Does anyone own a Mazda 3? Is it good I read that they were made in Mexico, don't know if that is really a good thing. What do you think of the car, Or does anyone have any suggestions for a similar price.

 

I would test drive a new Civic as well..

 

Test drive the Mazda 3 and the new Civic. They're both great cars.

My ex has a 2003 Mada Protege 5. She hasn't had too many problems with the car and it handles very well. Mind you, hers was made in Japan.

 

The Mazda3 is an excellent car and I believe built in Japan. It is better than the Civic in many ways, but it should depreciate a little faster.

 

I just lemoned my mazda3 2 months ago and bought a s2000, it's a good car for that price if it doesn't break down, some ppl have problems and some don't, i guess it all depends on your luck, you can go to www.mazda3forums.com to check it out.

 

I've driven my ex girlfriends brother's (er ...) Mazda 3 a few times and it was a decent car. I would suggest the new Civic over it though.

 

My friend bought a 3 the first year they were out (2004 MY) and loves the thing. He hasn't had any problems with it and the build-quality and quality of materials used seems top-notch. After test-driving the new Civic though, I prefer the Civic. Both hold value VERY well.

 

My daughter has a Mazda 3 5 door - no problems, and I have driven numerous Mazda 3's at the 2004 Rev it up and Zoom Zoom live. Excellent handling front driver.

The Mazda 3 can be had with a leather interior, I am not sure if the Civic does.

One thing very odd in regards to the Mazda 3, the REAR wheels accumulate brake dust faster than the fronts - very strange.

 

edmunds.com just did a Mazda3 / Civic comparison. I won't reveal the winner, but it wasn't even close

edmunds.com

 

I've been looking at both cars and the way I'd like to equipt them the Mazda would be cheaper to buy. Granted the resale wouldn't be as good but I really like the way it drives. Oddly enough I've found that I really like the Mazda 5 mini Mini Van. It's comfortable, fairly fun to drive, and very useful. The downside is the EPA rates it only City 22 / Hwy 27 and both the 3 and the Civic beat the heck out of that. What I really want to see is the Honda Fit, bring it on Honda!