New Member- buying a 3

[X-ray]

hello,
i just signed up a a new member as this place looks like a pretty helpful community with lots of info.

I will be buying a Mazda 3 in the next few weeks and I have narrowed my search so far to this criteria:
Must HAVE:
5 Door hatch
auto Trans
less than 35K miles
2006 or newer
Dark color- (tired of my last vehicle color Silver)

Preferences but not deal breakers: leather, sunroof

I am trying to get a better understanding of of the models/ features/engines/ packages so I get just what I want and pay a fair price.
Budget is not the problem, I can afford a new one but prefer not to take the devaluation the minute I roll out the door.
plus I'm not sure I like the look of the 2010.

1)Is there a place where I can find details of the package/ feature options for the model years 05-09?

2) are there certain years or models with known issues that are better avoided?

3) any other helpful hints.

I appreciate all replies. Thanks

 

[jam_asian85]

Get CWP!

 

[skylar2ups]

Have you actually sat in a Mazda3 with leather? It's kind of hard.
There isn't really that many differences 08.5 models have a piano black trim inside.
The 09 model has a trunk release button on the key fob. (Sedans only)
06 Mazda3's can be programed with a Mazda MX-5 key it's the switch-blade looking key fob that the unlock button and so on is all built in.
And then there are minor details like the fog light housing and so one has changed.

 

[X-ray]

Get CWP!

what is CWP?

 

[X-ray]

Have you actually sat in a Mazda3 with leather? It's kind of hard.
There isn't really that many differences 08.5 models have a piano black trim inside.
The 09 model has a trunk release button on the key fob. (Sedans only)
06 Mazda3's can be programed with a Mazda MX-5 key it's the switch-blade looking key fob that the unlock button and so on is all built in.
And then there are minor details like the fog light housing and so one has changed.

thanks,
I was abler to find some old brochures online and have most of it figured out.
I did sit on a leather seat for a 2006, it was not the best leather. I think I would go either way on that feature.

 

[skylar2ups]

Oh and if you buy a 2007 that isn't a Grand Touring you can unlock the trip computer, it's a fun little easter egg.

In case you, or anyone, needs the URL. http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123660911&highlight=Trip+Computer

 

[jam_asian85]

what is CWP?

Crystal White Pearl.

 

[amilix]

try the mazdausa website. http://www.mazdausa.com and search certified pre-owned. the search results will give you a link for the vehicle details of that specific car.

 

[Zoomzoom17]

I love my non-leather seats. Suggestion. Goi with a hatch/speed3. I didn't get either and regret them both.

 

[amilix]

i'm just venting off here. i bought the mazda3 AT so my wife can also drive it. i enjoy my mazda3 but has regrets that i didn't buy the MT. really, when i have my 3 serviced at the dealer, i die a little every time i get inside the MT 3 display car.

2cents.

 

[sunrun176]

Welcome to the forums! As you can see, we try to be helpful.

 

[X-ray]

thanks everyone for the help. getting closer on the search. 2007 or newer, probably black, I would love the speed 3 but I want to keep my license and I think I'd get tired of shifting in stop and go traffic all the time. I will most certainly unlock the trip computer. thanks for the tip.

 

[Speedkid]

Welcome to the forums.

 

[Akaveli]

Welcome.

 

[X-ray]

found the car. will get it Weds or Thurs. I'm psyched. 2008, Black with Black cloth interior. 25K miles one owner. clean as a whistle. Looking forward to making it mine.
think I'll build a nice stereo first. I owned a high end custom electronics shop for 10 years so I'm looking forward to doing something nice for myself. enjoying the forum and appreciate the insights.