Hi all. Just wanted to drop a note about bringing home my 3S. I had to laugh a bit reading comparisons to the Acura TSX and even the venerable BMW 3-series. As someone else said, it's flattering that the Mazda is even being mentioned along these upper car lines. Just goes to show how far this car has gone in improvements, I guess.
But I picked up my 3S for under $20K and it came with the ABS and safety curtain package along with the Xenons and 17" rims. I wanted as much safety around me as I could get and was pleasantly surprised that all this was packaged in this car segment.
As an owner of a Lexus RX300, I know the virtue of a fine suspension and smooth ride. And with a bank vault like interior for quieting noise and harshness. Does the 3 meet these qualities. Not really. But it wasn't like I stepped into the cheapest, lowest quality made vehicle either. NVH is very well dampened. And I was very surprised by how good the ride was from the 17s. Absorbing bumps and such was easily suppressed and yet my backside wasn't punished either. Sure it can get a little jittery as the pavement misbehaves but the composure of the little sedan made me wonder just how much I really missed my RX. A real testament to the quality of the ride was expressed through my little boy who feel asleep in his car seat in the back throughout the longer than usual test drive.
I didn't want to like this sedan at first, but as I drove it through my usual commute and then back home, I found the grin on my face hard to remove. The stares from other cars and pedestrians were numerous as well - and I don't think it was because I had toilet paper stuck to my shoe.
It was all about expectations for me and the new 3 either met or exceeded mine in all ways. I hope to have many a happy rides in my little "econobox". :-) And shame on the BMW owners who gun their engines at me at the stoplights. Did I tell ya I get over 29 on the highway on regular unleaded?
"And I was very surprised by how good the ride was from the 17s. Absorbing bumps and such was easily suppressed and yet my backside wasn't punished either. Sure it can get a little jittery as the pavement misbehaves but the COMPOSURE of the little sedan made me wonder just how much I really missed my RX. A real testament to the quality of the ride was expressed through my little boy who feel asleep in his car seat in the back throughout the longer than usual test drive."
That's right, it's the composure. Almost like the TSX, the 3's firm ride still comes from relatively long "Focus size" springs, unlike those typical shallow-riding Japanese cars such as the I35. So the 3's springs get compressed progressively as the bumps hit harder & harder.
That's why the 3 from Mazda rides about as well as the 3 from BMW w/ sport suspension, albeit w/ slightly quicker jiggles from the shock's rebound looseness.
"And shame on the BMW owners who gun their engines at me at the stoplights."
Why? 'cause the 3S sedan looks racier than the Beemer.
I remember during the early '90's, those ES300, etc drivers bothered to race w/ me when I drove the '90 Camry but not my sedate-looking sports-car-handling little '90 Protege LX. It was the Seattle trip when I drove my twin-cam Pro(w/ std close-ratio 5-sp) racing w/ a Maxima going through the twisties somewhere, I believe, north of California, that Nissan driver had to check me out only to find out a nerdy-looking driver w/ glasses. So as he passed me again, he kept checking out my car, wondering why is it so capable racing on the twisties, both up & down hills. Hey Hey Hey!
By the way, My '90 Pro LX w/ factory sport suspension actually has an absorbent ride after the Gabriel shocks were installed & still handles.
Try putting four adults in the MZ3 and report back how the ride went as compared to just one driver in it. Observe acceleration, bounciness, and handling.
My current ride is a manual M6i, which really is for the wife until I decide on my next vehicle. Previously I had an Acura CL (one failed transmission was enough). The previous CL & TL models at $27k were pretty good price points, but when the TSX took over the price and the TL move to the 33 range, Acura lost me when their prices went that far north.
I can’t decide whether to get something practical and functional, or just down right fun. Test driven the RX8 twice and I love it, but the MPG is way too far off the mark, I’m speaking of those people who are getting way below the EPA numbers.
Test drove the M3s, and for the $17-18k I was pretty impress. The clutch and gear shift seem much shorter and smoother than my 6, I may have to the shop look at my 6 when I return for maintenance. The 3 seemed to be a little more nimble easier to toss around, for me a very livable car, I would prefer a little less road noise. I've grown very tired of paying $10-15k more for the luxury badges, not to mention the insurance and property taxes. It just does not seem to be worth it, unless one has lots of money to burn.
I will test drive one again, just to confirm my feelings on the ride and noise.
I drove with my wife, son and salesperson in the car when I tested the 3, therefore my comments are based upon that plus when I took the 3 home - I left the salesman back at the dealership. :-)
But to address your post regarding acceleration, bounciness and handling (on a scale of 1-5) I'd give the Mazda a "4" on acceleration, a "3" on bounciness and a "4" or "5" on handling.
To elaborate a bit, the acceleration was suprisingly crisp and in abundance when I stepped on the pedal. Merging onto the highway on an uphill slope proved a lot less unnerving than I expected in a four-cylinder.
The "bounciness" was not apparent at least according to my wife. We normally have one of us in the back with our son who's in a carseat. This time I drove and she rode with him. I made certain to travel on less than perfect pavement (very typical in my town) and the one comment she made was that the seats were firmer than our RX300 - go figure.
As for handling, my rating was based on steering feel and just overall demeanor of the vehicle when changing lanes on the highway or making a tight turnaround in a parking lot. It just felt tighter and more responsive than my SUV - go figure. But as a previous owner of an Acura Integra, I know the 3 was more taught and tracked more truely.
Can you tell I like the 3? :-)
I'm in the "honeymoon phase" of ownership but this car had made some really good first impressions with us.
I noticed no one really ever responded to the question about whether tires contribute to ride harshness.
You betcha.
My wife and I own two Proteges -- a 2000 ES (mine) and a 2002 Protege5. My 2000 ES 5-speed came with V-rated 195/55-15s, which are fairly low-profile tires for 15-inchers. When I replaced the tires, I opted for a "touring" tire and purchased the BF Goodrich Touring T/A VR4 in a 205/55-15, which, though still V speed rated, has a taller sidewall. The ride was (and still is, 20,000 miles later) much smoother and quieter, and mild pavement variations do not transmit jolts and jerks to the interior as much. (Yet I still retained good cornering and handling almost as much as the stock Bridgestone Poortenzas -- go figure -- not bad for a tire I purchased for $80 each at Costco.)
I lurk here because my next car will be a 3S wagon, probably a 2005 model. And yes, those low-profile tires will be harsher than what I'm used to now, and Mazda's (once again) choice of a quirky tire size will make wheel-fitting tire options hard to find. But I have faith!
While I'm on my soapbox, for those of you who have chosen to make the Mazda3 your first Mazda, let me make you feel even better about your choice. My 2000 Protege is my third Protege (fourth if you count my wife's P5). My first one, a 1992 LX, died an early death at age 10 months in a hydroplaning accident. I experienced how a Protege does 45-to-zero in a fraction of a second, into the rear end of a Volvo 245 DL wagon at a traffic light. Car was totaled; hood buckled and engine dived as designed. No airbags in the '92s, just those damned motorized "passive restraint" belts. Even so, they stopped my 250-pound body with nothing but a bruised sternum and I walked (OK, hobbled, weeping bitterly) away from the accident.
I was so astounded by how well that little car saved my life that I took my insurance check and replaced it with a second '92 Protege, which I drove 83,000 miles in only 26 MONTHS delivering pizzas while in college. Never had a problem with the car, despite the extremely high stop-and-go driving.
My third and current Protege is my daily commuter and weekend grocery getter (even has carried things like OSB board and huge bags of mulch; hey, I don't own a pickup). I bought it in May 2000 and, nearly four years later, I have 70,500 miles on the car. Never one problem. My wife's 2002 Protege5 just crossed 30,000 miles and, ditto, never a problem.
Thanks for the reassurance. Yeah, the 3S sedan is my first Mazda. That was an amazing story you wrote about your wreck in the Volvo. This was one of my concerns getting a smaller car but with the added safety features of ABS, EBD, air bags and curtain, I have much more peace of mind. I, too, hope to have as undramatic an experience with the 3 as my previous vehicles (Honda, Acura and Lexus) not including an Isuzu Rodeo (TERRIBLE).
The MZ3 has something that almost all cars in its class don't have....the tremendous ability to avoid an accident. We had a ride and drive where we were able to do some wild emergency maneuvers in the MZ3 compared to others and it was by far the best.
"Test drove the M3s, and for the $17-18k I was pretty impress. The clutch and gear shift seem much shorter and smoother than my 6, I may have to the shop look at my 6 when I return for maintenance. The 3 seemed to be a little more nimble easier to toss around, for me a very livable car, I would prefer a little less road noise."
I think you summed up the primary differences between the Mazda6 and Mazda3 perfectly. In several back-to-back test drives of the two, I came away with the exact same thoughts.
I wonder how much you could expect to reduce the road noise on a Mazda3 s 5-door, using better tires, undercoating, and maybe that sound-absorbing mat stuff (what's it called?). Anybody?
Thanks for all your input on the safety of MZ3. I let my young son drive for the second time at night on the freeway in the Mz3 with my wife, daughter and myself. He was very confident in driving it and was able to maneuver safely and quickly around potential hazards. The road noise was much less with four people inside. Still quick in acceleration. Very classy and comfortable indeed. Considerably less bouncy. Handling very responsive. This car is a keeper.
Hello all, looking to buy soon. Have narrowed choices to Mazda 3 hatch and Toyota Matrix hatch. Have test drove both. Mazda seems to offer more but I am unfamiliar with their quality record over the years, I have noticed more complaints on this board on the "3" than I found on the Matrix board. Each vehicle seems to have it's good and bad points. I am even leary of the Mazda/Ford relationship, having owned several Ford products in the past. I have never owned a Mazda, and would certainly appreciate any feedback or advice.
Interesting question, in that our final choice also came down to Matrix vs M3. Now the proud owner of GT Hatch, no problems yet.
But, have owned Toyota's for years and hard to fault them for quality - no problems, period. In this case, chose M3 for two primary reasons - it has more driver leg room because of particular seat configuration (coupled with telescopic wheel which is a great asset in my case), and secondly because it is more FUN to drive.
Matrix was noisier. M3 also has more bells and whistles for same price. It has superior styling, at least to my eyes. Love on-wheel controls.
To get to your basic question, how about quality? Well, first year redesign means there will be a few glitches, but I have not seen anything on this site that would persuade me that this will be a lemon. Air bag sensor problem is minor. Stalling in intersections? Well, this has happened to me before with other cars occasionally, for different reasons (I am 70 and have driven mucho miles).
Most Mazda owners who I have known over the years have been positive on their experience. The Ford connection has no negative bearing in my opinion, since this is a Japanese built car built to tight specifications.
Final note - check out your dealer, if you have a choice. What a difference this can make in the whole buying/maintenance experience!
For performance, handling, and styling, go with the 3. For rear seat comfort, cargo room, and a smoother ride, go with the Matrix. The Protege had a fine reliability record and the 3 should be no different.
I've read and heard about the ride and drives when the Mazda 6s came out and now more recently with the 3. There's going to be one of those "Rev it Up" driving schools in Houston, TX not too far from me - I'm very interested in being there to learn more about me and my 3's handling abilities.
of being reliable small cars. Many owners have driven them well over 100,000 miles with no major problems, just routine maintenance. I expect the same for the Mazda3: Economical, reliable, practical, fun to drive. And a bargain when considering content compared to the competition.
One poster here the past couple of days has compared the Mazda3 to the Acura TSX, a small car that comes loaded with everything. When the Mazda3 is equiped as closely to the TSX as possible it comes in $6,521 less for about the same size car. The TSX has a slightly larger wheelbase (105.1 inches) and trunk (13.2 cubic feet).
One thing I thought was interesting when checking out these two models; both Acura and Mazda offer beige and black leather trim with the same exterior colors -- Black, Red, and White w/beige, but only on the Mazda6. The 6 also offers beige in Sepang Green. All MZ3s get black leather.
Hi all, I need someone to shed some light on something I noticed the other day...
On the driver, bottom left side there is sort of a "nook" just below the switches that control the console lighting and Xenon adjustment (if you have that option). Well on the top side of that nook I noticed there appears to be some sort of connector but nothing is covering it. Does anyone know what I'm talking about? And if so, am I missing a cover? Just curious.
"Sales of the Mazda3 totalled 2,510 in January, passing the Civic, which has perennially been the No.1 passenger car in Canada, show sales numbers compiled by DesRosiers Automotive Consultants Inc. Sales of the Civic totalled 2,467, off 25.4 per cent from the previous January. "
"Mazda 3 zooms past Honda Civic" is Financial Post (Canada) column headline today March 3. In a down market, Mazda only one significantly up in the first two months of 2004. Quoting Post, "..Mazda introduced a fresh brand at a time when cars from other auto makers have grown a bit stale..".
Interesting to me is that car is aimed at younger segment, but when this senior (and a couple of my senior friends) test drove both, we just plain enjoyed the fresh interior and more agile handling. 'Course, we downhill ski too!
It continues to amaze me why Civics sell in such large numbers in the U.S., when there are other small cars such as the 3 that beat it in performance and/or value. Not to mention looks. However, Civic sales have been slipping of late in the U.S.
Diffference : $12,400 CND dollars !!! (I think we went through this many times before, but I like to tap myself in the back one more time each time...)
You can see the gap between fully loaded 3 sedan and base TSX here in Mountie country is the Grand Canyon compared to you guys. Same thing applies for the gap between Mazda3 and Subaru WRX, and worse... WRX is available in Maryland for about 21K US!! (but it is still the ugliest good performance car around)
closer to $23400 with leather, and in fainess you do miss out on things like traction control/side airbags/arguably better quality trim bits. Your point is however still well taken. Include our outrageous taxes, and it gets even worse. I don't know about you, but $6500, even canuck bucks is still not chump change for me
You can dramatically reduce the road noise in any car - what you are thinking of is Dynamat. Dynamat makes a variety of sound deadening products. They are used primarily for expensive car sound systems - they have spray on coatings and a variety of mat type applications.
I've used Dynamat before and highly recommend their products - they are easy to apply. For road noise in the 3 I'd think all you'd have to do is remove the plastic fender liners and spray their sound deadening material under there and replace the liner. You could also apply the mat to the trunk area - you'll notice a huge difference in road noise. It's reasonably priced too - and no I don't work for them :-)
Hello again - I just wanted to bring this question up once more before it gets lost in the shuffle, thanks...
#6610 of 6617 Is something missing? by kmh2468 Mar 03, 2004 (12:34 am)
Hi all, I need someone to shed some light on something I noticed the other day...
On the driver, bottom left side there is sort of a "nook" just below the switches that control the console lighting and Xenon adjustment (if you have that option). Well on the top side of that nook I noticed there appears to be some sort of connector but nothing is covering it. Does anyone know what I'm talking about? And if so, am I missing a cover? Just curious.
Like gandrigo said, you have to take into account the big ticket items on the TSX --- high-end stereo, zenon, traction and stability control, side curtain airbags, no-charge optional 5-speed manumatic, not to mention that the TSX is a bigger, roomier car and the engine is a couple of classes above the 3's.
I'm not bashing the 3. I think, on paper, it mops the floor with the Civic.
Hi all, I need someone to shed some light on something I noticed the other day...
On the driver, bottom left side there is sort of a "nook" just below the switches that control the console lighting and Xenon adjustment (if you have that option). Well on the top side of that nook I noticed there appears to be some sort of connector but nothing is covering it. Does anyone know what I'm talking about? And if so, am I missing a cover? Just curious.
Thanks.
Somebody asked that earlier and I think the answer was -- it's where the service tech plugs in the diagnostic connector. No cap is needed.
I did a build order on Acura's web site, the only options are the Nav system and two alloy wheel styles. Then did the same thing on Mazda's web site adding all the options which matched the TSX list. Of course you can't really "match" the TSX precisely.
The TSX has a powerful audio system with 8 speakers, better leather, traction control, longer wheelbase, larger trunk, wood or metal dash trim, chrome trim for the outside (door handles), different engine.
Included with the MZ3 is the Sport Package, which I left off the TSX. The Nav systems were left off of both. MSRP on the TSX $27,906; the MZ3s sedan $21,385.
Civic sales in the US were up significantly last month.
As for the 3 vs TSX you can't really compare: two different price ranges and cars.
Mazda 3 sales were up last month in the month in the US from January figures. The 3 sold 5,090 uunits while in January the 3 sold 4,426 units. The 3 is really in demand with not alot of discounting so far. I think once Honda brings the new Civic out it might spoil the 3's parade though.
I dont think the US Mazda3 has traction control either.
I went for an errand at lunch and ended up parking side-by-side a spitting image of myself... orange GT-GF.. yadi yada you know the rest. No bug deflector though, so it wasn't stokkes!
Well would you know, after two-days ON, now the Airbag light is OFF... same predicament, do I run into the dealer with the light OFF and claim it stays ON?! I think I'll wait unitl it comes back on, as the service rep said just to drop in anytime w/out an appointment, and they'll diagnose it right away.
I'm pretty sure the car will store the error code, or at least it should. Besides, Mazda should change them all out in any case because of the high incidence of failures. no doubt with some improved weather quite a few of our lights will be going off.
the rev-it-up driving event was great. It allowed people to really find out how far you could push the car and still feel in control..it also exposed some other big name brands weak points.
I feel it help mazda to sell cars to people who may not have had the opportunity to really test the cars ability on a typical around town test drive. Mazda's shine towards the limits where others fall apart. This surprised alot of the rev-it-up drivers. It looks like other brands are on the bandwagon trying the same thing now. I got an invite from Mercedes the other day to sign up for their race track driving event.
Thanks, I guess I missed the post about the connector. I was concerned about it being exposed. Strange that it wouldn't have some kind of cover or something to protect it from stray hands, coins, dust, whatever. ah, well.
Very cool and glad you had to hear you had a good time. How much behind the wheel time versus class time did you get?
You're also right about other carmakers doing similar things. As a Lexus owner, I've been invited to their driving/marketing classes, too. Now if I can only find the time...
This would never happen if the Focus II platform isn't being adopted by the "new Protege". & I'm pretty sure if the Focus II plaform is donated to the Civic rather than the 3(323), then this would never happen.
"...not to mention that the TSX is a bigger, roomier car and the engine is a couple of classes above the 3's."
Our TSX w/ no-charge wide-ratio 5-sp auto drinks premium gas like a V6(maybe even worse!) but w/o the low-end output. Because it needs to rev high all the time before it can shift to the next gear several rpm lower. We revved all the time passing 4000 rpm w/o realizing it 'cause it revs smoothly & quietly. My fat-torque 4-cyl Protege & Corolla manual rarely need to go past 2900 rpm.
The only reason such 200-peak-hp engine exists is being lighter than the 6-cyl to keep the FWD's heavy nose light.
Its low rear seat's headroom is great, like the Mazda3 hatch, but the stretch-out leg room is worse than the Mazda3.
"The TSX has a powerful audio system with 8 speakers, better leather, traction control, longer wheelbase..."
A longer wheelbase that actually fits less human legs while the turning circle needs another human length?
W/ enough demands on the 3, next year's model should offer more options like Bose & DSC to keep the price closer to the TSX.
that the HVAC fan gets noisy even at "2". My Protege's 1990 technology can do better, but Toyota & Honda simply aced it -- my '98 Corolla blow quiet strong draft even at "1"!
Today I just put on a pair of Turanza LS-H tires in front of my '90 Protege, & the steering loses even more feel than the past older-style Turanza EL60! My car w/ lots of steering feel to begin with can afford to lose some, but not the electro-hydraulic-assist Mazda3 2.0 & 2.3. So the 3's in trouble. Its hard bushings desperately need Turanza's soft ride & road-noise suppression. The only Turanza that doesn't cut down the steering-feel much is the old one from the early '90's, but that on hydroplanes badly.
Again, the solution is to get the new S40. ;-) It has comfy enough ride & quietness that you don't need to use the Turanza's.
One of my favorite current TV commercials is the Mitsu Galant vs. Toyota Camry where the guys in the truck are hucking things at them to avoid. Mazda needs something like that to show what "zoom-zoom" really means...
Jgriff...you and I are facing the same dilemma bud...I love the Rx-8, and I don't care about gas mileage, but...the 3 is pretty nice and will save me about 8-12 thousand dollars. It doesn't quite have the same styling, or rear-drive, or 6-speed snick-snick...but...hmm, dang Mazda for making us make choices.
My protege should be fine for at least 3 more years, so I have some time. I think I am going to wait on the MazdaSpeed 3.
If they go with all-wheel-drive, at least 210 hp, and a much harsher suspension, for not much more than 20K, then I am sold. Sorry, Rx8.
The other thing is hopefully they will not ruin the looks, and make the package available in the 4 and 5 door. I like the looks just the way they are, I don't want a bunch of body cladding.
Throw a turbo in, with all-wheel-drive. Do some suspension tweaks. Let me worry about my own stereo and body "enhancements". Make it a "check" of a box on the order sheet, and add $2000 to the price and I am sold.
You could have a very fast normal looking 3, and if you leave off some options, you could still pay less than 20K. I would actually consider selling my Protege before I hit 100,000 miles if that were available!! (-:
Unless they are actually lighter than the 17" wheels. All you get is worse handling with a little sharper response (more unsprung weight vs. the lower profile tire.)
Are you listening Mazda?
Let me plug the Mazda Rev-it-up event. I loved it last year, and this year we get to drive Mazda3s. My local event is in May, and I'm chomping at the bit. (Plus I plan to take at least 15 test drives in the RX-8).
I don't know how many spaces are left by now (I signed up over a month ago.), but check it out if you can. You won't regret it...it's a lot of fun.
ITS TRUE ..... ITS TRUE I know exactly what you mean, having so many great features they should have the Remote Release. My biggest pet peev to date has been the trunk. For 1 there is no release on the key, and 2nd that when you go to open the trunk there isn't much there to hold onto. If there was a release, then it would probably give enough clearance to reach under the bottom of the trunk lid and pull it up. However, I do like how the hinge of the trunk is on the upper channel of the trunk, and gives more space in the trunk. I hope were not alone in thinking that a remote release would have been a valued addition to the 3!!!
At risk of stating obvious again, had call from my dealer today after three weeks 3GT hatch ownership. Just inquiring if I was happy with the car, any problems, etc, etc. I'd heard this dealer has this unique idea that personal and responsive service means repeat buyers, and nice to see it confirmed. Said he'll check back in a month or so.
Point? Per earlier post, choice of a dealer (if you have an option)can make a difference . And for an extra few bucks up front (ie don't beat your commissioned salesman completely into the ground}, you will gain disproportionate value down the road in lack of hassles. In my case,luckily, it turned out the closest dealer fit my criteria.
PS Not a problem to date with our silver bullet (except for my bride hoggin' it).
Yesterday it was Honda and today it’s Nissan. Nissan is recalling their 2004 QUEST minivan because the FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG deploys with a 6 year old type test dummy in the seat.
I am of the school of thought that EVERY vehicle has, at worst, the potential of being a LEMON. The only question remains is what are the chances of buying/driving one? For those having problems with their Mazda (regardless of which one), I'm sure Mazda will do right by you (can't say the same for the individual dealers, though they stand to make a bundle off of mfg's blunders).
I, too, was surprised about not having a remote trunk release from the fob. But it was a small compromise for for me with all the all really nice things like Xenons and Side curtain airbags.
Comments
But I picked up my 3S for under $20K and it came with the ABS and safety curtain package along with the Xenons and 17" rims. I wanted as much safety around me as I could get and was pleasantly surprised that all this was packaged in this car segment.
As an owner of a Lexus RX300, I know the virtue of a fine suspension and smooth ride. And with a bank vault like interior for quieting noise and harshness. Does the 3 meet these qualities. Not really. But it wasn't like I stepped into the cheapest, lowest quality made vehicle either. NVH is very well dampened. And I was very surprised by how good the ride was from the 17s. Absorbing bumps and such was easily suppressed and yet my backside wasn't punished either. Sure it can get a little jittery as the pavement misbehaves but the composure of the little sedan made me wonder just how much I really missed my RX. A real testament to the quality of the ride was expressed through my little boy who feel asleep in his car seat in the back throughout the longer than usual test drive.
I didn't want to like this sedan at first, but as I drove it through my usual commute and then back home, I found the grin on my face hard to remove. The stares from other cars and pedestrians were numerous as well - and I don't think it was because I had toilet paper stuck to my shoe.
It was all about expectations for me and the new 3 either met or exceeded mine in all ways. I hope to have many a happy rides in my little "econobox". :-) And shame on the BMW owners who gun their engines at me at the stoplights. Did I tell ya I get over 29 on the highway on regular unleaded?
My .02 cents.
That's right, it's the composure. Almost like the TSX, the 3's firm ride still comes from relatively long "Focus size" springs, unlike those typical shallow-riding Japanese cars such as the I35. So the 3's springs get compressed progressively as the bumps hit harder & harder.
That's why the 3 from Mazda rides about as well as the 3 from BMW w/ sport suspension, albeit w/ slightly quicker jiggles from the shock's rebound looseness.
"And shame on the BMW owners who gun their engines at me at the stoplights."
Why? 'cause the 3S sedan looks racier than the Beemer.
I remember during the early '90's, those ES300, etc drivers bothered to race w/ me when I drove the '90 Camry but not my sedate-looking sports-car-handling little '90 Protege LX. It was the Seattle trip when I drove my twin-cam Pro(w/ std close-ratio 5-sp) racing w/ a Maxima going through the twisties somewhere, I believe, north of California, that Nissan driver had to check me out only to find out a nerdy-looking driver w/ glasses. So as he passed me again, he kept checking out my car, wondering why is it so capable racing on the twisties, both up & down hills. Hey Hey Hey!
By the way, My '90 Pro LX w/ factory sport suspension actually has an absorbent ride after the Gabriel shocks were installed & still handles.
1davao
I can’t decide whether to get something practical and functional, or just down right fun. Test driven the RX8 twice and I love it, but the MPG is way too far off the mark, I’m speaking of those people who are getting way below the EPA numbers.
Test drove the M3s, and for the $17-18k I was pretty impress. The clutch and gear shift seem much shorter and smoother than my 6, I may have to the shop look at my 6 when I return for maintenance. The 3 seemed to be a little more nimble easier to toss around, for me a very livable car, I would prefer a little less road noise. I've grown very tired of paying $10-15k more for the luxury badges, not to mention the insurance and property taxes. It just does not seem to be worth it, unless one has lots of money to burn.
I will test drive one again, just to confirm my feelings on the ride and noise.
But to address your post regarding acceleration, bounciness and handling (on a scale of 1-5) I'd give the Mazda a "4" on acceleration, a "3" on bounciness and a "4" or "5" on handling.
To elaborate a bit, the acceleration was suprisingly crisp and in abundance when I stepped on the pedal. Merging onto the highway on an uphill slope proved a lot less unnerving than I expected in a four-cylinder.
The "bounciness" was not apparent at least according to my wife. We normally have one of us in the back with our son who's in a carseat. This time I drove and she rode with him. I made certain to travel on less than perfect pavement (very typical in my town) and the one comment she made was that the seats were firmer than our RX300 - go figure.
As for handling, my rating was based on steering feel and just overall demeanor of the vehicle when changing lanes on the highway or making a tight turnaround in a parking lot. It just felt tighter and more responsive than my SUV - go figure. But as a previous owner of an Acura Integra, I know the 3 was more taught and tracked more truely.
Can you tell I like the 3? :-)
I'm in the "honeymoon phase" of ownership but this car had made some really good first impressions with us.
Regards.
You betcha.
My wife and I own two Proteges -- a 2000 ES (mine) and a 2002 Protege5. My 2000 ES 5-speed came with V-rated 195/55-15s, which are fairly low-profile tires for 15-inchers. When I replaced the tires, I opted for a "touring" tire and purchased the BF Goodrich Touring T/A VR4 in a 205/55-15, which, though still V speed rated, has a taller sidewall. The ride was (and still is, 20,000 miles later) much smoother and quieter, and mild pavement variations do not transmit jolts and jerks to the interior as much. (Yet I still retained good cornering and handling almost as much as the stock Bridgestone Poortenzas -- go figure -- not bad for a tire I purchased for $80 each at Costco.)
I lurk here because my next car will be a 3S wagon, probably a 2005 model. And yes, those low-profile tires will be harsher than what I'm used to now, and Mazda's (once again) choice of a quirky tire size will make wheel-fitting tire options hard to find. But I have faith!
While I'm on my soapbox, for those of you who have chosen to make the Mazda3 your first Mazda, let me make you feel even better about your choice. My 2000 Protege is my third Protege (fourth if you count my wife's P5). My first one, a 1992 LX, died an early death at age 10 months in a hydroplaning accident. I experienced how a Protege does 45-to-zero in a fraction of a second, into the rear end of a Volvo 245 DL wagon at a traffic light. Car was totaled; hood buckled and engine dived as designed. No airbags in the '92s, just those damned motorized "passive restraint" belts. Even so, they stopped my 250-pound body with nothing but a bruised sternum and I walked (OK, hobbled, weeping bitterly) away from the accident.
I was so astounded by how well that little car saved my life that I took my insurance check and replaced it with a second '92 Protege, which I drove 83,000 miles in only 26 MONTHS delivering pizzas while in college. Never had a problem with the car, despite the extremely high stop-and-go driving.
My third and current Protege is my daily commuter and weekend grocery getter (even has carried things like OSB board and huge bags of mulch; hey, I don't own a pickup). I bought it in May 2000 and, nearly four years later, I have 70,500 miles on the car. Never one problem. My wife's 2002 Protege5 just crossed 30,000 miles and, ditto, never a problem.
And people pay thousands more for Hondas.
Zoom Zoom y'all,
Meade
Regards.
Meade
I think you summed up the primary differences between the Mazda6 and Mazda3 perfectly. In several back-to-back test drives of the two, I came away with the exact same thoughts.
I let my young son drive for the second time at night on the freeway in the Mz3 with my wife, daughter and myself. He was very confident in driving it and was able to maneuver safely and quickly around potential hazards. The road noise was much less with four people inside. Still quick in acceleration. Very classy and comfortable indeed. Considerably less bouncy. Handling very responsive. This car is a keeper.
1davao
But, have owned Toyota's for years and hard to fault them for quality - no problems, period. In this case, chose M3 for two primary reasons - it has more driver leg room because of particular seat configuration (coupled with telescopic wheel which is a great asset in my case), and secondly because it is more FUN to drive.
Matrix was noisier. M3 also has more bells and whistles for same price. It has superior styling, at least to my eyes. Love on-wheel controls.
To get to your basic question, how about quality? Well, first year redesign means there will be a few glitches, but I have not seen anything on this site that would persuade me that this will be a lemon. Air bag sensor problem is minor. Stalling in intersections? Well, this has happened to me before with other cars occasionally, for different reasons (I am 70 and have driven mucho miles).
Most Mazda owners who I have known over the years have been positive on their experience. The Ford connection has no negative bearing in my opinion, since this is a Japanese built car built to tight specifications.
Final note - check out your dealer, if you have a choice. What a difference this can make in the whole buying/maintenance experience!
One poster here the past couple of days has compared the Mazda3 to the Acura TSX, a small car that comes loaded with everything. When the Mazda3 is equiped as closely to the TSX as possible it comes in $6,521 less for about the same size car. The TSX has a slightly larger wheelbase (105.1 inches) and trunk (13.2 cubic feet).
One thing I thought was interesting when checking out these two models; both Acura and Mazda offer beige and black leather trim with the same exterior colors -- Black, Red, and White w/beige, but only on the Mazda6. The 6 also offers beige in Sepang Green. All MZ3s get black leather.
fowler3
On the driver, bottom left side there is sort of a "nook" just below the switches that control the console lighting and Xenon adjustment (if you have that option). Well on the top side of that nook I noticed there appears to be some sort of connector but nothing is covering it. Does anyone know what I'm talking about? And if so, am I missing a cover? Just curious.
Thanks.
http://www.autonet.ca/AutonetStories/Stories.cfm?StoryID=11281
"Sales of the Mazda3 totalled 2,510 in January, passing the Civic, which has perennially been the No.1 passenger car in Canada, show sales numbers compiled by DesRosiers Automotive Consultants Inc.
Sales of the Civic totalled 2,467, off 25.4 per cent from the previous January. "
Interesting to me is that car is aimed at younger segment, but when this senior (and a couple of my senior friends) test drove both, we just plain enjoyed the fresh interior and more agile handling. 'Course, we downhill ski too!
Looks promising for resale value.
...only if you ever want to let it go...you may not want to
...that may be the case in the US, but in Canada:
base TSX (loaded, stick) : 34,800 CND$
3 GT-GFX + leather (stick): 22,400 CND$ (just about)
Diffference : $12,400 CND dollars !!! (I think we went through this many times before, but I like to tap myself in the back one more time each time...)
You can see the gap between fully loaded 3 sedan and base TSX here in Mountie country is the Grand Canyon compared to you guys. Same thing applies for the gap between Mazda3 and Subaru WRX, and worse... WRX is available in Maryland for about 21K US!! (but it is still the ugliest good performance car around)
Pet
I've used Dynamat before and highly recommend their products - they are easy to apply. For road noise in the 3 I'd think all you'd have to do is remove the plastic fender liners and spray their sound deadening material under there and replace the liner. You could also apply the mat to the trunk area - you'll notice a huge difference in road noise. It's reasonably priced too - and no I don't work for them :-)
www.dynamat.com
#6610 of 6617 Is something missing? by kmh2468 Mar 03, 2004 (12:34 am)
Hi all, I need someone to shed some light on something I noticed the other day...
On the driver, bottom left side there is sort of a "nook" just below the switches that control the console lighting and Xenon adjustment (if you have that option). Well on the top side of that nook I noticed there appears to be some sort of connector but nothing is covering it. Does anyone know what I'm talking about? And if so, am I missing a cover? Just curious.
Thanks.
I'm not bashing the 3. I think, on paper, it mops the floor with the Civic.
HONDA has announced it is RECALLING 440,000 CIVICS (2001-2002) & INSIGHTS (2000-2002) because the low-beam headlights just fail without warning.
I don't have the total count of recalls on those Civics, but I think it is high (considering it's a Honda).
I will post this in the regular/original Mazda 3 forum and the Mazda 3 Hatchback forum.
On the driver, bottom left side there is sort of a "nook" just below the switches that control the console lighting and Xenon adjustment (if you have that option). Well on the top side of that nook I noticed there appears to be some sort of connector but nothing is covering it. Does anyone know what I'm talking about? And if so, am I missing a cover? Just curious.
Thanks.
Somebody asked that earlier and I think the answer was -- it's where the service tech plugs in the diagnostic connector. No cap is needed.
fowler3
The TSX has a powerful audio system with 8 speakers, better leather, traction control, longer wheelbase, larger trunk, wood or metal dash trim, chrome trim for the outside (door handles), different engine.
Included with the MZ3 is the Sport Package, which I left off the TSX. The Nav systems were left off of both. MSRP on the TSX $27,906; the MZ3s sedan $21,385.
fowler3
As for the 3 vs TSX you can't really compare: two different price ranges and cars.
Mazda 3 sales were up last month in the month in the US from January figures. The 3 sold 5,090 uunits while in January the 3 sold 4,426 units. The 3 is really in demand with not alot of discounting so far. I think once Honda brings the new Civic out it might spoil the 3's parade though.
I went for an errand at lunch and ended up parking side-by-side a spitting image of myself... orange GT-GF.. yadi yada you know the rest. No bug deflector though, so it wasn't stokkes!
Well would you know, after two-days ON, now the Airbag light is OFF... same predicament, do I run into the dealer with the light OFF and claim it stays ON?! I think I'll wait unitl it comes back on, as the service rep said just to drop in anytime w/out an appointment, and they'll diagnose it right away.
Pet
I feel it help mazda to sell cars to people who may not have had the opportunity to really test the cars ability on a typical around town test drive. Mazda's shine towards the limits where others fall apart. This surprised alot of the rev-it-up drivers.
It looks like other brands are on the bandwagon trying the same thing now. I got an invite from Mercedes the other day to sign up for their race track driving event.
Regards.
You're also right about other carmakers doing similar things. As a Lexus owner, I've been invited to their driving/marketing classes, too. Now if I can only find the time...
This would never happen if the Focus II platform isn't being adopted by the "new Protege". & I'm pretty sure if the Focus II plaform is donated to the Civic rather than the 3(323), then this would never happen.
Our TSX w/ no-charge wide-ratio 5-sp auto drinks premium gas like a V6(maybe even worse!) but w/o the low-end output. Because it needs to rev high all the time before it can shift to the next gear several rpm lower. We revved all the time passing 4000 rpm w/o realizing it 'cause it revs smoothly & quietly. My fat-torque 4-cyl Protege & Corolla manual rarely need to go past 2900 rpm.
The only reason such 200-peak-hp engine exists is being lighter than the 6-cyl to keep the FWD's heavy nose light.
Its low rear seat's headroom is great, like the Mazda3 hatch, but the stretch-out leg room is worse than the Mazda3.
"The TSX has a powerful audio system with 8 speakers, better leather, traction control, longer wheelbase..."
A longer wheelbase that actually fits less human legs while the turning circle needs another human length?
W/ enough demands on the 3, next year's model should offer more options like Bose & DSC to keep the price closer to the TSX.
Or should I blame Ford on this one?
Again, the solution is to get the new S40. ;-) It has comfy enough ride & quietness that you don't need to use the Turanza's.
Jgriff...you and I are facing the same dilemma bud...I love the Rx-8, and I don't care about gas mileage, but...the 3 is pretty nice and will save me about 8-12 thousand dollars. It doesn't quite have the same styling, or rear-drive, or 6-speed snick-snick...but...hmm, dang Mazda for making us make choices.
My protege should be fine for at least 3 more years, so I have some time. I think I am going to wait on the MazdaSpeed 3.
If they go with all-wheel-drive, at least 210 hp, and a much harsher suspension, for not much more than 20K, then I am sold. Sorry, Rx8.
The other thing is hopefully they will not ruin the looks, and make the package available in the 4 and 5 door. I like the looks just the way they are, I don't want a bunch of body cladding.
Throw a turbo in, with all-wheel-drive. Do some suspension tweaks. Let me worry about my own stereo and body "enhancements". Make it a "check" of a box on the order sheet, and add $2000 to the price and I am sold.
You could have a very fast normal looking 3, and if you leave off some options, you could still pay less than 20K. I would actually consider selling my Protege before I hit 100,000 miles if that were available!! (-:
Are you listening Mazda?
Let me plug the Mazda Rev-it-up event. I loved it last year, and this year we get to drive Mazda3s. My local event is in May, and I'm chomping at the bit. (Plus I plan to take at least 15 test drives in the RX-8).
I don't know how many spaces are left by now (I signed up over a month ago.), but check it out if you can. You won't regret it...it's a lot of fun.
If so, I can't understand why some many standard features are on the 3, but a simple FOB trunk release was bypassed/overlooked. That's just not right.
I know exactly what you mean, having so many great features they should have the Remote Release. My biggest pet peev to date has been the trunk. For 1 there is no release on the key, and 2nd that when you go to open the trunk there isn't much there to hold onto. If there was a release, then it would probably give enough clearance to reach under the bottom of the trunk lid and pull it up.
However, I do like how the hinge of the trunk is on the upper channel of the trunk, and gives more space in the trunk.
I hope were not alone in thinking that a remote release would have been a valued addition to the 3!!!
Point? Per earlier post, choice of a dealer (if you have an option)can make a difference . And for an extra few bucks up front (ie don't beat your commissioned salesman completely into the ground}, you will gain disproportionate value down the road in lack of hassles. In my case,luckily, it turned out the closest dealer fit my criteria.
PS Not a problem to date with our silver bullet (except for my bride hoggin' it).
I am of the school of thought that EVERY vehicle has, at worst, the potential of being a LEMON. The only question remains is what are the chances of buying/driving one? For those having problems with their Mazda (regardless of which one), I'm sure Mazda will do right by you (can't say the same for the individual dealers, though they stand to make a bundle off of mfg's blunders).
I know this is consistent with my Protege, and I agree it's annoying. I can't complain too much about a car that cost me 12,200 out the door.
At least they put a door lock button on the passenger door...this annoys me in my Protege and my MPV.