On the positive side, the Mazda 3 is an interesting combination of sporty handling, efficient engine, an abundance of standard features, and a practical interior which makes the Mazda 3 sedan with the 2.3 engine worth considering especially considering that even when heavily optioned it is still realtively inexpensive. Best of all, the Mazda can zip into any sized parking space and gets above average mileage.
I liked the look of the Mazda, but its busy ride, difficult to modulate clutch,and poor stereo weren't to my liking.The stereo isn't up to my standards and the radio reception is mediorcre. I found reading the speedometer very difficult with its small fonts and the unusual position of the numbers. The heater was slow to live up to its name and the air conditioning outlets aren't large enough to move air unless the blower is on high.
Despite these annoyances, I quite enjoyed driving the Mazda 3 I tried and would be delighted to own one.