Looking to Purchase Mazda 3

[STeeLy]

I'm not a new owner, at least not yet anyway.

Now, before I start, I really appreciate everybody's input on this site, especially with the dealership experiences, the reviews on the Mazda 3s and everything.

For the past several months, I've been looking into purchasing a car and the Mazda 3 really struck out at me. I've also looked into the Protege as they both seem to be good cars. Though, I'd much prefer a Mazda 3 because of its sleeker look.

Now being a student in University, money is a little tight, so I can't spend too much on the car, I'm limiting myself to around the $15000 and not looking to go over that if at all possible.

So, with the $15000 price tag. Could it be possible to get a Mazda 3 that fits the following:
Automatic Transmission
Power Windows
Power Mirrors
A/C (This should be standard in today's cars now, but just in case it isn't)

I'd much prefer a GS trim over a GT trim mainly due to fuel economy, that and I don't really need a 2.3L engine.

Even though I attend university in Ottawa, I may very well buy the car in and around the Toronto Area.

If anyone could offer help, it would be really really great!

[Cardinal Fang]

Welcome to the board STeeLy.

[dave108]

...I've been looking into purchasing a car and the Mazda 3 really struck out at me. ... I'd much prefer a GS trim over a GT trim mainly due to fuel economy, that and I don't really need a 2.3L engine

Are you looking for a Sedan or Sport model? 2008 or 2008.5 ?

Cheers.

[STeeLy]

If I could get a 2008 or 2008.5 model with just $15000 I would totally go for it.

I'd prefer a sedan over a sport, but for the amount of money I am willing to spend, if I can't get the sedan, I'd take the sport.

[dave108]

Actually, the sedan is less expensive than the Sport model, so I think you're probably looking at the sedan. Like you, I'm a newb, but I've been doing a bit of research, and I think it would be very difficult to find a 2008.5 within your 15k budget.

I believe that the dealer invoice for a 2008.5 Sedan GX would be a few hundred more than 15k, closer to 16k... A/C and Automatic add $1000 (MSRP) each. I think the power windows and mirrors are part of a package which adds over $1000. Then there's freight and PDI ($1200), and tax. I've been looking at the 2008.5 Sport, so my information may be inaccurate for the sedan, but it's what I've been able to piece together.

The other option is to look at a 2008 (not .5), there may be deals or incentives on those models that are not available on the 2008.5. But your choice may be limited to what is on the lot or what the salesman can locate for you.

Or, you can wait for the 2009 model in August/September, as they are said to be around $2k cheaper.

Good luck.

[STeeLy]

hm... I think I will end up waiting... I won't be needing the car until about some time in september so, the 2009 model may very well be a nice option if it ends up being 2K cheaper

[DumpInfo]

Welcome to the forum! If anything let TheBiz help you out with a deal once September hits! :)

[STeeLy]

Thanks for the Welcomes!

[mazdathree]

welcome!....for $15000, you'll probably be able to get a car that has been previously leased...As far as I know the only dealership that I have been hearing good reviews is MoT.....There are others but I think it really matters who you get as a sales person...