Hello all! This is my first time visiting these forums, although I've been browsing and reading a lot.

I come from the Subaru world, but I'm looking at selling my 2002 2.5RS to get a more practical car. From what I've read, the Mazda3 seems like a good fit in both price and performance, and it has more creature comforts than my Subie does, albeit at a little lower power.

I know you guys might be a little biased to the 3 , but can you guys offer any insight into common problems I should look out for in the 2005 models? (specifically, I'm looking at '05 2.3 liter hatchbacks). Are there any concerns or recalls I should be informed about? Any negative comments at all?

Thus far, I've heard of one recall for that year. I've also heard of a common problem with gas mileage, and gettin sub-par fuel economy (I've heard stories of 20MPG highway, etc.)

It's going to take a lot of courage to drop my Subie, but I think the 3 might be enough of a unique and reliable car to do it!

Honest opinions appreciated Thanks guys!

And here's a picture of my Impreza, just if anyone is interested.

 

If you want better fuel economy, get a 3 that has the 2.0 engine, it gets markedly better fuel economy than the 2.3. Not sure if you can get a hatchback with a 2.0.

The 3was first introduced in 2004, my take is it has gottenprogressively better with each model year. I would aim to get either a 2006 or a 2007.

Some people complain the AC is not strong, especially in the 04s. I have not owned mine through a full summer yet, but so far my AC is very effective. If you live where the heat is intense (Texas, Florida, Arizona, Nevada, SoCal, etc), or you like to ride around in an icebox, you would want to do some research on the AC.

I am pleased with my '07, zero mechanical issues in my first 5 months of ownership.

 

Iown a 04 2.0L Sedan. I get great gas mileage in my 2.0L...I average 28mpg. I have 64k on my car and have had no mechanical issues. Something thatI was worried about with buying a new production car. So Mazda and the 3 have scored a huge thumbs up in my book. I highly recommend this car.....ohh and yeah i live in LasVegas, NV....and the a/c sucks in my 04...LOL.

 

52,000 trouble free miles on my 3i..I average 29 mpg and have gotten up to 35 all highway. (you can only get the 2.0L in the sedan in North America)

It's for sale right now......12,500 or best....



[IMG]local://upfiles/2513/76B2D83514E6407690C127318E71C051.jpg[/IMG]

 

12500 w/out AC!! I walked out with a comfortably loaded 3i touring for 15,500. I think the paint is kinda weak on the side mirrors though. And I have a deep down regret for not getting a 2.3. I love my 3, but the stuff I'm buying after market I could have had with up front purchasse, even though I'm prob saving 2-3k or more.

 

Not sure what you're talking about...my car has AC

 

Thanks for the replies guys!

I do think the 2.3 will be sufficient, as long as I can eek out decent gas mileage. Anything at this point would be better, as I'm averaging about 17-18 MPG in my Impreza (lots of city driving to and from work.)

I intend to test-drive one here soon! As for aftermarket, I don't see myself doing much of anything, which is why I really need a peppy car straight outta the box. I've grown tired of modifying cars (as I always run into more problems than it's worth), and with this Mazda, the most I'd do would be a little bit of suspension work, along with a nice set of rims/tires. Very basic, and enough to keep me happy.

Any more comments on your choice of car would be fantastic! I'd also love to know what previous cars you guys have owned.