i like both and b/c my brother works at a ford dealership i could get a focus at a little cheaper price which do you think is the better choice...or any other suggestions
Ford owns a good part of Mazda. Isn't the Mazda 3 a Focus with different skin? Always found Ford retained a better resale value than Mazda tho Mazda's always cost more new.
For example; both are built on the same assembly line:
Ranger & Mazda truck
Escape & Mazda's SUV
Mechanically, these are the same car. The drive train was a Ford/Mazda joint design as until recently Ford owned almost half of Mazda. Many of the parts are exactly the same.
And the new Focus is quite a nice car. I have an 04 Focus and am very happy with it. And they are just as reliable as the Mazda.
If you can get a deal on the Focus, go for it. Support you brother's job while you're at it.