I currently have a 2006 Mazda3 that I bought in new in 12/05. I had only owned Honda vehicles prior to that. It has been as reliable and durable as any of my Hondas and it's a lot more fun to drive.
How much are you planning to spend? The redesigned 2010 model came out a month or so ago, so the 2009 models are being heavily discounted! You could get a 2009 Mazda3 i Touring Value for about $14,500 (5speed, power everything, 17" wheels, cruise, a good CD audio system, ABS, side-impact airbags....loaded, basically)! An automatic would probably cost about $750 more.
