Mazda 3 Hatchback (2004 - 2008) 2.0 Sport 5d (06) (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It looks smart and modern, so hopefully it says the same about me?

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My friends and family think it looks great in metallic Winning Blue and the sporty bodykit, and my petrolhead friends appreciate how left-field it is (as opposed to the common Golfs, Focus, Civics, etc) and think it is the best-looking hatchback of its generation. It often gets confused for sportier cars like an Impreza STI hatchback or wagon.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would buy another one - it's a great all-rounder that is fun to drive and is also hugely practical. However, I would consider a Mazda3 MPS instead of the Sport, finances allowing.

What are you likely to buy next?

I'd strongly consider a Mazda3 MPS or Mazda6 MPS - more of the same, but with added turbochargers!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£5,500

When did you buy the car?

August 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

I wouldn't say it was a particularly great deal and there was no movement on price. However, the car came with very low miles for a 2006 - 35,000 - so I can't complain too much.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I wanted to upgrade from my Seat Ibiza 1.2 and was looking for a car that was reliable, reasonably good looking, practical and fun to drive. The 3 Sport ticked all these boxes.

What was the dealer like?

No different to most used car dealers. Reasonably friendly and knowledgeable. Called my existing car a "crap heap" and refused to P/X it - credit where credit is due, at least he said it how it is!

What's it like to drive?

Really awesome to drive. The handling is great and the exhaust sounds fruity and even pops when the car is nicely warmed up. Braking and steering are great, full of feel. The car is reasonably fast. I've had loads of fun on mountain roads and on-track, and the car is really well-behaved in traffic. The suspension and brakes are fine and comfortable in town, too.

What's it like to park?

My car has rear parking sensors, so it is very easy to park. The mirrors are electric, so they can be adjusted to aid visibility during parking manoeuvres quickly and easily.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing has gone wrong with the car yet. I've driven it regularly for nearly two years and it hasn't missed a beat. I've only changed the tires once (I bought it with the original factory tires still equipped), the brakes (after a trackday) and the battery.

What's most practical about your car?

I've moved house with it many times and have done many airport runs. I'd say its most practical feature is how spacious it is.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

I can't choose. The 'Sport' trim comes with loads of great equipment as standard, including xenon lights (makes it look so modern!), automatic lights and wipers, 6-CD changer, steering wheel mounted controls, etc.