Looking at new cars

[MDE]

I'm getting bumped up to full time at work and I really want to replace the 90 Mercury Topaz I'm driving now. My short list right now is, in order of preference:

Mazda 3 (manual)
Honda Civic (manual)
Ford Focus (manual, mainly interested in Sync and the low price)
Chevy Colorado (5 cyl auto)

I've driven automatic versions of the Civic and 3, and a V6 S-10 (should give me a decent idea of the Colorado). Can anyone comment on the above vehicles? I know my Dad loves his 07 Civic, but I want some other opinions.

EDIT: Does the 3 come with an auxiliary audio input jack on any trim level?

 

[cKGunslinger]

I love my new Mazda 3.

I got the 2008 iSport base package (stock manual + A/C) and yes, it comes with an AUX input and an extra 12V plugin in the armrest/storage area. Also steering-wheel mounted audio controls. I drive a lot in rush-hour traffic (kinda tricky with the manual tranny), but still manage about 30-33 mpg.

I've read that the Colorado - while a good-looking truck, imo - has major quality issues and should be avoided at all cost.

 

[fstime]

The Mazda is probably funner to drive but the Civic is better on gas.

 

[zerocool84]

Originally posted by: BouZouki
The Mazda is probably funner to drive but the Civic is better on gas.

Where are the Nazi's at???

 

[Dr. Detroit]

Not so sure the $5K premium for a Civic over a Focus is worth it.

I'd also have a look at:
Elantra
Cobalt - Manual & AC can often be had for $11K or under
Vibe
Suzuki SX4 Sport

 

[Soapy Bones]

I just got a 2008 Fusion SEL about a month and a half ago and so far I love it. I waited to get one with the Sync which is pretty impressive. I haven't had much of a chance to play MP3s but I really enjoy the hands free calling and everything else it does. I'm very happy with my purchase and so hopefully that would translate to the Focus.

 

[jjanders]

I'm interested in your first three choices as well. I like the new styling of the Focus, and it's price is attractive, but would be concerned about reliability, not sure what the Focus track record is. I have heard the 2.3L motor in the Mazda3 and Fusion is pretty solid, not sure about the 2.0 in the Focus, or other parts of the Focus...

 

[Demo24]

Originally posted by: jjanders
I'm interested in your first three choices as well. I like the new styling of the Focus, and it's price is attractive, but would be concerned about reliability, not sure what the Focus track record is. I have heard the 2.3L motor in the Mazda3 and Fusion is pretty solid, not sure about the 2.0 in the Focus, or other parts of the Focus...

well your officially the only one I know that has ever said that.

New focus isn't really all that new, its basically the same car as the previous ones but with some more angular body work and a newer interior.


mazda 3 is what I would recommend. Looks nice and has a good interior as well.

 

[MDE]

Originally posted by: jjanders
I'm interested in your first three choices as well. I like the new styling of the Focus, and it's price is attractive, but would be concerned about reliability, not sure what the Focus track record is. I have heard the 2.3L motor in the Mazda3 and Fusion is pretty solid, not sure about the 2.0 in the Focus, or other parts of the Focus...

The Focus is basically the same car they've been selling for years now, I think even Ford can get it right after this long.

 

[JulesMaximus]

Knee jerk-ZOMG get a used car!!! :shocked:

 

[MDE]

Originally posted by: JulesMaximus
Knee jerk-ZOMG get a used car!!! :shocked:

I thought about used, but looking at the two cars I'm most likely to get, I'm not going to save all that much and financing won't be as good if I go used. I'll consider it if I find something I like, but I'm not concentrating on it.

 

[MDE]

Just to update, I got a black 08 Civic LX 5 speed for $19k out the door. I got them to give me 4.9% and floor mats (not much, I know), I think I did pretty well.

 

[Kremerica]

I would say the same as above, BUY A USED CAR.

From a financial point of view, new cars lose their value a great deal in the first few years (yes even shitty hondas).

Most people get roped into looking at a low payment, but realize that your committing yourself to that payment for 5 years (or however long your loan is for)!

I would go with Ford or Mazda, but that is my American pride (some people call it arrogance)!

I have driven the Mazda 3 and 6 and I enjoyed both cars but they aren't my style, electronic ignition is crap. You can't hammer the gas and actually feel the torque of the car lurching ahead! (I like big motored muscle cars)

 

[jagec]

Originally posted by: JulesMaximus
Knee jerk-ZOMG get a used car!!! :shocked:

True, but no one listens to this practical advice, so I'm going with

Knee jerk-ZOMG get an Ariel Atom!! :shocked: