Young working woman’s view: As a business major it is dollars that make sense and the Mazda is shy in this department especially when compared to the Hyundai Elantra hatchback which has more features, a better warranty, and better overall test crash results. The Mazda certainly has the more potent engine, but you need to rev it to 4500 rpm to get at the power.

This is not unusual in this price range, but when you feature zoom zoom as an advertising motto you are encouraging buyers to use what’s under the hood. And, to be honest, there is less there than I would have thought based on the horsepower rating and I would totally attribute this to the transmission. With the stick shift it would be better in every way.

The Mazda comes well loaded with standard air conditioning, power windows/locks, tilt telescopic steering, single CD player with 6 speakers, a 12-volt power outlet, a tilt-and-telescoping leather steering wheel with audio controls, and no torque steer. The latter is a real treat for women who don’t like the feeling of having the steering wheel twist in their hands every time they press on the accelerator.
 
It is always best to compare a car with others in the same class and there the Mazda comes up against the less expensive Hyundai Elantra, which offers equal cargo capacities, and the higher resale values of the Toyota and the Honda.

What it boils down to is you like dramatic handling, four wheel disc brakes, and a lot of standard features the Mazda 3 may well be your car. If you buy a compact for economy look elsewhere. I think that you need to drive the Mazda 3 first when considering compact cars so you can at least bench mark it suspension and brakes.

And, if you like it we have seen some excellent sale prices on the Mazda 3 that might make it impossible to resist. All in all, if you want a BMWish ride the Mazda is the best choice.
 
Dad’s view: On paper this is Mazda certainly is zoom zoom oriented. With liquid-filled suspension bushings, effective electrohydraulic steering, a multilink rear suspension, a wide, low profile tires make the Mazda 3 an interesting ride for those who like to cut an apex or two.

However, the ride can be rough over untamed roads and the tires and rims are expensive to replace with 17-inch alloy wheels and 50-series tires. You must certainly get the $800(US) option package that includes front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution.