You see, only the mid-grade GS will offer the new engine as an option. So, besides more equipment changes, the GX will get no mechanical updates. In addition, interest rates are pretty low right now to clear out the 2011 models, so no reason to wait if you want a base version.
How much?
The Mazda3 GX sedan we tested starts at $16,295 before taxes, freight and delivery charges; adding the Comfort Package and the automatic transmission raises the price to $19,390.
That's reasonable, although some rivals cost a little less with about the same level of equipment (minus alloy wheels) such as the Honda Civic LX ($18,690), the Chevrolet Cruze LS+ ($18,200), the Ford Focus S ($17,249) and the Hyundai Elantra GL ($19,299). Others are more expensive, like the Toyota Corolla CE with the Enhanced Convenience Package ($19,490).
Comfortable, fun to drive, not too expensive, decent on gas, solid interior finish; really, you can't ask for more in a low-budget, compact sedan. All the newcomers in this segment are very, very competitive, but somehow the Mazda3 seems to succeed in staying in the game. Hence my thoughts on it becoming the "safe choice".
How much?
The Mazda3 GX sedan we tested starts at $16,295 before taxes, freight and delivery charges; adding the Comfort Package and the automatic transmission raises the price to $19,390.
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| Our GX tester with the Comfort Package and automatic retails for $19,390. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
That's reasonable, although some rivals cost a little less with about the same level of equipment (minus alloy wheels) such as the Honda Civic LX ($18,690), the Chevrolet Cruze LS+ ($18,200), the Ford Focus S ($17,249) and the Hyundai Elantra GL ($19,299). Others are more expensive, like the Toyota Corolla CE with the Enhanced Convenience Package ($19,490).
Comfortable, fun to drive, not too expensive, decent on gas, solid interior finish; really, you can't ask for more in a low-budget, compact sedan. All the newcomers in this segment are very, very competitive, but somehow the Mazda3 seems to succeed in staying in the game. Hence my thoughts on it becoming the "safe choice".
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