Small SUV

You have already driven what many (including myself) consider to be the best small hatchback- the Mazda3. Did you drive the 'i' or 's' model? I'm assuming it was one of the Grand Touring models that you drove. They are the top-of-the-line trim level, the 'i' has the 2.0L engine and 16" wheels while the 's' has the 2.5L engine and 18" wheels (among other minor feature differences). I would highly recommend the 's' Grand Touring 5-door as the one to buy. It's fast, fun, economical, reliable and it has a great audio and nav layout. I've held onto my '06 Mazda3 for 10 years and still love it!

I would advise against the Buick Encore because it is underpowered and overpriced compared to the competition. The fuel economy is also unimpressive and the long-term reliability is questionable, at best.

If you want to consider alternatives to the Mazda3, the Mazda CX-3 and CX-5 (subcompact and compact SUVs) are also very good vehicles. Another excellent small hatchback is the Honda Fit (moonroof standard on EX and EX-L models) but it lacks some of the features available on the Mazdas.

The KIA Soul is another great option. The styling is a love it or hate it proposition, but the feature content and value are hard to beat. You also get a 10yr powertrain warranty.

Still, I think one of the Mazda trio is your best bet...by far!

What did you think of each car?

Our stats suggest that all three should be very reliable.

Like Jason, I also tend to favor the Mazda.

The Encore is best for people who must have a high seating position, but who also want a compact vehicle, and who prioritize quietness and a relatively upscale interior. But it's not nearly as quick or as sporty as the Mazda.

The Honda might remain reliable for the longest (a consideration if you'll likely keep the car over a decade), but I found its seat uncomfortable (you might not have, impressions of seat comfort vary greatly) and its engine annoyingly buzzy.

I also agree with Jason that the Soul might be a good choice, but it also isn't as fun to drive as the Mazda.

For a small SUV/Hatchback, you can get a late model Audi A3 Sportback within your parameters. The A3 has the interior room of an A4 but is lighter and faster (with a 2.0T engine), has quattro, all the bells and whistles, and is certified thru Audi with an extended warranty. I have a 2008 A3 and it is fun to drive, very well finished, and -- of course -- has a panoramic dual sunroof system. An A3 gets about 28 mpg and Audi has greatly increased its models' reliability according to most recent surveys.

There is a VW equivalent (the GTI) to the A3 as well.

Good deal on the Buick Encore. The test data show it's handling the same as the CX-3 with both offering AWD. Our Encore would see 39 mpg @ 65 mph....with AWD. Very hard to beat unless you go diesel. Plus it''s upscale interior is like icing on the cake.