Just happy with my purchase, this will keep me company when I can't drive my 7.
A few pictures I'd like to share.







Note the bin full of stuff taken out of my flooded basement...
I hope you like it.

 

Personally I hate the front grill, but nice buy. A word of warning:
Try not to bend over anywhere near a Mazda dealership; they will take the shot.

 

I know that grille is a controversial one. I don't mind it, I just think it is a bit too big. However, generally speaking, I like it, especially along the front corners.

I know how dealerships are... In the last 5 years we've had an Accord (for 4 years), a Jetta (since last year) and now this 3. Every second service... 300 is common...

 

nice buy! I've gotten use the front, and is starting to get like it a lot. How does it drive compared to the previous generation 3?

 

I don't know if I am the most qualified to make that judgment.
My father in law owns a 2007 3 sedan automatic which I have driven quite a few times.

Needless to say, this engine is stronger and the 6 speed tranny is much more enjoyable than the auto/sport mode 4, which has a mind of its own.
At the wheel, the previous gen feels somewhat lighter, although I haven't had the chance to put this one through its paces.
This seems to be quieter overall, the steering feel is very similar.
Generally speaking, this seems to be a bit more refined and it packs a bit more punch. I test drove 2 sedans prior to buying this one, a 2.0 L and a GT (2.5), both manual, (5 on the 2 and 6 on the 2.5). I wasn't too impressed with the 2.0 L engine.
This might be because I usually drive a 2.5 Jetta and/or the 93 VR 7 you can see in the background.

On a quick comparison with the Jetta, the german car feels yet a bit stronger (official data on power and torque is a bit better on it), but it also feels clunkier than this car.

I drove with 4 adults yesterday with air on and the engine seems at ease with that.

Once I do my little "break in", I'll push it harder and I'll get a better idea.
I would say that the best things are the 6 speed tranny and the whole bluetooth system, which allows me to do hands free calling with my iphone while I can also listen to the music I have stored in it.

 

too.....much.....happy!.....
otherwise, very nice purchase. congrats