Other Mazda 3 (2009 - 2013) models:

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Younger, stylish, likes something a bit different from the norm.

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

    All like it, including g/friends parents who have v high standards.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    No. Hoping this will last me a few years before getting a larger car for family.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Very impressed with value for money with Mazda, so either Mazda 6 Estate or Skoda Octavia Estate.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £9,000

    When did you buy the car?

    April 2014

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes - on negotiation all alloys reconditioned and taken to the body shop to remove 2 scratches. V Recently fitted tyres + Extended warranty.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Felt that Mazda 3 offered more in terms of features + safety than competitors for price. Good looking care and rarer on the road than others considered. Good price for a car with very low mileage, full franchised service history.

    What was the dealer like?

    Friendly, would use again.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Fun. Handles very well and is a very enjoyable car to drive. Had to settle for the slower petrol due to cost but still feels has a bit of go when needed. Road noise on some motorway surfaces is loud. 2.0l petrol is quite thirsty (32mpg av over a variety of journeys) particularly without the I-stop.

    What's it like to park?

    Very easy, assisted by rear parking sensors.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Yes - I-stop. Stalled on attempting to re-start at the lights on the second ever use. From reading online it appears this is a fairly common failing with the car, which is usually sorted by replacing the I-stop battery. Will be pushing for this to be done under the warranty. Nothing else an issue.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Very comfy. Boot space smaller than rivals. Suits our current needs perfectly (no family, live in city).

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Bose sound system + sub woofer. No distortion eve at high volumes. Cruise control. Easy wireless connection to phone for music and phone use.