Other Mazda 3 (2013 - 2019) models:

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I would like to think it indicates I prefer a reliable and safe car which also gives driving pleasure not only to me but to my passengers.

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

    Very impressed with the style and shape and the quiet running of the engine.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, for all the features mentioned previously. I have owned several different makes of car and the previous car was the most reliable of them all. If this car continues in the same vein, I will be a very happy man.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    This may be my last buy depending on how reliable it becomes. It is, at the moment, the best car I've ever owned.

  • 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?

    £15,800

    When did you buy the car?

    September 2014

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I feel I got a reasonable deal and was happy with the way the deal went.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Having had a Mazda3 from 2007 without any reliability problems and after seeing and test driving the new model I decided to trade my car in for the new one.

    What was the dealer like?

    Very good, I understood he had to reach a certain deal, and was aware I was after much the same thing!. After a while we came to a deal where both parties were satisfied. I understand he most likely benefited more from the deal than myself but I was happy enough with the way things turned out.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    A breeze to drive, the steering is positive, acceleration when needed is very good. Independent suspension is very good once you get used to it, but the drive is most enjoyable to the extent every time I park up after a trip anywhere, I can't waitto get behind the wheel again!.

    What's it like to park?

    No problem with use of the rear sensors and both mirrors giving good visuals.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    No

    What's most practical about your car?

    Slightly larger in the cabin than my last car and still manages 3 sets of golf clubs plus 3 occupants without a problem. I also like the 2ltr engine which is ideal for quick and safe overtaking. The all round vision is good although the mirrors could have been positioned better but are not a major problem.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    I like the Stop Start function, the tyre pressure warning, in fact there are too many to select a favourite, I like most things with the new car, compared to my last car, the new technology appears worlds apart. Still a few things to get my head round but the car is amazing. I also like the daylight running lights and the folding mirrors.