I'm trying to replace my '06 R53 mini (very unreliable but super fun). The Mazda dealer may have just made that easier or harder I'm not sure.

The 2016 Miata so far is the only car I've tested that is more fun then the mini (including new mini's). I love it, I can afford it but not sure I can live with it as an only car and can't justify two cars right now. I don't think I could get: me, my dog and our stuff in it to visit family for the holidays as an example

The 3 hatch is leading the non-sports car race. I tested a loaded 2016 2.5l manual 3 and it was great but if I had both it and the old mini in my driveway I'd grab the keys to the mini. (Then I'd climb in the 3 if the mini didn't start) so it's really hard to trade the mini for a less fun car... So that's my main Mazda dilemma.

What can anybody tell me about living with these cars. Are they well made and reliable? I have a bad opinion about Mazda quality but ford pops up in every example that comes to mind. E.g. My brothers mx6 had the "ford valve tick" at 6k mi.
I was a worried by some severe wind whistle coming in on the highway in the 3 test drive. Could be the door/window wasn't shut well or the door seals are bad. It was a very windy day and it was only on the return trip.

The frs/brz and wrx are still high in the running. They're more fun then the 3 but more expensive and are much more thirsty according to epa.

 

Maybe new members wasn't the place to ask

 

The subbie's are great choices all on their own. From what I've experienced and read from other's experiences, Mazda's are a bit loud on the road (I know mine is) my Protege is also the most enjoyable vehicle that I've ever owned, though, and if you turn up the music you can't hear the road anyway I think you would find that the acceleration and handling provided by Mazda engineering will help ease the transition from your Mini. That being said, I'd jump in a BRZ faster than the door could open!

 

Thanks luckodirish. I appreciate that you actually responded. These are Not exactly talkitive forums.

I test drove the 2016 civic and it could beat out the 3. The issue is only sedans and CVTs are available right now. Coupe, si, type R and maybe a hatch are coming in March. I think a new civic with a stick could dethrone the 3 for fun to drive small car. Plus the civic interior is a bit better. I really have liked the Digital gauges in a number of new cars and found the 3 lacking. I want to like the HUD in the 3 but it messed with my eyes.

 

I hear ya. I've noticed that too. I have to admit that those HUDs do make me giddy in my nethers(Its fancy and you don't have to ever take your eyes off the road) but I can see why it would be a turn off. Unlike most people, I actually think that Hondas are great vehicles, they run forever and I've never experienced any kind of engine failure in a well maintained Honda. Wait for the Type R! That thing is a Beast!!