Looking to buy the 2014 mazda 3. Is it worth it?

[ElidiaRJohnson]

Hi guys. First post here and I was wondering if the 2014 mazda 3 was a worth while investment. Ive test driven the i touring 5 door model with the tech package and really liked it.

Im not a very fast driver, i would like to have a fuel efficient car (but not sure about a hybrid) and i really enjoy a nice interior (lovin the 2014 mazda 3's).

Anyways Im just looking for some opinions.

 

[concept]

The Mazda 3 has always been a very reliable car and one of the best handling cars, as well. Our Protg has been stellar in both these regards and I expect our new Mazda 3 to follow in its footsteps. Consumer Reports obtained 45 MPG on the highway in a Mazda 3i. This number is actually higher than that of many diesel cars, which require expensive diesel fuel vs the 3's regular fuel requirement. I opted for the 3S for its extra torque, but if that extra punchy acceleration is not a priority for you, the I model with tech package should be an ideal vehicle for you. I had a chance to sample the radar cruise, today and it works, perfectly. If a slower car gets in front of you, your 3 will slow down to match the speed of that car. If you change to an open lane, your car will speed up to the preset cruising speed. The number of car lengths between you can the car in front of you is configurable from 1 to 4 car lengths.
The blind spot monitoring feature is active when your turn signals are on, so you are not annoyed by beeping, every time a car enters your blind spot.
Of course, there're lots of other features that were typically offered in only high-end vehicles. You will enjoy your Mazda.(yes)

 

[ceric]

If acceleration is not a priority for you, i models should be sufficient for you.
The fuel efficiency difference between an i model and s model is bigger than what the EPA ratings indicate.
For example, @60mph, my sGT gets 40mpg on highways, while my friend's i-touring can achieve 46mpg.

 

[nychotxxx]

I just got an I touring manual hatch with tech pkg and heated seats. Great, great vehicle.

 

[lowincash]

If you love the car then it's a worthwhile investment I've had this car for over 10 months now and still enjoy it and still look forward to driving it every day. Always taking the long way home.

That said, if you want fuel efficient you should stick with the 2.0 model. I have the 2.5 and only average about 25-27 mpg with mixed freeway and city driving. I do live on a hill and there's a lot of hills in my area and usually go a bit above speed limit on the freeway and short trips take a toll on the mpg. However, if I'm driving the speed limit on the freeway and no traffic I did get around 39mpg according to the trip computer. I do envy those that get above 30mpg with their 2.5 lol

 

[EviLMaN]

i had a 2003 mazda protege5 and i loved it. i traded it in for a 2014 itouring hatch 6spd. (no tech package) i love it. it has a nice ride. the base sound system works awesome and sounds good. great gas mileage. i fell in love with it when i test drove it. the one thing is road noise, its not to bad (just turn the radio volume up) but when i change the tires out ill put some nice michilens on