need info on mazda 3i

[buzzbomb]

Hi all,

I am new to this forum. I am a fan of mazda cars.
I had a protege about 10 years ago. It was a really nice car.

Now I need to replace my aging corolla. So at first I was
thinking about a new corolla. It seems kind of a boring choice
even though the cars are really nice otherwise. Then I heard
really good things about the mazda 3. They look really nice
and sounds like they are fun to drive.

Only question I have is what kind of MPG the 3i with automatic
gets. I've seen people talk about the MPG but noone is specifying
the transmission type and that makes a significant difference
in most cars. So could 3i owners with auto please step forward
with an realistic estimated MPG, and any other comments for that
matter are welcome.

Thanks

[legally insane]

I own both a 3i 4dr auto and a 3s 5dr 5 speed. Both get between 25 and 30 mpg during normal driving. Depending on how hard you push them it can be less. Buy one. You'll like it a **** of a lot more than a Corolla.

[A Buckeye 3]

I own a 3i manual, and I'm getting anywhere from 29 to 34 mpg depending on the type of driving. With the manual, you can dramatically change the mileage depending on how you drive. I do lots of highway driving and I try not to rev it up too often (although it is tough) and I get usually right around 32. I also upgraded to 17 inch rims and 215/50 yokohamas, so that may take the mpg down a tiny bit, but it doesn't seem to. Do yourself a favor and go get one, you won't be disappointed.

[mica3speedy]

At least go test drive a 3. See how you like it. It looks better than the corolla, and will be more fun to drive.

[buzzbomb]

I wasn't getting any replies for the first few days after my first post and assumed that members of this site just don't buy 3i's.

Thanks for your replies. I will definitely go test drive one.

Does anyone have anything to add concerning any reliability issues with the 3i's?

Thanks in advance for any input.


- Leonard

[A Buckeye 3]

There's some other posts earlier on this site that talk about airbag sensor problems and fuel pump problems. I experienced both of these problems my first day home with the car, but the dealer replaced both and now I have no complaints at all. I've got almost 5000 miles, and it runs beautifully. Pulls strong, fires up quick, idles smooth. As far as appearance, after a good washing and vacuuming of dog hair, the car looks brand new. You can see pics of mine in the "vehicle pics" thread.