Ever since I noticed the 3 a few months ago, just after my '91 Caddy died, I've kinda been smitten with this car. I did the sensible thing and checked out the usual competitors, but after testing the 3s, it really was no contest. I live in NYC so I went to the Auto Show (twice!) basically to see the Mazda3. So this week I'll be hitting the car market in earnest looking for a my Titanium Gray 3s with ABS and a spoiler. Unfortunately, I never learned to drive a stick so I guess it will have to be an automatic . ( I even called about 7 auto schools looking for one I could learn a manual on, but no luck) Anyway, I hope to join all of you as an owner soon. Can't wait!