Mazda 3 Saloon (2004 - 2008) 2.0 Sport 4d (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I'm somebody who likes reliability, not badge snobbery of the less than reliable larger makes. So the Mazda3 Sport is reliable and a better all round choice than more expensive garage visitors like BMW and Land Rover, etc. Just look at the JD Power surveys to see that.

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

They all comment on the fact it is eight years old and still runs, looks good and is as reliable as the first day I bought it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

The model I have has now been superseded by a new one and so my interest is in the Mazda CX-5 Sport as a replacement.

What are you likely to buy next?

Mazda CX-5 AWD diesel 2.2 Sport.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£8,950

When did you buy the car?

June 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

Got it £2,000 cheaper in Leeds than it would have cost me in Aberdeen for same make and model.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Liked the look, liked the reliability, prefered it to the hatchback. Like the spec for the price.

What was the dealer like?

Excellent all round service.

What's it like to drive?

It's a delight to drive, sharing the same chassis and underpinnings as the Ford Focus Sport. Reasonable on petrol use and quick when needed.

What's it like to park?

Simple with smooth power steering output and good all-round visibility.

Have you had any problems with the car?

It will be eight years old in June this year and nothing has gone wrong. Services and MOT has been the only time it has required visits to a garage.

What's most practical about your car?

Four doors means easy access, comfortable to drive, seats five adults reasonably well. Has good storage available with large glovebox, cupholders and central arm storage box.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Like the auto lights and wipers - only thing I would have liked a bit more is a leather option for the interior.