Kilometres travelled
50,000 - 75,000 km
Did you buy this car new or used?
New
How much did you pay? (including all on-road costs)
33000
What were your needs when you bought this car? Has it fulfilled those needs?
I had driven a Capella for a few years and was impressed by the reliability, so it was probably going to be a Mazda. I needed something good to spend time in, reliable, fuel efficient and stylish, and I loved the Soul Red colour. It was exciting to consider my first new car (but my fifteenth in total) and the dealer in Napier was great to deal with. There was no pressure, just lots of suggestions and support. It is a very comfortable car to drive and I still love driving those longer distances to Christchurch or Tauranga whenever they occur. It is quiet, has never let me down mechanically and returns 6.2l per 100km. I still like the style and the colour.
What were your initial thoughts about the car? Tell us why it appealed to you.
I was in the market for a new car and did quite a bit of homework to make sure I was making the right decision. The lower driving stance, compared to previous cars, was something I go used to very quickly, as were the various cabin features. I loved being in it and driving it from the first day and that has not changed after 65,000 km and almost eight years ownership.
What have you discovered since owning the car?
It is very fuel efficient and comfortable. The features all work fine as they did on day one of ownership. The interior has worn very well. I had to get a new battery this year after the I-STOP stopped working but all is well again. As a driver's car it hits all the buttons, with a good turn of speed when needed in overtaking and on the hills.
What do you like/dislike about the car?
I still like the styling, the colour, the economy, the drivability and the overall feel of the car. There is nothing I dislike.
Any other comments on the car?
I have taken three friends on advice and/or test drives of my car and two of them have subsequently bought a Mazda 3.
Reliability
5
Features/technology
5
Performance/economy
5
Value for money
5
Overall rating
5
Lastly, would you buy this vehicle again?
No
Why would/wouldn't you buy it again?
Saying all this, I would probably not buy another Mazda 3 as I am getting older (69) and would consider a slightly higher car for easier entry and exit. I would certainly buy a Mazda CX-30 however, when the time comes for an upgrade, as the next best thing. While my knees keep working though, I will keep driving and enjoying my Soul Red Mazda 3.