Other Mazda 3 (2009 - 2013) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    A metallic grey hatchback does not shout about itself so maybe I like the low profile. It is quite potent so maybe a wolf in sheep's clothing might be a fair description.

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

    All who have travelled in it are complimentary. Most are surprised by its performance/economy combination.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes I anticipate buying another Mazda next time.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Another diesel Mazda. The 2.2 diesel Mazda 6 looks interesting again with the sporty engine.

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £13,450

    When did you buy the car?

    February 2014

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes probably because I bought just before the new plate came out and I pushed them hard on price.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Wanted an economical yet sporty car that was well equipped and reliable.

    What was the dealer like?

    Typical in so much as they tried to sell you all the extras. In the end I got a good deal but we both had to work hard to get there. I did actually walk out of the showroom on my first visit as the salesman kept me waiting some 20 mins longer than he said he would .

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Very fast indeed. I have put a tuning box on the car and it has circa 225bhp. This has also significantly increased the torque and it's mid range acceleration is devastating. Only thing to point out is that road noise suppression is not great if the road surface is concrete. Generally the ride is firm but acceptable for such a quick car.

    What's it like to park?

    Easy and it has rear parking sensors.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Fault free so far.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Fully equipped with just about everything you might want, lights, wipers are automatic. Best feature for me is the fuel economy.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?