Mazda 3 Hatchback (2009 - 2013) 1.6 Takuya 5d (2011/11) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I want a good car but spent the time to look past a golf or focus.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Not sure what to make of it, many assume it was expensive, some assume its a hot hatch (the takuya has a spoiler, upgraded bumpers, side skirts, and led rear lights) all are very complimentary.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, although would test drive the bigger petrol option or the diesel to see if they were worth the upgrade.
What are you likely to buy next?
Probably a new 3 when they drop into range.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£9,200
When did you buy the car?
August 2014
Did you get a good deal and why?
Not sure, seen them cheaper but mines mazda approved used so has 12 months Mazda warranty, also is in very nice conditions.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Had all the things I was looking for in a car for reasonable price.
What was the dealer like?
Good, car was delivered immaculate and the installation of the rear parking sensors I requested is spot on.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Excellent to drive, gearbox, brakes, steering all feel beautifully engineered and responsive. It's fun to drive when you want it to be and the right sort of dull (i.e. solid, comfortable.) when you don't. The 1.6 petrol isn't a ball of fire but entirely fine for cruising at 70mph on the cruise control and enough power to never feel really slow. If you like to cruise at 85-90mph or travel fully laden a lot buy a bigger engined one.
What's it like to park?
Felt very large initially, hard to judge where the nose is until you get used to it, rear parking sensors felt necessary as the sports rear bumper sticks out about 6 inches from under the rear door.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
A few small rattles other than that no.
What's most practical about your car?
It's a good size, even though the boot is not huge is a good shape, you can fit 4 easily as well.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Lots to choose from either the Climate Control/Heater which is excellent or the Heated Sports seats.
