My girl is looking for a new car and after internet shopping it looks like we are leaning towards a '12 Mazdaspeed3 in white.

Any prior owners, thoughts... suggestions..

Basically I can get the car for 21,700 which includes the destination and delivery charge.

For around 22 it seems to be a good deal for the money. Others considered, focus ST, BRZ, FRS, and '12 lancer SE awd. The first 3 are all going to run several thousand more due to new release... msrp on the ms3 is 24995 + 795 destination/delivery..

Thanks for input..

 

Haven't owned a '12, but did have an '09 for 3 years. Loved the car, it was solid and reliable, even heavily modified. They are also relatively easy to work on too, depending on what exactly you're fixing. Insurance rates also weren't too shabby either, definitely a bit cheaper than a Lancer. It also handled quite well for being a turbo'd FWD.

 

Well, I got 2010 Speed3. 22 grand with Tech package or without? It sounds reasonable anyways. From all the cars you mentioned I would definitely take Speed3 but it might be just me. I really like this car, no problems so far. Pretty good performance and handling out of the box, nice interior. I don't know what her priorities are. If you have any questions ask, I'll be glad to help out.

 

Good friend has a speed 3 and absolutely loves it! He has the previous body style but I'm sure engine and drivetrain are the same

 

Pretty much identical, save for some suspension tweaks and a different ECU configuration IIRC.

 

I've driven a 2011 w/ tech package... giggles galore! It's a heck of a fun car to drive... won't be disappointed and gets way higher than the 25mpg highway rating states