-days old owner of Mazda 3 Sport GS, my advice would be to visit as many different dealers as possible in search of the best price, also, I would again agree with Autonomous to check out the hatchback. More versatility, more features and a good price.
But, I chose to extend the warranty to 48 months by paying $455 extra. This was because, i)Mazda bumper to bumper warranty is there for me for my entire lease term ii) Road-side assistance is also extended to 48 months from 36 months, with unlimited kms iii) At the end of the lease, if I am keeping the car, I have the option of buying additional warranty upto 8 yrs of 160k km
Toronto, we have the long Steeles Ave, that would match up any cobblestoned roads with its own potholes and what-not
Remind me, are there still streetcar tracks on some busy city roads? I have find that telling about different cities: how they want to hold on to their past, some knock down a historical building but preserve its facade, others rip through a neighbourhood to put in a superhighway but keep signs about the past, others preserve the past in a little ghetto-like area which becomes a tourist haunt, the growth of suburbs as the new city expands while the older part of the inner city becomes a ghost town after business hours, etc. The price of progress, I suppose.
Not a 3 owner, but I recently replaced the Bridgestone Portenza 195/55/15VRs on my 2001 Protegé with Kumho Ecsta 711 205/50/15HRs and the ride quality went way up along with almost silent tire noise. They are definately smoother over rough pavement and road patches. The Mazda3's suspension is much better than the Protegé's by far. But both do have stiffer dampers than Civics. But keep in mind that the Kumho Ecsta 711 HRs are touring tires, not all season radials.
Hi Fowler, Any of the recent tornadoes/hurricanes pass through NC? I think you said the Kumhoes handle the wet well.
I wonder what makes for a quieter tire, is it primarily the rubber compound or something else? I would think that a H tire may be made of a different compound than a V tire. Kumhoes "sound' like great tires.
Speaking of tires, wasn't the Michelin pull-out this weekend at the Indianopolis F1 amazing!
I am thinking about financing new Mazda 3 Sport GT, leather, etc. and already talked to dealer, got quote for $29,xxx (CAD). I am not sure how to ask for freebies or discounts. Are the discounts only for leased cars?
This is my first car ever and I am so new and fresh that I am worried that I might NOT get any discount/freebies. I was thinking about tinting the rear & back windows. I know it could be done in the dealership.
Also, what accessories should I get? I was advised to get moonroof wind deflector to lower / eliminate the wind noise. Any other suggestions?
I just picked up my 3 sport GT leather tonight. It seems here in Quebec its hard to get a good deal on the fully loaded model in manual tranny (I was quoted as much as 800 over list) because there are few left (many automatics) I wanted Indigo Ink and it took 7 days for my dealer to track one down. White, red and orange were flat out gone. I'm happy with the discount I was given (~1000)but it's not nearly what I've been reading from others. The GS and 4 doors are getting much bigger discounts because they are plenty of them. I was given a free moonroof deflector to compensate for a small scratch near a door handle (looks like someone with a ring tried opening the door, I'll buff it out) but I find the roof not that noisy and the deflector covers alot of the open space. My wife's Matrix is 2 weeks old...what a different car!
Congrats on your new Mazda 3. I got my papers signed yesterday and I am getting red one, with leather, and stick. I got no discounts other than graduate award ($500). Decided to get moonroof wind deflector. Few people recommended it. I am wondering now if I really need it!? Hm... if some one could advice me on that it would be greatly appreciated.
Well Mike, mine was free as I said, so I wasn't going to say no. I'd get the car, drive and decide for yourself if the noise outweighs the fact that the deflector stops any air from actually coming into the car and you see it when you look up. That being said, if you are bald it will diffuse some rays
My dealer had 2 red gt automats in stock, no-one would trade out for a manual so if you can get one, grab it! (That's why some are selling over retail price, they know we want 'em!)
zoom zoom (sorry in quebec it's actually vroum vroum! )
I am thinking about financing new Mazda 3 Sport GT, leather, etc. and already talked to dealer, got quote for $29,xxx (CAD). I am not sure how to ask for freebies or discounts. Are the discounts only for leased cars?
I'm happy with the discount I was given (~1000) but it's not nearly what I've been reading from others.
I got no discounts other than graduate award ($500). Decided to get moonroof wind deflector. Few people recommended it. I am wondering now if I really need it!?
Of course, everyone would love a discount on everything, to the point, as one poster noted, that a dealer would offer the car for free and then throw in a secret "bonus just for you" while shaking your hand off. :P
It's obvious but let's repeat it: whether purchasing or leasing, always get the car at the best price possible. Most experts recommend starting at the invoice price not the MSRP; it's a little more difficult to find in Canada than in the US. An easy way to estimate Canadian figures is to use the percentage difference of the US model. For example, MSRP= U$22,000; invoice = U$20,000; difference = $2,000 ; percentage difference = $10%; subtract this 10% from the Cdn. MSRP to approximate the Cdn. invoice. This is not an exact correlation because of the different incentive programs (for example, Mazda routinely offers 0% to 2% purchase financing in Canada; this may not be offered in the US).
Consider also the market conditions; in June / July / August last year's models are being move to prepare for next year. Try for a deal on a model that is available, not on a special car that is nowhere to be found; if you're lucky you will get everything equipped the way you want at a lower price because the dealer needs to clear the lot soon. Don't be too rushed in making the deal; let the dealers know there are many choices that you can make and it's only if they work to find you the right car at a good price that you'll deal with them. It's also, worth remembering that a 2005 model is in effect a year old car at this point and has depreciated significantly in value should you try to resell it. Finally, even if you don't make a killer deal you have an excellent vehicle so don't let a couple of hundred dollars spoil the pleasure, chalk it up to experience.
And for all of you out there expecting your new baby: have a great summer! :shades:
A past post on one of the forums keeps running through my head...
Someone posted what will be new for 2006 and this included a 5Speed Automatic for the GT - aaaaargh.... now I don't know what to do ... do I wait till the fall to buy - will the 5Speed Auto even be better? hhhmmmmm
Other men may sympathise - I have to get the Auto because of the wife, but at least I get some control with the Sport Mode, which is a nice compromise...
You know another nice compromise is how the passenger(wife) ... can't see the gauges... that is so sweet... cruising at 140 without her knowing will be like cheating! weeeee
Any thoughts from current ownersof the 2.3L engine with the 4SpeedAuto... should I wait? (by the way I hate all current owners... nothing personal though... heheheheh)
You know another nice compromise is how the passenger(wife) ... can't see the gauges... that is so sweet...
My friend, the Mazda3 is an easy car to speed in. On more than one occasion, with my wife aboard, I have leisurely passed someone hogging the left lane at 65 (I like to go 68-70) ... and glanced down to realize, shockingly, that I'm not going 75 or 80 during my pass, but rather 90 or so!
On these occasions the wife has remained completely oblivious to the velocity I have attained!
No, we haven't had tornadoes yet. Not many storms lately to bring them. It's getting dry as a bone here, clear blue skies every day.
The difference between the H and V tires, the H sidewalls flex more to dampen bumps. And for some reason they look thicker than 205/50/17" tires. The H is a touring summer tire. The Kumho Ecsta 711 has a better rating than the OEM 17s. One thing I noticed when buying the Kumos, the V rated tire tread looked more like snow tires, meaning noisy. The 711 tread pattern looks smooth and it IS.
I don't drive when it snows, just stock up and stay home. Too many NC folks don't know how to drive in even light snow, it's safer to stay home. Also, since North Carolinians think the state is 600 miles (1000km) farther south than it really is, there isn't enough snow removal equipment to clear the roads.
I bought my Mazda 3 hb in January, and I have recently gotten my first dent! It looks like a softball hit the back hatch right next the logo. Although it's not deep(?), and the paint is not damaged, it drives me bonkers just knowing it's there.
Back around message 81, someone had mentioned the Auto Dentist in Ottawa. I was wondering if anyone has actually had their car repaired by them. Should I chance these places, or should I just take my car back to Mazda for repairs?
is 27,830$ reasonable price? I'm hesitating between Toyota Matrix and Mazda 3 Sport....
Just bought Mazda 3 Sport GS 2 weeks ago. You can find the details of my pricing in the earlier messages in this discussion. If you need to know the invoice price of the car, contact carcostcanada.com. Another option is to visit atleast 3 different Mazda dealers and get the best pricing from them to decide on the best deal.
I had also shopped Matrix, Suzuki Aerio, Tucson/Sportage etc. before settling on Mazda 3 sport. For me, Mazda 3 GS Sport offered the most features for the price. I found GT to be little too rough in the ride and pricewise was in the mini-SUV territory.
Just last May, I had driven a rental Matrix for over 2000 kms on a road trip to Montreal and Quebec city. Positives of the car was good alround visibility, super smooth engine, fantastic mileage, separate opening of the hatch glass window, very good back-lighting of the instruments, more interior room and ofcourse the Toyota badge! Major negative was the poor seating ergonomics. No matter how many times I tried, I could never get the ideal seating position - either the steering wheel & instrument cluster was too far or my legs and arms were folded and I was too close to the airbag! Other minuses were Matrix does not offer clutchless manual shifting, poor audio system, low engine power, bland handling and much costlier when you tick all the options . Beware, different options are put together as package A or B forcing you to pay more. And, hope you know that if you opt for all wheel drive Matrix, actually you get a smaller powered engine compared to FWD one!
Could you give feedback on how your Mazda3 compares to your wife's Matrix? My wife is thinking of replacing her corolla by one of those 2 vehicles and your input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, leowin, for posting one of the best reports that I've read to date on this forum. Your balanced report, pointing out substantial differences between the Mazda3 and Matrix, will save others time and effort in their selection.
Well, just came back from a weekend trip with the M3, first tank of gas was 560km on 45.6 litres mixed useage, so I'm happy with that.
My wife's new Matrix now has 1000km on it, it is a Matrix TRD edition, which means it comes with 17-inch 5 star mags (beautiful), skirts, fogs, wing, big TRD exhaust tip, momo-style TRD shifter, TRD trunk emblem,and Panasonic radio. My M3 is a GT with leather, sunroof. Check mazda.ca and toyota.ca for specs.
Here's my pros and cons of the Matrix and M3. Matrix pros: About 5 to 10 real-world miles per gallon better than M3 when driven moderately. Seat position gives you almost an SUV feel (if you like that). Great visibility all around. TRD add-ons make for a cool look. Rear seats fold flat and entire trunk area including seat backs are plastic with slider tracks for tie-downs. Passenger seat folds forward and flat. (This make the Matrix an ideal Home Depot runner) Tailgate window opens separately from tailgate. Tall and spacious. It's a Toyota, after 14 years and 5 corollas, my wife has NEVER been to the dealer. Better paint than Mazda. Great manual shifter feel. Outside temperature display in dash. Great headlight & foglight illumination. Matrix cons: Virtually no power for a car this size. You can't get power window or a sunroof in the TRD version?? That's another "package". Seat position gives you almost an SUV feel (if you don't like that). Some components and surfaces are really cheap, like the trunk area cover is basically a vinyl bag that hooks to the trunk sides. Because the trunk is all plastic, everything not ted down goes flying around (like our groceries). Remote for doors is a $400 option!
Mazda 3 GT pros: Full comprehensive accessory list.(but not as good as in the USA) Beautiful Euro-style interior. Silky-smooth engine with adequate power. Better suspension than Matrix. Deals with 17-inch wheels with less deflection than Matrix. Great trunk space separator. Better exterior build quality than the Matrix. (fit/finish) Rain sensing wipers work well. Auto lighting works well. Good headlight and foglight illumination. Mazda 3 GT cons: Looks faster than it is. (but still WAY faster than Matrix) Scratchable interior surfaces. Cheap, thin paint. Vague shifter.
The 3 was about $3000cdn more than the Matrix TRD, so a better comparison would be the Matrix XR with the B package, this way you are comparing apples to apples (sunroof, electric everything, remote entry, but still no leather) And then they are the same price. One is a sporty little euro-style-compact the other is possibly the most practical, economical, reliable car on the market. Aside from having slightly similar shapes, they have NOTHING in common. My wife loves the seating position in the Matrix while I find it bizarre, I love the low seat position in the 3, with my wife cranks the height all the way up.
Apples and oranges, but I see advantages that would make me happy with either one.
I agree that the comparison cannot be exact because of the differences in the options that get packaged with each model. I think if we removed the leather and moonroof options the price difference would be much less.
Your comment about practical, economical, reliable is dead on. I find it interesting that Toyota does not advertise the Matrix; isn't it because we automatically assume since it's a Toyota it must be practical, economical, reliable? On the other side, I think we would both agree that the Mazda3 is a perfect representative of its brand message of zoom zoom.
Thankx for the advice, and for the complete report and pricing (few weeks ago posted message). Looking forward to get my M3 Sport GT, I will be signing this week.
Thanks for the thorough report. It hit on the points I was thinking of when comparing those 2 cars, which will certainly help me make a better informed decision.
The 1010tires site is packed with information. TireTrends and Tire Rack are other possibilities. It's a good idea to shop around for tires; I bought my BF Goodrich Traction T/A 205/50/16 V rated tires for substantially cheaper because Canadian Tire had a promotion earlier this month. Remember to factor in delivery, installation, balancing (approx. C$10 per tire), alignment (approx. C$70 for four tires) and disposal charges.
What's cheap or thin about it? The paint on the hood of my 2005 Mazda3 is holding up MUCH better than the paint on the hood of my 2000 ProtegeES, despite my best high-speed tailgating efforts on my 20-mile highway commute every morning. Not one ping yet!
I have learned a lot just by reading your posts here, and well I decided to post mine...here goes
Okay I think I may have convinced my dad to trade in our 1998 Toyota RAV4 4WD 4DR (which im driving up in ottawa) and to get another Mazda 3.
Earlier last year my brother got a Mazda 3 GT GFX w/leather. Although leather is nice, I sweat like there is no tomorrow...and well on a hot stinking day thats the last thing i want to feel, is leahter toasting my rump!
Okay so yeah I have decided to get the following:
Mazda 3 GT (cloth) GFX 4spAT AC, in Winning Blue Mica I have also though about adding the following:
Aluminum Fuel-Filler Door, Satin Cargo Mat Decorative Trim, Instrument Panel Door Switch Panels Leather-Accented Gear Shift Knob Leather-Accented Parking-Brake Handle Lower Door Mouldings
(Based on Quebec Price online: 25 119.04 before, 30 267.72, of course it will hopefully be less (i think) and as well maybe a tradein credit added on there...purchase will be done at Mazda Gabriel, where my parents got our frist M3 from, and where we got my aunts 323 (or is 232, anyways it was a midget car)
So yeah I wish Mazda Canada's website had pictures of all their accessories
I know what the Aluminum fuel door looks like, and the cargo mat..but the rest I am somewhat lost with it
I liked my brothers car because the steering wheel is leather wrapped (feels very nice) and the shifter had a leather finish. I also read in teh specifications that with or without leather, the steering wheel is already wrapped...but when i click on the accessories brochure it will show the steering wheel with two leather tones instead of one black leather tone
So yeah what do the Dectorative trim., switch panels, gear shift, brake handle and steering wheel look like with the sport black/blue fabric..My goal is that the shifter, brake handle, and steering wheel be a solid black leather, and hopefully not two tone, or if two toned, have black as one of the tones.
Also I read on an oem accessories websit that with sill extensions, lower door moldings make the car look ultra sweet. The pictures they provided were the exact same for both, and over at howardforums when I asked the question no one knew LOL. So yeah what is the difference and what does each look like
Again guys really appreciate this
PS. Oh yeah thanks for the comparison with the Toyota Matrix...one thing I know that in comparison to the matirx i heard that the 3 is ultra quiet...and well thats a reason why i am choosing the 3
I forgot to mention that bit about the M3 being quieter....
The Matrix and M3 at highway speed are about the same as far as interior noise is concerned (unless the sunroof is open). But at any time that you make a request for some horsepower from the engine, the M3 seems to "just do it" and deliver what it's got, where the Matrix has a KitchenAid blender under the hood that kicks in to remind you it's an economy car. I will give that the Matrix at a casual pace is quieter than I expected since my wife's last Toyota (2003 Corolla) was quite a bit noisier than her 1999 Corolla.
Madza rules, wahoo!
Also a plug to Chambly Mazda (Quebec) who gave me a fair trade in value ($2700 more than GM would!) a good deal on price, and really good care every step of the way. (Had to find me an indigo ink Sport GT Manual with leather) If I'm not allowed to plug the dealer, I'm sorry.
Reading around, you people really know your stuff. So I thought I would detail what I was considering, and hope you can provide comments,
Mazda 3 GS Automatic Power Package (mainly for cruise control) MP3 Player (can i get this on GS?) Body Colour Rear Spoiler Sunset Orange Mica, or Indigo Blue Mica (not on site??, available on GS?)
Total purchase price after taxes, etc= $23, 436.83 (as per website)
Any recommendations/suggestions/answers to my questions would be appreciated.
I would not get the aluminum (fake chrome) fuel filler door. If it develops a crack the whole fake chrome peals right off leaving black plastic. It's thinner than aluminum foil wrap. You know the gold leaf sheets sign makers use on office doors? It's about that thin. Saw one on a Miata that was in bad shape.
Comments
You're right. Jim has a Protege and is unaware that the Mazda3's ignition key does have a chip in it. It's part of the theft immobilizer system; only that key will start the engine -- an aftermarket key will not, nor will hot-wiring the car.
Meade
Yesterday, I took the testdrive of Mazda 3 Sport GT. Lots of positives for me. Recently, I had driven a rental Toyota Matrix, thus was able to appreciate the benefits of M3. Wrt negatives, the ride was a little rough, also I have read a lot about weak AC and not-so-ideal autostick, but possibly, I can live with them. I am leaning towards Mazda 3 sport GS, plus auto-stick and AC as this combo is in a suitable price range for me. The sales guy has quoted C$248+tax, that is incl of freight & PDI, optional coverages, rust proofing all etc. Before the testdrive, I had told him that I would be deciding in a couple of weeks so this price is pre-bargain, a price from where we both can start negotiating!
I would appreciate a lot if anybody can share with me their recent buying exp of this car in canadian dealers, prices paid and also driving exp. I am curious to know the gas mileage. As I said earleir, the ride was a bit rough compared to my '95 civic but hopefully, GS with its 16"tires should have a softer ride compared to the GT with 17" tires.
Thanks in advance.
The quote seems high (see below for detailed cost breakdown). You mention optional coverages, rustproofing all etc. What does this specifically include? Also, why do you mention rustproofing? Are you aware that most dealerships do not provide the service in house but have it done by outside firms? Also, rustproofing is not urgent in June. Personally, I have found Krown the most effective and best value for rustproofing.
From a Mazda dealership in Ottawa
Mazda3 Sport GS = C$20,285
Automatic = C$1000
A/C = C$1000
Freight + PDI = C$925
Metalic paint = C$105
Gas tax (75) + air tax (100) = C$175
Admin (usually negotiable) = C$270
Krown annual rustproofing = C$110
You may want to remind your salesperson that in approximately three months the 2006 line of Mazda3 will be arriving; that may help him/her give you a good deal on the 2005.
Best of luck
Thanks so much for your mail with the pricing.
I have approached one Mazda dealer sofar and the salesman was reluctant to give the details of pricings unless I am ready to sign. He kept on telling that he would beat anybody else but thats when I am serious ( meaning I should go to him with my cheque and then he will disclose whatever discounts he would give!) Obviously, I am not very impressed, so in the weekend would check some other Mazda dealer.
Any idea about the end-of-the-lease price for Mazda 3 Sport GS? As per Mazda website, it is $11537.50 for a 48 month lease. If I am right, this has to be the same for the above period of the lease, no matter from which dealer I buy. Any insight will be appreciated.
Thanks.
My understanding of leases is limited but it seems to depend on the cost of the vehicle. In other words, first one has to decide what is the price of the car. Then one decides on lease payments and residual value. So what do you assume the price of the car is? The price on the website is based on the MSRP. Many people first look at the dealer's offer (MSRP or close to it) and then negotiate by asking for a discount. Once you have the "right" price, you can talk about the lease payment and the residual value.
Maybe there are others out there who can help with this lease question. It may also be useful to go to the Lease forum of the Edmunds site. Consumer Reports has an excellent description of leasing and financing cars.
Two reasons I never lease: a) I always keep my cars for many years and b) in the long term it's cheaper for me to finance rather than lease.
Cheers!
In any car does this increase perfomance or is it simply of aesthetic value?
By the way the Senators are better than the Leafs.
- What do you think of the TMV pricing for the Mazda 3?
- What rate does your dealership sell M3 automatics compared to manuals?
Mazdaspeed 3
- When is the Mazdaspeed 3 coming?
- What do you expect it to be priced compared to a Mazda 3 SP23?
total 91,395 cars; top ten are:
1. Mazda3, 2. Honda Civic, 3. Toyota Corolla, 4. Pontiac Grand Am, 5. Toyota Echo, 6. Honda Accord, 7. Pontiac Sunfire, 8. Toyota Matrix, 9. Ford Focus, 10. Chevrolet Impala.
Year-to-date sales in Canada
total 257,698 cars; top ten are:
1. Honda Civic, 2. Mazda3, 3. Toyota Corolla, 4. Toyota Echo, 5. Pontiac Grand Am, 6. Pontiac Sunfire, 7. Honda Accord, 8. Ford Focus, 9. Toyota Matrix, 10. Toyota Camry.
Extracted from Canadian Driver; Figures provided by industry analyst Dennis DesRosiers
The Mazda dealership is in Orangeville, ONT. The salesguy Ed was very nice, a total professional and the entire experience although nerve-wracking, went on smoothly. This is my first leasing and hopefully the first of many more!
My prices are as follows:
MSRP with AC + Auto - $22,285.00
Freight - $1,195.00
Metallic Paint - $105.00
Options - $455.00
Discount - $1175.00
Total - $22,915.00
Lease payment - $295.94 with $175.00 down
With tax - $340.33 ( All prices Canadian)
Additionally, I will get the windows-engraving, wheel nuts, full tank of gas and zero safety deposit or processing fees.
My first payment is $800.00, and this includes first lease payment, $175 down, $175 as AC & Gas tax + tax)
To me, it looked good and so went ahead and signed it.
Most importantly, my sales experience was very good thanks to Ed and I would definitely recommend Cumming Mazda, Orangeville, ON for anybody who is interested in Mazdas.
Your comments are most welcome.
Thanks.
Freight - $1,195.00
Metallic Paint - $105.00 + Options - $455.00
Discount - $1175.00
-----------------------
Total - $22,915.00
Lease payment - $295.94 with $175.00 down
With tax - $340.33 ( All prices Canadian)
Sounds good; nice discount.
You mention options, was that the engraving and wheelnuts or something else?
At the end of the 48 month lease what is the residual value of the car
(money that you would have to pay to buy it outright)?
You mention options, was that the engraving and wheelnuts or something else?
At the end of the 48 month lease what is the residual value of the car
(money that you would have to pay to buy it outright)? " - autonomous
Thanks Autonomous. My lease on the car is for 4 yrs & Mazda bumper-to-bumper warranty is for 3 years / 80k kms. I extended it to 4 yrs / 100k kms by purchasing additional warranty ( MAP - in Mazdaspeak) and the charge for this was $455.00. This also gives me option to buy additional factory warranty further upto 8 yrs / 160k kms at the end of the lease, if I want to keep the car.
I forgot to mention the freebies that I could manage to get out of the salesman during the haggling:
1) Windows engraving
2) Wheel nuts
3) Full tank of gas ( I guess this would have come anyway)
4) Touch up paint and pen.
5) Zero security deposit, zero processing or bank fee
Payment on delivery is: $800.00, which includes $175 down, $175 gas + AC tax, $340 first lease payment and taxes.
The residual value of the car is $11,385.50.
So, if I buy the car at the end of the lease, my total payment would be:
Lease payments for 48 months - $16334.01
Residual value + tax - $13093.32
Total - $29424.36
Compare this to $26352.25, total due if I were buying the car with cash down. So, if I am right, $3072.11 is the difference between leasing the car for 4 yrs and then buying compared to buying with total cash down.
I am happy with the deal and now impatient to get my hands on the car. I am getting delivery on Jun 17th. I am going to take the car straight for window tinting.
Can anybody tell me the initial kms to be put on before we can go at highway speed? Is it 1000 kms? Any other precautions to be taken on the delivery day? Any last minute checks to be done? Thanks in advance.
Can anybody tell me the initial kms to be put on before we can go at highway speed? Is it 1000 kms? Any other precautions to be taken on the delivery day? Any last minute checks to be done?
You sound like your revved up for a great summer!
You can ask your salesman, but my understanding is that there is no limit on the speed; actually what you want to avoid is staying in a constant speed and rather "flex" the car a bit. Personally, I would not go over 120kmh the first day but I don't think after a couple of weeks you'll do it any harm exploring higher numbers. So go slow, go fast, be happy! As for precautions on delivery, use your usual common sense ... check that the car comes with all the promised features, and have the salesman show you everything. I created a little checklist to remind myself of all the details listed on the salesbrochure. I was also eagle-eyed when it came to scratches or defects, better to spot them early and get them written up. Don't forget the license plate and check all the paperwork twice.
Have fun driving a great car!
If it were a 200 hp-plus vehicle, i would say yeah maybe. certain cars with bigger engines, and free-er flowing exhausts...it could help to increase performance.
back in the day, i remember seeing the older (upto 92) 4-cyl Mustangs with 2 pipes..and on cold days, you'd see smoke from only 1 pipe.
total posers.
and by the way...maybe i'd agree with you, if the Sens EVER beat the Leafs in a playoff round.
The Salesman was very prompt. Our time for delivery was 9 am and the car was ready for us when we reached the lot. And promises were kept in terms of window engraving, wheel nuts, full tank of gas and touch up paint/brush, all free of charge. Paper work was dispensed in 5 mts, a brief reminder about the controls and basics of maintenance was done in about 10 mts, my licence plate was put up in a minute and off we went! Totally it was a pleasant experience!
Now to ensure that the first 1000 kms are done away asap but nicely and smoothly without over-revving the engine!
Initial feelings from the drive to the home: - handling of the car is exemplary, sterio is much better than expected, AC was not bad but the ride is much rough compared to my '95 Honda Civic, you get to know the road very intimately, every bump, every modulations, everything actually. Its mainly the noise from the tires.. I guess... Is it because of the brand of the tires? Bridgetones? or is it because the tires come with alloy wheels and 205 profile? Any expert advice will be appreciated.
Thanks.
I have been looking around the Mazda 3 for a while, I went to a dealer today and the manager gave me the following quote, I just want to know if is a good quote :
- 2005 Mazda 3 GT with Auto and GFX package: $23540.00
- Freight/PDI: $1195.00
- Metallic Paint + Extra Warranty: $560.00
- Air Tax, Fuel Tax etc... : $175.00
- Discount: $1955.00
For a four year (48months) finance at 2.9% with 0 down, the monthly payment comes to $596.00. The cost of borrowing is about $16xx.xx (can't exactly remember the number) for the 48 months period.
Does anyone think this is a good deal or do you think I can get a better deal elsewhere?
Thanks
You're right, it's due to the tires but also the "sporty" suspension. The brand of tires is not as important as its profile. A 205/55/16 is a lower profile tire which gives a more precise drive; unfortunately it also reveals imperfections in the road. I think you'll find that on highways these tires will add to your driving pleasure; in the city, especially after the winter thaw you'll find yourself muttering about the poor road maintenance and where have all your taxes gone.
The Mazda3 GT has an even more dramatic feel with its 205/50/17 set-up. Your 95 Honda was likely on 15 inch tires; lots of Civic owners modified their wheels as soon as they bought their cars; think of your Mazda3 as an already customized car.
p.s. For a truly jaw-jarring experience try a trip through the old part (18th century) of Montreal with its cobblestoned roads.
- Freight/PDI: $1195.00
- Metallic Paint + Extra Warranty: $560.00
- Air Tax, Fuel Tax etc... : $175.00
- Discount: $1955.00
Nice discount but the initial price took me aback. Did you forget to include A/C as part of the quotation when you posted it here? The GT hatchback appears to offer you more at a lower price. Have you tried the Build your car feature in www.mazda.ca? It's an easy way of comparing models and preparing yourself before talking with a salesperson. Tip: Do not feel pressured to purchase the car immediately; there are lots of great opportunities out there.
Mazda3 is the latest version of the proven Protege / 323 heritage of vehicles; it's probably the most reliable car that Mazda has built. On top of that, the Mazda3 is built in Japan which is synonymous with highest quality. The added warranty may reassure you but paying extra on top of the 3 year standard warranty may not be the wisest investment.
Thanks for your answer on tires. wrt driving on Montreal's roads of old town, herein Toronto, we have the long Steeles Ave, that would match up any cobblestoned roads with its own potholes and what-not
Arsenalgunners, As a 2-days old owner of Mazda 3 Sport GS, my advice would be to visit as many different dealers as possible in search of the best price, also, I would again agree with Autonomous to check out the hatchback. More versatility, more features and a good price.
But, I chose to extend the warranty to 48 months by paying $455 extra. This was because, i)Mazda bumper to bumper warranty is there for me for my entire lease term
ii) Road-side assistance is also extended to 48 months from 36 months, with unlimited kms
iii) At the end of the lease, if I am keeping the car, I have the option of buying additional warranty upto 8 yrs of 160k km
Remind me, are there still streetcar tracks on some busy city roads?
I have find that telling about different cities: how they want to hold on to their past, some knock down a historical building but preserve its facade, others rip through a neighbourhood to put in a superhighway but keep signs about the past, others preserve the past in a little ghetto-like area which becomes a tourist haunt, the growth of suburbs as the new city expands while the older part of the inner city becomes a ghost town after business hours, etc. The price of progress, I suppose.
I live in NC, we don't get deep snows.
fowler3
Hi Fowler,
Any of the recent tornadoes/hurricanes pass through NC? I think you said the Kumhoes handle the wet well.
I wonder what makes for a quieter tire, is it primarily the rubber compound or something else? I would think that a H tire may be made of a different compound than a V tire. Kumhoes "sound' like great tires.
Speaking of tires, wasn't the Michelin pull-out this weekend at the Indianopolis F1 amazing!
This is my first car ever and I am so new and fresh that I am worried that I might NOT get any discount/freebies. I was thinking about tinting the rear & back windows. I know it could be done in the dealership.
Also, what accessories should I get? I was advised to get moonroof wind deflector to lower / eliminate the wind noise. Any other suggestions?
I was given a free moonroof deflector to compensate for a small scratch near a door handle (looks like someone with a ring tried opening the door, I'll buff it out) but I find the roof not that noisy and the deflector covers alot of the open space.
My wife's Matrix is 2 weeks old...what a different car!
My dealer had 2 red gt automats in stock, no-one would trade out for a manual so if you can get one, grab it! (That's why some are selling over retail price, they know we want 'em!)
zoom zoom (sorry in quebec it's actually vroum vroum! )
I'm happy with the discount I was given (~1000) but it's not nearly what I've been reading from others.
I got no discounts other than graduate award ($500). Decided to get moonroof wind deflector. Few people recommended it. I am wondering now if I really need it!?
Of course, everyone would love a discount on everything, to the point, as one poster noted, that a dealer would offer the car for free and then throw in a secret "bonus just for you" while shaking your hand off. :P
It's obvious but let's repeat it: whether purchasing or leasing, always get the car at the best price possible. Most experts recommend starting at the invoice price not the MSRP; it's a little more difficult to find in Canada than in the US. An easy way to estimate Canadian figures is to use the percentage difference of the US model. For example, MSRP= U$22,000; invoice = U$20,000; difference = $2,000 ; percentage difference = $10%; subtract this 10% from the Cdn. MSRP to approximate the Cdn. invoice. This is not an exact correlation because of the different incentive programs (for example, Mazda routinely offers 0% to 2% purchase financing in Canada; this may not be offered in the US).
Consider also the market conditions; in June / July / August last year's models are being move to prepare for next year. Try for a deal on a model that is available, not on a special car that is nowhere to be found; if you're lucky you will get everything equipped the way you want at a lower price because the dealer needs to clear the lot soon. Don't be too rushed in making the deal; let the dealers know there are many choices that you can make and it's only if they work to find you the right car at a good price that you'll deal with them. It's also, worth remembering that a 2005 model is in effect a year old car at this point and has depreciated significantly in value should you try to resell it. Finally, even if you don't make a killer deal you have an excellent vehicle so don't let a couple of hundred dollars spoil the pleasure, chalk it up to experience.
And for all of you out there expecting your new baby: have a great summer! :shades:
Someone posted what will be new for 2006 and this included a 5Speed Automatic for the GT - aaaaargh.... now I don't know what to do ... do I wait till the fall to buy - will the 5Speed Auto even be better? hhhmmmmm
Other men may sympathise - I have to get the Auto because of the wife, but at least I get some control with the Sport Mode, which is a nice compromise...
You know another nice compromise is how the passenger(wife) ... can't see the gauges... that is so sweet... cruising at 140 without her knowing will be like cheating! weeeee
Any thoughts from current ownersof the 2.3L engine with the 4SpeedAuto... should I wait? (by the way I hate all current owners... nothing personal though... heheheheh)
My friend, the Mazda3 is an easy car to speed in. On more than one occasion, with my wife aboard, I have leisurely passed someone hogging the left lane at 65 (I like to go 68-70) ... and glanced down to realize, shockingly, that I'm not going 75 or 80 during my pass, but rather 90 or so!
On these occasions the wife has remained completely oblivious to the velocity I have attained!
Heh heh ...
Meade
The difference between the H and V tires, the H sidewalls flex more to dampen bumps. And for some reason they look thicker than 205/50/17" tires. The H is a touring summer tire. The Kumho Ecsta 711 has a better rating than the OEM 17s. One thing I noticed when buying the Kumos, the V rated tire tread looked more like snow tires, meaning noisy. The 711 tread pattern looks smooth and it IS.
I don't drive when it snows, just stock up and stay home. Too many NC folks don't know how to drive in even light snow, it's safer to stay home. Also, since North Carolinians think the state is 600 miles (1000km) farther south than it really is, there isn't enough snow removal equipment to clear the roads.
fowler3
Sorry, I'm late, but I just found this forum!
I bought my Mazda 3 hb in January, and I have recently gotten my first dent! It looks like a softball hit the back hatch right next the logo. Although it's not deep(?), and the paint is not damaged, it drives me bonkers just knowing it's there.
Back around message 81, someone had mentioned the Auto Dentist in Ottawa. I was wondering if anyone has actually had their car repaired by them. Should I chance these places, or should I just take my car back to Mazda for repairs?
Any advice would be appreciated.
Genie
Just bought Mazda 3 Sport GS 2 weeks ago. You can find the details of my pricing in the earlier messages in this discussion. If you need to know the invoice price of the car, contact carcostcanada.com. Another option is to visit atleast 3 different Mazda dealers and get the best pricing from them to decide on the best deal.
I had also shopped Matrix, Suzuki Aerio, Tucson/Sportage etc. before settling on Mazda 3 sport. For me, Mazda 3 GS Sport offered the most features for the price. I found GT to be little too rough in the ride and pricewise was in the mini-SUV territory.
Just last May, I had driven a rental Matrix for over 2000 kms on a road trip to Montreal and Quebec city. Positives of the car was good alround visibility, super smooth engine, fantastic mileage, separate opening of the hatch glass window, very good back-lighting of the instruments, more interior room and ofcourse the Toyota badge! Major negative was the poor seating ergonomics. No matter how many times I tried, I could never get the ideal seating position - either the steering wheel & instrument cluster was too far or my legs and arms were folded and I was too close to the airbag! Other minuses were Matrix does not offer clutchless manual shifting, poor audio system, low engine power, bland handling and much costlier when you tick all the options . Beware, different options are put together as package A or B forcing you to pay more. And, hope you know that if you opt for all wheel drive Matrix, actually you get a smaller powered engine compared to FWD one!
Good luck!
My wife's new Matrix now has 1000km on it, it is a Matrix TRD edition, which means it comes with 17-inch 5 star mags (beautiful), skirts, fogs, wing, big TRD exhaust tip, momo-style TRD shifter, TRD trunk emblem,and Panasonic radio.
My M3 is a GT with leather, sunroof. Check mazda.ca and toyota.ca for specs.
Here's my pros and cons of the Matrix and M3.
Matrix pros:
About 5 to 10 real-world miles per gallon better than M3 when driven moderately.
Seat position gives you almost an SUV feel (if you like that).
Great visibility all around.
TRD add-ons make for a cool look.
Rear seats fold flat and entire trunk area including seat backs are plastic with slider tracks for tie-downs. Passenger seat folds forward and flat. (This make the Matrix an ideal Home Depot runner)
Tailgate window opens separately from tailgate.
Tall and spacious.
It's a Toyota, after 14 years and 5 corollas, my wife has NEVER been to the dealer.
Better paint than Mazda.
Great manual shifter feel.
Outside temperature display in dash.
Great headlight & foglight illumination.
Matrix cons:
Virtually no power for a car this size.
You can't get power window or a sunroof in the TRD version?? That's another "package".
Seat position gives you almost an SUV feel (if you don't like that).
Some components and surfaces are really cheap, like the trunk area cover is basically a vinyl bag that hooks to the trunk sides.
Because the trunk is all plastic, everything not ted down goes flying around (like our groceries).
Remote for doors is a $400 option!
Mazda 3 GT pros:
Full comprehensive accessory list.(but not as good as in the USA)
Beautiful Euro-style interior.
Silky-smooth engine with adequate power.
Better suspension than Matrix.
Deals with 17-inch wheels with less deflection than Matrix.
Great trunk space separator.
Better exterior build quality than the Matrix. (fit/finish)
Rain sensing wipers work well.
Auto lighting works well.
Good headlight and foglight illumination.
Mazda 3 GT cons:
Looks faster than it is. (but still WAY faster than Matrix)
Scratchable interior surfaces.
Cheap, thin paint.
Vague shifter.
The 3 was about $3000cdn more than the Matrix TRD, so a better comparison would be the Matrix XR with the B package, this way you are comparing apples to apples (sunroof, electric everything, remote entry, but still no leather) And then they are the same price. One is a sporty little euro-style-compact the other is possibly the most practical, economical, reliable car on the market. Aside from having slightly similar shapes, they have NOTHING in common. My wife loves the seating position in the Matrix while I find it bizarre, I love the low seat position in the 3, with my wife cranks the height all the way up.
Apples and oranges, but I see advantages that would make me happy with either one.
I agree that the comparison cannot be exact because of the differences in the options that get packaged with each model. I think if we removed the leather and moonroof options the price difference would be much less.
Your comment about practical, economical, reliable is dead on. I find it interesting that Toyota does not advertise the Matrix; isn't it because we automatically assume since it's a Toyota it must be practical, economical, reliable? On the other side, I think we would both agree that the Mazda3 is a perfect representative of its brand message of zoom zoom.
Looking forward to get my M3 Sport GT, I will be signing this week.
http://www.1010tires.com/
Are the price of the tyres representative?
Thanks again.
Meade
I have learned a lot just by reading your posts here, and well I decided to post mine...here goes
Okay I think I may have convinced my dad to trade in our 1998 Toyota RAV4 4WD 4DR (which im driving up in ottawa) and to get another Mazda 3.
Earlier last year my brother got a Mazda 3 GT GFX w/leather. Although leather is nice, I sweat like there is no tomorrow...and well on a hot stinking day thats the last thing i want to feel, is leahter toasting my rump!
Okay so yeah I have decided to get the following:
Mazda 3 GT (cloth) GFX 4spAT AC, in Winning Blue Mica
I have also though about adding the following:
Aluminum Fuel-Filler Door, Satin
Cargo Mat
Decorative Trim, Instrument Panel
Door Switch Panels
Leather-Accented Gear Shift Knob
Leather-Accented Parking-Brake Handle
Lower Door Mouldings
(Based on Quebec Price online: 25 119.04 before, 30 267.72, of course it will hopefully be less (i think) and as well maybe a tradein credit added on there...purchase will be done at Mazda Gabriel, where my parents got our frist M3 from, and where we got my aunts 323 (or is 232, anyways it was a midget car)
So yeah I wish Mazda Canada's website had pictures of all their accessories
I know what the Aluminum fuel door looks like, and the cargo mat..but the rest I am somewhat lost with it
I liked my brothers car because the steering wheel is leather wrapped (feels very nice) and the shifter had a leather finish. I also read in teh specifications that with or without leather, the steering wheel is already wrapped...but when i click on the accessories brochure it will show the steering wheel with two leather tones instead of one black leather tone
So yeah what do the Dectorative trim., switch panels, gear shift, brake handle and steering wheel look like with the sport black/blue fabric..My goal is that the shifter, brake handle, and steering wheel be a solid black leather, and hopefully not two tone, or if two toned, have black as one of the tones.
Also I read on an oem accessories websit that with sill extensions, lower door moldings make the car look ultra sweet. The pictures they provided were the exact same for both, and over at howardforums when I asked the question no one knew LOL. So yeah what is the difference and what does each look like
Again guys really appreciate this
PS. Oh yeah thanks for the comparison with the Toyota Matrix...one thing I know that in comparison to the matirx i heard that the 3 is ultra quiet...and well thats a reason why i am choosing the 3
The Matrix and M3 at highway speed are about the same as far as interior noise is concerned (unless the sunroof is open). But at any time that you make a request for some horsepower from the engine, the M3 seems to "just do it" and deliver what it's got, where the Matrix has a KitchenAid blender under the hood that kicks in to remind you it's an economy car.
I will give that the Matrix at a casual pace is quieter than I expected since my wife's last Toyota (2003 Corolla) was quite a bit noisier than her 1999 Corolla.
Madza rules, wahoo!
Also a plug to Chambly Mazda (Quebec) who gave me a fair trade in value ($2700 more than GM would!) a good deal on price, and really good care every step of the way. (Had to find me an indigo ink Sport GT Manual with leather)
If I'm not allowed to plug the dealer, I'm sorry.
Reading around, you people really know your stuff. So I thought I would detail what I was considering, and hope you can provide comments,
Mazda 3 GS
Automatic
Power Package (mainly for cruise control)
MP3 Player (can i get this on GS?)
Body Colour Rear Spoiler
Sunset Orange Mica, or Indigo Blue Mica (not on site??, available on GS?)
Total purchase price after taxes, etc= $23, 436.83 (as per website)
Any recommendations/suggestions/answers to my questions would be appreciated.
Cheers
Rich
fowler3