Other Mazda 3 (2009 - 2013) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Rare jap super-hatch enthusiast.

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

    Everyone loves it. Very impressed with amount of kit for the money.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Of course!

    What are you likely to buy next?

    S3, MK7 GTI, possibly the 2015 Type-R when its released...

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £9,990

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2014

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I think so, although I didn't bother to haggle as car was immaculate, and car still had almost 12 month extended warrantee.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Was perfect in every manner - full service history, best colour, immaculate outside and inside. Best presented one I'd seen (and I'd been looking relentlessly for around 12 months).

    What was the dealer like?

    Private Sale.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Brilliant in practically every way. Handles very well, very good grip, rapid acceleration. Only torque steers very slightly (unlike main reviews state!).

    What's it like to park?

    Easy, although quite long bonnet! Parking sensors ease things as well as very good mirrors and all round visibility.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Only fault I have had was the battery not holding its charge, easily rectified with new battery.

    What's most practical about your car?

    5 doors unlike some other hot hatches, decent boot, good space for all passengers.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Bose Stereo.