Other Mazda 3 (2004 - 2008) models:

  • Summary

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What does this car say about you?

    That you want to own the fastest hot hatch in a straight line.

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

    Different

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    No Because of the poor handling on the B roads. And the Tax is as high as a Lambo

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Maybe a Lotus Exige, Ford Focus RS or the Renault R26R

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £17,000

    When did you buy the car?

    November 2007

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I got £1000 off due to it having 1000 miles on the clock, i should of tried for more money off but never mind.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    Very good

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Best motorway car in its class by miles. I Drive the car cross country on a regular basis and its great if your in tight corners at lowish speeds up to say max in third, but open it up and try to do the same on long open corners and you feel like you have no conection to the road through the steering. You turn a little and nothing seems to happen and then you turn a little more and the car seems to lurch a bit and it makes you feel like your going to lose it not very confidence inspiring. Around town i think its fine although the steering circle is not to good. The Power is always there and its amazing when you open the car up how tourque and power hit youyou will put shame to VXR's, ST, and some Imprezas no problem in a straight line.

    What's it like to park?

    I find the car to be ok parking only bad point...That tight turning circle.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Engine managment light has been off and on since i bought it, im told Faulty inlet manifold and the odd sensor have had all replaced under waranty. Faulty Electrics: All the Windows sometimes open fully on there own also had problems with the central locking not opening and steering wheel Audio unit controls have a mind of there own.

    What's most practical about your car?

    The Space the car has, I sometimes use it for mountain bike and camping gear with the seats down theres loads of space.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Bose Sound system