is the mazdaspeed tech package really worth it?

[coololddude]

No.

 

[JrTekSilverP5]

Why? Are you thinking about putting speakers there? There isn't much point, really. The main things to be concerned with are the front door speakers/components and maybe a sub. Bose is just playing the numbers game. The average person has no clue about stereo systems. They see more speakers and think better. They see more watts and think better. That's not necessarily the case. The Bose system is mostly junk. I suggest you listen to it for a while first. To me, the biggest benefit of the tech package is keyless ignition, followed by nav, perimeter alarm, and Sirius.

I know more isnt always better... speakers or wattage... i would like to just have the optional spots... and yeah i really like the keyless ignition too...

 

[Derrick_B]

I know more isnt always better... speakers or wattage... i would like to just have the optional spots... and yeah i really like the keyless ignition too...

I know that there are tweeters in the non-Bose (tweeters, front woofers, rear woofers for a total of 6 speakers). The Bose system adds two small (3", I think) C-pillar speakers that you'll never hear in the front seats, a center channel that I don't even think is active unless you're using Centerpoint (which sounds aweful), and a 5" "subwoofer" in the spare tire. I don't know if the non-Bose has mounts for the C-piller speakers or center channel, but that's all you'd be gaining. I'm not saying the tech package isn't worth it, but its value has little to do with the Bose system. Lol.

 

[kushp777]

i love my tech package/ The bose is ok...id agree it there are better things out there, but i would not say its garbage by any means. Nav may be small, but it has been useful for me. Visiting cities i dont know much about, it is nice to be able to look up where the nearest park, mall, hotel, golf course, atm, and gas statiosn are...as well as many other things. the key system is great. the key never leaves my pocket wheather its unlocking/locking the doors, starting the car, or opening the trunk. call it lazy but its convient and quick!

 

[Stavesacre21]

Sounds like i'm gonna be goin against the grain here, but with it being the ONLY option you can check off on the car, i've been happy with it.

Those slamming the Bose system haven't obviously had many other FACTORY bose systems before. I owned an RX-8 AND MS6 that both had one, and neither of them sounded as good. MUCH more power down low (which alone is impressive for Bose). It's not gonna rattle any neighborhood windows, but it's one of the best factory systems i've heard (Second to maybe the Mach460). Could have to do with the Sub in floor of the back, but I like the sound.

As for the Nav...err....it's ok in a jam. I'd still prefer to use my Garmin if given the chance, but having it there just incase you need is has come in handy almost a 1/2 dozen times already. It's not too high on the "bling" factor like the pop-up screens on the RX8 and MS6, but it gets the job done. When it goes into "night" mode to take a lot of the glare off, it gets very difficult to read road names. I'm only 27, so it's not like i need bi-focals either.

The keyless is nice, although IMO they shoulda did the credit-card sized deal (such as the MS6 GT did). It's MUCH nicer to not have any keys at all then carry the one around and not have to actually use it. IMO, it kinda defeats the purpose. It has to come with you and you have to carry it, so why again is it even keyless?

I've used the bluetooth a good number of times too, it's been pretty nice. Playing music through your phone to the stereo is really nice if you've got nothing with you to play.

All said and done, if you're looking at buying a car for $24K anyway, I think the addition of the only option offered is worth it IMO.

$24K VS. $25.8K - you're looking at a 6% difference in price on a $24K car. To me, having everything it offers for that price is more then worth it.

Now when you get to most cars and there is a 15-30% difference, that's when you should be tightening it up.

Biggest application that was ommitted from the car (beit tech package or not) - HIDs! Easily remedied with some DDMs that took all of 10 minutes to install, but still...SHOULD HAVE BEEN FACTORY or at least had the option!

Yea, I got it, and I'd do it again.

 

[NathanR]

I stated my reasons already, but here is one VERY important one from a different angle:

Keyless entry / start
When the zombies attack, you'll be thankful that you didn't have to hunt around your pockets for the keys. THEN run the risk of dropping them on the ground when you finally go to unlock/start your car. Just leave them puppies right in yer pocket...push two buttons and your away!

 

[nadim]

i just noticed yesterday in my nav screen that there is a small dot like of vapor inside the screen dunno where it should from what could be...

 

[JrTekSilverP5]

i stated my reasons already, but here is one very important one from a different angle:

keyless entry / start
when the zombies attack, you'll be thankful that you didn't have to hunt around your pockets for the keys. Then run the risk of dropping them on the ground when you finally go to unlock/start your car. Just leave them puppies right in yer pocket...push two buttons and your away!

great point!!! Its final!!! Push button start for me!!!

 

[MSP1524]

I like mine! The navi works good and I like the fact that it's integrated in the interior. Don't like the look of an aftermarket navi stuck to the dashboard or window. The keyless entry is sweet. It's especially nice to see on a car at this price point(thumb). And the Bose system sounds fine. I've given up trying to get great sound in a car. It's just too hostile an environment for high fidelity.Just my 2cents.(cheers2). Love the push-button start!

 

[Stavesacre21]

i just noticed yesterday in my nav screen that there is a small dot like of vapor inside the screen dunno where it should from what could be...

At times like these, ya just gotta love factory warranties (drinks)

 

[CorkSport]

I stated my reasons already, but here is one VERY important one from a different angle:

Keyless entry / start
When the zombies attack, you'll be thankful that you didn't have to hunt around your pockets for the keys. THEN run the risk of dropping them on the ground when you finally go to unlock/start your car. Just leave them puppies right in yer pocket...push two buttons and your away!

I forgot about the zombie attack benefit of the keyless starting.

 

[mazdame3]

I've got the 10 speaker bose in my 3 and I think its awesome for factory sound, my Jetta monsoon system dose'nt come close and all the other factory sound packages that I have heard in this class are lame...just listen and let your own ears be the judge...everybodys sound palet is different.

 

[slashsnake]

If they had just the keyless push button, as an option I would have thought about it. So not needed, but so cool. Didn't need the nav at all and I'll put in the stereo I want if I am going to pay for it. Just me though...

 

[ASmitty]

I love the tech package. The keyless fob being the best part. Is the stereo the best thing ever? no. But its clear, and can get loud without vibrating the entire car. The nav system is better than nothing, its useful at times, not so useful at others.

 

[Circle9]

I think its worth it, but then again, I got mine for free The Bose system can get very loud, but stays clear.

 

[JTMS3]

Worth it!

 

[LOPEZ]

I like it, I also have a 2008 CX-9 GT but this 2010 MS3 GT Tech package is a lot better.
(hi)

 

[Shoota]

I don't think you get a choice in Canada - pretty sure they all have the tech package and it costs $33k before tax.

I really like the keyless, the sat nav is handy (although it can't even find its way out of my neighbourhood) and the audio is alright. I would still go for it though.

 

[coololddude]

Three possible answers: NO, No, and no.

 

[Stavesacre21]

I don't think you get a choice in Canada - pretty sure they all have the tech package and it costs $33k before tax.

I really like the keyless, the sat nav is handy (although it can't even find its way out of my neighbourhood) and the audio is alright. I would still go for it though.

And most unfair of all...stock HIDs and Pearl white paint. Go Canada.