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Comments
I want heated seats and moonroof. So I have to buy a GT. A HB would be lighter. I threw the 2.3 liter in there because there are lots of left overs ,and someone on here have posted you can save alot of dollars on an 09.
A salesman tells me the milage is the same regardless of the transmission. I don't think so. I'd buy a HB GT to morrow loaded with all the bells and whistles ,if had a six speed manual and a 2.0 liter.Gas is going back up
again least we forget. :shades:
Strange.
Automatics quite often are less fuel efficient than manual transmissions although some automatics (e.g. Honda Civic) are changing this dictum.
The number of transmission gears is also an important factor; so a 5 speed automatic is often better than a 4 speed. A 6 speed manual is better than both.
The weight of a car can also be an important factor; less weight uses less fuel. As manufacturers add content to their vehicles, the weight moves in the wrong direction.
On the other hand, manufacturers are trying to improve fuel efficiency based on public demand so they introduce innovative technologies (e.g. direct fuel injection).
However, I would not be surprised if there is a 25+% advantage for the 2.0L over the 2.5L Mazda3.
According to EPA figures, there is little difference based on the transmission, but a significant difference between the two engines:
Mazda 3i: 25/33 w/manual, 24/33 w/auto
Mazda 3s 21/29 w/manual, 22/29 w/auto
The number of gears does not always dictate fuel economy. The gear ratios and final drive ratio often are the deciding factor in fuel economy.
MSRP $2473.00
- Discount $743.00
total $23,622.00
Add Title $26.00
dealer prep fees (paperwork) $289.00
add sales tax $1236.50 (maine) 5 % add Excise Tax 700.00(Town tax)Bring MSRP to town hall for true price.
Total cost (cash deal also) $25873.50 :confuse: Methinks I'll wait awhile and keep the money in the bank ,or maybe it's safer under the matress. :shades:
Agreed, it does not always dictate fuel economy. Nothing is a 100% but it is sensible to assume a 4 speed automatic is likely to be less fuel efficient than a 6 speed manual in the same car. When comparing the fuel economy of different vehicles, other factors come into play as well as the transmission and number of gears. Otherwise, why are manufacturers like Toyota and Mazda introducing 5, 6 (and in the case of BMW) 7 speed machines?
Dave in VA
06 TSX
08 V70
But those are typically not the choices. Long ago one often had a choice between a 3 speed automatic and a 5 speed manual. In those days, I would always choose the manual. In the Mazda3 the auto is now 5 speed and the manual is either 5 or 6.
In 2005 my wife bought a Jetta, the choices were 5 speed manual or or 6 speed auto. MPG ratings were about the same. The missing gear in the manual was 6th...meaning that the top gear in the manual was equivalent to 5th in the auto.
In 2007 I bought a Mazda6 and had a choice of 5 speed manual or 5 speed auto. MPG ratings were about the same. With the manual the rpms would be about 25% higher in the top gear. 5th gear in the manual is very close to 4th in the auto.
I would not be surprised if rpms in top gear are higher in the manual than in the auto, even with a 6 speed manual in the Mazda3.
Well, by then I'm sure the 2010 Mazda3 will just be "another car" to sell as far as a dealer is concerned. Now, if VW brings the new Rabbit to our side of the pond come September, I have no reason to believe that VW will discount those either. This makes even a little savings on a 2010 Mazda3 seem that much larger.
I agree with you about the Rabbit and the Mazda3 as being the top cars in the "hot hatch" market, especially with VW's improved reliability. Would I buy a Rabbit? Probably not. I have driven one (2007), though, and they are quite impressive.
Plus, the Golf/Rabbit is suppose to have a TDI version ready at launch.
You can forget about seeing any savings on those. My local VW dealer is still asking $2,000 over MSRP for the Jetta TDI's right now. Let's see how expensive diesel gets come summer time. If it gets around $5.00/gal like last summer, people may not want to pay a premium price for them. But, who knows!
I don't think it will take long for discounts to appear on the new Rabbit or the Madzda3.
My wife wanted the new Jetta in 2005. We ordered one within a month or so of launch, with maybe a token $100 discount. Then a month or so later, I found another dealer 70 miles away had just gotten in exacty what she ordered in and when I contacted them, they offered to sell for below invoice...that was $700-1000 less than the price we were offered on our order. We also got discount financing of 2.9% for 24 months. This was maybe 2 months after launch.
Me neither, but, I suspect in September that a Mazda3 will have a higher discount then a newly arrived Rabbit.
Actually, considering that there are still plenty of 2009 Mazda3 as well as the incoming 2010 Mazda3 the choices now are 4 or 5 speed automatics and the 5 and 6 speed manuals. Plus, the competition includes models with a similar array of choices. I think it is resonable for consumers to ask about the difference in transmissions and for salesmen to explain their product choices clearly.
I don't need to check the board here on Edmunds. I just need to place a phone call to my buddy who is a GM at a VW store, in which I just confirmed they have an addendum on all TDI's per the store owners request. And somehow, they get it. :confuse:
Perhaps your buddy was at lunch?
Or maybe he was on the phone..
Dave in VA
06 TSX
08 V70
You don't think for one minute that Honda dealers won't ask for full list, or more?? Common....Honda dealers are known for doing that.
I highly doubt the selling at MSRP thing will last too long.
As I said, dealers in my area are still charging AT LEAST MSRP, some more, for the TDI Jetta's.
Sorry, it was not I but the original poster who was comparing different engines, transmissions and model years. And that makes a lot of sense. Why wouldn't one compare the 2009 to the 2010? I've been comparing the models since 2002 (when I bought my Protege5, precursor to the Mazda3) and frankly I have not seen any significant improvement in terms of fuel economy. Toyota and Honda have far better records in this domain. How long will it take Mazda to produce a hybrid Mazda3?
Good idea. About a year and a half ago Mazda introduced the 2008, followed 6 months later by the 2008.5 and then again about 6 months later by the 2009 and now about 6 months later we see the 2010 model. Each time there is a new iteration, the previous model has to be moved off the lot quickly, which translates into more deal making. Good luck.
Everyone keeps complaining about the gas mileage and says Mazda should make a hybrid. Are you crazy? That is not what this car is about. If you like the car but want better mileage get the i version as it is comparable to the Civic in mileage. The S version mpg is exactly the same as the Civic Si. How can you complain? If you want a hybrid go buy one.
But, I am wondering why they chose to make the navigation screen so small?
It is almost a joke to even have it in the car. Its a little, tiny screen..lol.
Compared to the Acura TSX, the screen in the mazda is very small. I guess the location of the screen works okay, because you could be driving and glancing at the screen to find a location.
Q: Why do you think "everyone keeps complaining about the gas mileage"?
A: Because we all fear that the days of cheap gas are numbered. Once OPEC returns to $4 gas, we'll all be singing the praises of fuel efficiency again.
I am all for fuel efficient vehicles. That was a very important factor for me as I was making my buying decision as my friends pushed me toward a 17-18 city mpg v-6 car. What I am saying is that everyone wants the power, sport, handling, and solid feel, you get with a bigger engine and more solid vehicle like the Mazda 3. But on the same hand they also want 30 mpg city and 40 mpg hwy. That combo just really doesn't exist. Let me clarify that, it does not exist in this price range. Sure if you want to drop TDI money on a Volkswagen or similar vehicle you can sort of have your cake and eat it too but I didn't want to spend over approx $20k. For what I paid I can buy a lot of $4 fuel. I am very satisifed with my purchase in all facets. I am not saying that just because I have a big grin on my face.
So for the first time in 6 years I went over to a V Dub dealer. I looked at a Rabbit S auto, power seats. heated seats, mirrors and sunroof.The price $19325.00
What scared me was 170 HP and low MPG. Then I looked at the GTI loaded $23.200. Mazda prices can't compare to VW's I dont think.(no salesman came out they were a watching TV. I was wondering if my Type S is getting 31 highway and is the best HB I ever owned ,where have all the Hatches gone.If the GTI is geared like my Type S I bet I could get decent milage and more standard bells and whistles than Mazda and at a way better price.
Mazda won't deal at all.Am I crazy but I thought car dealers were in rough shape sales wise. Mazda said , if you don't take the gas grille we will take $500.00 of the GT HB I was interested in.
Lastly, I went over to Saturn, they have a HB called Astra 3dr. or 5 door and a salesman came out.They both come with heated seats ,lumbar support, but you can only get moonroof on 5 door. Actually the car is an Opel.Sharp cars for $20K,but 1.8 liter engines. handles like a sports car though.
Well, I'am waiting untill September untll Mazda gets off it's high horse.Also, in 2010 I hope Ford is smart enough to bring the HB Fiesta over.
Lastly, I think Ford and especially Acura goofed dropping its hatches :confuse: .
Yup, I think gas is giong up near $3. ,or $ 4.00 again . Then Diesel will be $5.50 or better. Then would you want a TDI? I don't think so.
However, this being ST. Paddy's Day I will Spend $9.00 for a rack of Guiness. :shades:
Sounds good to me. Cheers!!
Hmmm... As we all know car manufacturers choose different vehicles for different markets. In Canada Mazda has introduced the Mazda3 GX 2.0L engine as a fuel efficient cheaper alternative to the 2.3L and 2.5L versions. In the UK and elsewhere, there are the Mazda2 and the Mazda3 diesel; both of which are more fuel efficient while being affordable and zoom-zoom capable. Meanwhile, competitors like Honda are providing options like the Civic hybrid as cheaper alternatives to the Prius for our marketplace.
My sense is that not enough of dealers are hearing that fuel efficiency is a key driver in our decision making. Consider the last time you've seen an ad for a car praising its lightness and consequently its fuel efficiency.
Finally, a little disclosure: my 2002 Mazda Protege5 automatic is a treat to drive and averages 25 mpg overall. The P5 became the Mazda3 S in 2004. In the latest (April 2009) Consumer Reports, the Mazda3 S Grand Touring Hatchback was rated at 25 mpg; CR notes "Highs: Handling, powertrain, braking, reliability, standard ESC; Lows: Road noise, instrument contrast, unimpressive fuel economy".
A: Because we all fear that the days of cheap gas are numbered. Once OPEC returns to $4 gas, we'll all be singing the praises of fuel efficiency again.
Do you know what the 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 and the 2010 Mazda3 2.5 have in common? They have the same HWY EPA fuel economy numbers, both get 29 MPG. Of course, the Camaro also has 304 HP.
Dave in VA
When I bought my Type S it didn't have heated seats ,but the Canadian model did.
TY
The Camaro is a muslcle car and a fun ride. I get on I 70 with my 200 HP Type S and it wants to go,but not 45 miles an hour,rather 75miles an hour. No way do I get 29 mpg @ 75, I do at 60 though.Out west some states are'nt posted. I drove from Arizona to Vail . When I hit the Gun Barell 80 miles of road kill and desert I was averaging 85 to 100.
No way ,if you live in Wyoming,New Mexico, or CO and CA arwe you going to drive like Granny . You'll get run over. NO 304 HP car is bought with gas milage in mind.
The GX is the 2.0L Mazda3 with 148 hp and 135 lb.ft. of torque. It's available as a sedan (called Mazda 3 GX) or a hatchback (called the Mazda3 Sport GX). The GX model is over a thousand dollars cheaper than the pricier GS and GT versions of the Mazda3. For more information, Google Mazda Canada.
By the way, my 2002 Mazda Protege5 automatic is also a 2.0L but it outputs only 130 hp and 135 lb. ft. of torque. Its curb weight is 2749 lb; compare that to the 3077 lb. Mazda3 S GT automatic which is approx. 330 lbs heavier!
I'd argue that bigger is not better in this case. Imagine if the 2010 Mazda3 was lighter than its predecessor? Wouldn't that make it more agile, more fuel efficient, more zoom zoomier?
I agree if the 2010 Mazda 3 were lighter you would get alot zoom with gusto.Why can't they gear a 6 spd mazda 3 HB with the 2.0 and have a cold weather package and sunroof as an option?. No they want you to go to a S model.
I have had 2 RX 7"s a GX and and GXL and a Mazda 323 HB(I wish they made it now) I always liked the protege ES too.This Maxzda 08.5 New value I can't get my golf clubs in the trunk, let alone my mother in law.
I'm going to wait as much as I fear Volkswan Das Auto. You get what is optionable On a Mazda GT HB standard for $19600.00 now. I went to VW dealer yesterday. Also they have a 7 speed DGB transmission coming.,That Rabbit had heated seats and a sunroof standard. :confuse: .
The Camaro is a muslcle car and a fun ride. I get on I 70 with my 200 HP Type S and it wants to go,but not 45 miles an hour,rather 75miles an hour. No way do I get 29 mpg 75, I do at 60 though.Out west some states are'nt posted. I drove from Arizona to Vail . When I hit the Gun Barell 80 miles of road kill and desert I was averaging 85 to 100.
No way ,if you live in Wyoming,New Mexico, or CO and CA arwe you going to drive like Granny . You'll get run over. NO 304 HP car is bought with gas milage in mind.
I hear you - I'm sure those EPA numbers are probably on a downhill, coasting at 45 MPH, still EPA fuel economy numbers are all about playing the game and GM really did a good job to get a 29 Hwy MPG EPA rating.
I know that the 3 and Camaro are not direct competitors but you would be surprised who many people shop for cars simply based on their price point. Since there is a bit of overlap with their prices - some will cross shop the two.
Dave in VA
Inventory in the SD area as of yesterday: '08-3, '09-153, '10-118. The 4 dr. has about the same number of '09's as '10's, 98 vs. 95. For the 5 drs. it's 55 vs. 23. The 5 drs. seem to have arrived more recently. I hope there will be more incentives in April. We'll see. . .
I never liked V Dubs, but, I think they will make Mazda come down alot.
Also, I'm trying one and most likely switch to VW when 2010 gets here.
Hey try a build on the 2door both rockets. :shades: :
What are you talking about??? According to VW's website, a 4-door Rabbit with 17" alloy wheels (standard on Mazda3, option on Rabbit) is $20,690 MSRP. A 2010 Mazda3 s Sport 5-door is $20,200 MSRP. Where is the $3,300 difference you are talking about? I hope not the $16,300 strippy base model that has absolutely no equipment!!
Go to Car and Driver and you can build a 2dr(no armrest) or 4 dr. HB. This car is coming soon,but the Polo is not going on line untill Oct. Chill take a Tylenol. I like natural aspirated cars too.
However, V Dub could bring Mazda prices down. I think a Mazda speed is built on the same idea as the 2010 VW I built.
Well, for all you do this Guiness I'm drinkin' is for you :shades:
All that I have seen shows that the cars are priced the same, with the Mazda giving you more features at the GT level.
Since details about the North American Polo are not known, I guess it is irrelevant at this time.
As for the Mazdaspeed3, it can be had for less money then a GTI when comparably equipped.
Thanks
And as far as equipment goes, other than the lack of heated seats, a MZ3 S Sport 5 door with the Bose/Roof package has all that a Rabbit with all available options has going for it and more, and the prices are more than comparable. You can't get leather in a Rabbit at all, unless you count a GTI, and if you go that route you are in the upper $26k range MSRP (at least from what I can recall, I don't feel like parusing the back lot right now).
I think Mazda has it right finally. I wonder what Honda and Toyota will do?
Does mazda offer the 2.3 still?They might have all 3, 2.0 ,2.3,and a 2.5liter. I would prefer engines as an option though. I forgot the Rabbit has heated seats. I priced one with Moonroof and heated seats no arm rest $19600.00 MSRP. I think you're right ,but
I have to check mpg for both. :shades: