pocketkiller
10-20-2004, 05:34 PM
I just drove the Mazda 3 hatchback 5 speed 2.3 Liter. This is definitely a great car for anyone who can't quite afford the TSX. It doesn't have as many features, and isn't quite as refined, but boy does it deliver on performance. torquey 2.3 liter engine delivers on demand power above 2500 rpm. The engine feels refined in power delivery too. The 5 speed is short and slick, and the suspension is tight yet compliant...not quite as good as the TSX though. Handles just about as good as the TSX. The interior was stylish, and some materials were great, but others, not so great. You could tell they cheaped out on the interior. You could also tell they put most of the money towards the engineering of the car. The dynamics are fantastic. The steering is tight and has good feel without being bumpy. Also good cargo space when you put the back seats down. I saw the new Mazda 6 hatchback as well, which had generous cargo space, and looks just like the sedan. If I need the hatchback cargo, instead of a trunk, I would buy the M6 hatchback instead of the TSX. Again the materials weren't all great, but there were some good materials like chrome on the shifter etc. But the real winner is the driver. Kudos to mazda for making great affordable cars.
This is like the new Economy level luxury sports sedan.
This is like the new Economy level luxury sports sedan.