Fun, Sporty, Versatile, Daily Commuter

Member5959

I have been considering down-sizing from my Subaru Outback and have been eyeing the 2014 Mazda 3. I need some cargo capacity and versatility, thus the reason I am only considering a hatch. While it will primarily be my daily commuter, I may also be taking it on some road trips and some runs to Lowe's and Home Depot. I also need the ability to carry my kayaks on the roof and will use a bike carrier on the back. The gas savings is a big draw for me as well. I want something fun andsporty with good fuel economy and decent cargo space. I do also like the Nissan Juke but fear the cargo capacity may be too small for me and the use of Premium gas takes away some of the gas savings.

Preferred Bodystyle(s): Hatch

Car Needs: Daily commuter / Errands about town / Long trips

Primary Driver(s): Senior driver

Need minimum of 4 seats

Will consider new cars only

Maximum price: US $ 25000

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I have a 2011 3 hatch. It loses on fuel economy big time (but I understand the '14s are MUCH better). It doesn't have quite as much cargo space asI had hoped, mostly because of shape/styling, but it's still a lot more than an equivalent compact sedan would have. So much fun to drive, and has been completely reliable for me (28K miles with zero non-routine maintenance trips).

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The 2014 Mazda3 is very economical. Even with the s (the one I'd want, stronger engine and more attractive wheels) the trip computer reported averages in the 30s the week I had one (review here). Ride quality is a potential downside, at least with the s.

Have you checked to see what sorts of racks are available for it?

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I have an 11' Fiesta and the mpg is great but a little small, I was thinking of the newer Mazda 3 or Ford Focus. Both are great looking cars, I think I will pick the one with the better reliability. Ford hasnt backed up thier Fiesta much for me.

Mazda has really done a good job on thier mpg in the last few years & the car has always looked nice.

Winter tires will make it just as good as the Outback in winter.

Check out Mini Cooper Countryman, but dont get the auto.

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