Other Mazda 3 (2009 - 2013) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I want it all on a budget.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Great looking car inside and out.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes but definately in the diesel 2.2. I set a budget and stuck to it but wish I'd have splashed out that little bit extra for the diesel.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    A diesel 2 litre +. I'd love a BMW 3 series.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £0

    When did you buy the car?

    September 2009

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes. Tax Free Deal.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    Excellent. Griffin Car Sales. Fantastic service, faultless in every aspect.

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Handles really well. Smooth gear changes. All the gadgets are useful and easy to use whilst driving. The major downfall is that the 1.6 petrol is sluggish and at 75-80 mph sounds like it needs a 6th gear! Also the petrol seems a little thirsty.

    What's it like to park?

    Like a lot of modern cars its impossible to see the front of the bonnet. I did not opt for parking sensors so can be a little tricky at times. Overall average.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Not Yet!

    What's most practical about your car?

    Leather interior is easy to clean and looks great.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Difficult because there are so many which was a major factor in me buying the car but I'd say the Bluetooth handsfree. Its like Kit from Knightrider! The whole interior looks really good with tons of gadgets (cruise control, dual climate control, bluetooth handsfree, multi-cd, mp3 port, rear view mirror that reduces glare from cars behind). Definately worth paying the extra for the leather too as it looks much better than the cloth trim.