All of the reviews say the Mazda 3 is a well built car. They also say the engine isn't great.
2.5 litres and 180bhp but still slower than a GTD and only manual.
Tech looks a bit retro even vs the Mk7.5 too.
I think the exterior looks nice though.
Our Mazda has more tech than my 7.5 GTI, Fred. And it all works flawlessly, unlike the mk8 Golfs. The fact it is "retro" was a big draw to us - we prefer a user-friendly conventional driver interface, and deliberately sought this out, consequently discounting the mk8 Golf. However, I'm unsure how our Astina model aligns with what the UK gets in terms of equipment, though. Maybe you only get the more downmarket models? Our Astina is loaded.
And the 139kw/252nm 2.5 is enough for us. It actually feels more responsive than my GTI - the 2.5's NA throttle has none of the GTI's delays, dead travel and (to me at least) frustrating throttle mapping (praise the Lord for pedal tuners). Ultimate performance would be down on the GTI once the VW's throttle mapping is past the delays, but for everyday driving the Mazda is a more satisfyingly responsive experience.