Never buy year 1 of a new model. Never. So, if you cannotmake itthe 2011 model year, buy the 2008 or 09. I have an 07, purchased new, no regrets. The Mazda 3 is a fine engineering output.

 

Welcome Wanter - I have an 08, 3 five door, MT, and am quite pleased with it. My advice is to go ahead and buy the 08! The 09 doesn't have enough changes compared the 08 to notice and you can probably get a better deal on the 08. Besides, who knows if the 2010 will be better. Nissan had a real winner with the 92-93 Sentra SER then blew it with subsequent models. Mazda could screw up too although they always seem to come up with something decent. If you start paying for an 08 now, you could be ahead of the equity curve in 2010 and if the new 3 is something to lust after you'll be in a better position to go for it.
So, buy the 08 NOW! Just one caveat though - stay away from the automatic, it kills the fun.

 

I love My 3. its a 2004 Sedan with a 5 speed, aem intake. 77,000 miles. this car is Fun to drive.

 

I'm going the other way. I was going to trade in my 07 last week for a VW gti and the deal fell through. So I thought why not get a new Mazda 3. But the new model is not out. I dont want the same car and then next year it has a new design.
You will kick yourself next year when your New car is looking ver OLD.
I would wait if you can. But if you need a new car now.... well tough choice
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If you think your car can handle another year and half go for the 2009. Keep in mind that Mazda may not have worked out the bugs if any on the first year model. I would be willing to take the risk. I have a 2004 2.0 and 2008 2.3 both cars run great.

 

ill try to shed some light on this topic as well..

i once too was in the same position.

it was last july and i was shopping for either a wrx or a mazda3.... mazda had the great financing package with a leftover 07 sport hatch that i absoultely love...

check into that too.. see if they have a left over last year model for a hugeeee discounted price

 

I think you should go ahead and buy it! I had been lusting over the Mazda 3 (well, at first I wanted a 6 but changed my mind) for ages, and finally I was able to purchase it about a month ago. I haven't once regretted it. It's an awesome car and you shouldn't put your purchase on hold just 'cause a new model may or not be coming out. Go on and buy it before the opportunity slips away.

 

Ok, so I'm the guy who asked the question. I made a decision finally and here it is......drumroll please.......I ended up buying an 08.5 Mazda 3. I have not one ounce of regret. I am so happy I bought it. It is a copper red value edition (17 inch wheels, moonroof, 6 cd changer. I love it. Thanks for all your support. Hey, in a few years I might get the new model. Thanks again. I'm so excited, I almost want to sleep in my car!

 

did u get the manual transmission?

 

You got the right Color, Congrats [8D]