Other Mazda 3 (2004 - 2008) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I like a car with a bit of power, that's practical and not common like a Focus.

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

    Everybody loves it.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    The MPS beast mine if I win the lottery. My 2 litre version is great for 5 more years. I love this car and I am happy.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Realistically a hybrid. Or a fully electric or hydrogen powered car. I want 200mpg, zero road tax and low insurance! Otherwise I'm not changing.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £7,500

    When did you buy the car?

    April 2010

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Quite pricey but a main dealer is always going to be more than a private sale. I got a good price part exchanging my new shape 3 door Audi A3 that wasn't very reliable. I wanted a sunroof and these are very rare on this model. I received new 3 year warranty for peace of mind.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Wanted a reliable car.

    What was the dealer like?

    Friendly staff, good long test drive and not pushy at all.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It's a dream to drive. Economical around town, even better on the motorway. It has power to pull away from middle-laners. I can't fault it.

    What's it like to park?

    Visibility isn't great, but you get used to it.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    As a 2007 model it has LED lights. A rear bulb went and had to change the whole cluster £300 wear-and-tear, so not warranty! I had a recent Abs traction module fault- this 'common' Mazda fault was covered under warranty... If I had bought the car privately I would have to pay £700-1000 for repairs!

    What's most practical about your car?

    5 door, good load space- like an estate car.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The sunroof Is superb! With the Bose sound system, 6 gears and cruise control, I have everything I have always wanted.