6 months, 9k+ miles. LONG review.

[BillTheCat]

I posted a shorter review of the car when I first bought it, with initial impressions. Some of those thoughts are repeated here because the impressions have lasted. FWIW, I am 37, male, single, live near Tampa, and commute 50+ miles round trip to work. I also love to go on road trips. I no longer autocross, but I do like to have a little fun with my car when conditions permit.

When I traded in my 2005 MINI Cooper S for my current 2009 Mazdaspeed3 Sport, I knew what I was expecting: More power with slightly lower fuel economy, less impressive handling, more practicality, less attention from LEO's. Not that I got tagged a lot in the MCS, but the MS3, to me, seemed more like a grocery-getter with a dark secret. I also chose Metropolitan Grey Mica both for the ability to blend into traffic, and the fact that I figured it would hide dirt well, since I tend to neglect that aspect of vehicle maintenance. And I have pretty much gotten what I expected.

I think I posted up about the reasons I dumped the MCS and went shopping previously, so I'll skip it here. Straight to my thoughts on various aspects of the MS3..

The clutch was a bit difficult to get used to, as has been noted in many threads. It's grabby & has a very narrow friction point. Definitely took some getting used to. But naturally, it has become nearly automatic over time. Granted, once in a while, I'll be off in lala-land while shifting & get a little rough. I even stalled it the other day pulling out of a parking spot while trying to do 6 other things, and I laughed out loud. But the clutch isn't so rough as to be a serious detriment to enjoying the car. It just takes getting used to.

Power is where the car shines for me. It's amazing how much power we're pulling out of smaller & smaller engines all the time. My 1990 Supra Turbo was a 3.0L Straight 6 & cranked out a whopping 220 crank hp in stock configuration. It was considered fast & powerful in its day. (Mind you, when I finally got rid of it, it was well over 400 hp & modded to the point where a Toyota engineer would not recognize it, but that's a different story.) Now, we have a 2.3L 4-banger pushing nearly 270hp. Simply amazing!

Yes, low end torque is a little lacking, but it doesn't take much to get this car rolling & it pulls with satisfying power once the turbo spools up. My old MINI might get it ever so slightly off the line thanks to the supercharger & mods, but by 2nd gear, it'd be no contest.

I use www.fueleconomy.gov to record & track my mileage. Overall, I am averaging 23mpg at about a 65/35 hwy/city ratio.. I tend to cruise at about 75-77mph on the highway, and I enjoy a little spirited driving now & again on surface roads. No drag races from traffic lights, but I will let it breathe & go like a bat outta hell until I hit the speed limit once in a while. I also run my A/C a LOT. Bad combination- I live in Florida and I do NOT tolerate heat well.

The one area where I am tempted to push my luck, warranty-wise, is in the suspension. Driving the MINIs (I had 2) really got me addicted to go-kart handling. My Supra was a straight line beast, but worthless in the corners. The MINI ate corners for breakfast (especially modded) and asked for seconds. The MS3 is respectable. Better than average. And with its power, it is a great combo. But it is heavy, the whelebase is a little longer than I'd like ldeally, and it could use some help with grip & stability in hard cornering. Now, granted I am still on the stock Poortenzas, but I keep thinking that a good set of progressive springs (or better yet, coilovers) and some upgraded sway bars would make the MS3 far more enjoyable to toss around laterally.

I am both enjoying & hating the anonimity of this car. Out in the real world, where most folks are not auto enthusiasts, 90% of the population has no clue what Mazdaspeed is. And they couldn't tell a MS3 from a MZ3 if their children's lives hung in the balance. And I am sure that even LEO's are probably 75-80% unaware as well. So that's kind of nice. But I can't tell you how many times someone has said to me, without even asking what the car is, "Oh, my (relative/friend) has one of those." But it's not one of these. It's a Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Matrix, or any one of a dozen small hatchbacks out there. All of which I consider to be far lesser vehicles, so the comparison annoys me. Oh well, I guess you can't have your cake & eat it, too.

I hve to say that I love the interior. I'm not one for flashy, shiny interior design. I want everything to be within easy reach, clearly marked, and functional. If the engineers & designers get those parts right, then I don't mind some understated, tasteful accents. But I find that most eye-catching interiors are lacking in functionality. The MS3 has every bit of functionality I could ask for, plus tastefully upgraded looks in the dash cluster. I can appreciate that. It's striking, but not "in your face." And one of my favorite little upgrades- actual adjustable imtermittent wipers, which seem so rare these days!!! There's also plenty of storage- much more than in the MINI, and with practical cupholders that really work! (Supra had none, MINI had 2 little jokes under the center dash that could barely hold a can of soda, and failed to manage a 20-oz bottle, much less a Big Gulp)

The seats are comfortable & supportive, even for my, um, substantial (but diminishing) posterior & midsection. I also love the piano black accents- fits right in with my love of understaded, yet classy. And even with the rear seats upright, there's plenty of storage in the hatch. I haven't had that in a long time. The MINI would surprise you with how much storage it had, but the upgrade is still very nice, as I never have to put the seats down to go grocery shopping, etc. The stereo (non-Bose) is satisfactory, but Bluetooth would've been a nice touch. The only interior gripe I have is the lack of a ground loop isolator for the AUX port in the armrest. Kudos for multiple 12v outlets, though. In this day & age, there's no excuse not to have at least 2 in the front seat area.

The exterior is pleasant, maybe a little boring from certain angles, but even the "boring" Metro Grey paint is quite nice up close. The stock wheels are the only major gripe I have out there. They are fugly & have twice as many spokes as needed. I like my brakes to breathe a little better. I also love the styling of Mazda's headlights & taillight assemblies over the last few years. It always amazed me that more manfacturers didn't go for that more clean, modern look.

I am still on the fence about replacing the factory stereo head unit with a double DIN touch screen GPS unit, like the AVIC F-Series, etc. On the one hand, I have a PDA with GPS, but there's no good place to mount it. For that matter, I don't like any of the mountig options I have seen for basically any personal electronics, because I hate blocking vents, controls, gauges, etc. So I may yet cough up for something new, but I am far from certain.

As much as I am tempted over the coming few years to mod the ever-loving heck out of this car simply because that's what I do, I am so far satisfied enough with its power to leave it alone. For 95% of my driving needs & wants, it has plenty of power. I may, however, look into some Mazdaspeed (See: warrranty-friendly) suspension goodies, because I'd like to tighten it up a bit, and some aftermarket wheels because... UGH.

I am still amazed that Mazda sells these little beasts for under $25k Fantastic value, IMHO. No regrets after 6 months of driving. I know I made the right decision,and will be happy with it for years to come.

[Donas64]

Excellent review. Put me right there in the owners seat with you. Hopefully someday I'll be able to trade in my P5 for an MS3.

[ElGaspo]

Great review, enjoyed reading it. You write very well, if you'll allow that comment from a hs English teacher w/ 19 yrs experience.

I couldn't agree more about the 10-spoke wheels. that's the one part of the MS3 i really don't care for. (blarf)

[240ka]

Love my ms3, thought about trading it in a couple times for a 370z but I can't do it. Its a fast little bitch that's roomy as hell. I'm going to pay it off then get my z06. They will be great together, have my fast ass grocery getter/dog hauler and my badass two seater to accompany it.

Just can't wait for a real tune to drop so we can really unleash this little beast's secret

[happy and angry]

The funniest part of the review, to me, is this:


There's also plenty of storage- much more than in the MINI, and with practical cupholders that really work! (Supra had none, MINI had 2 little jokes under the center dash that could barely hold a can of soda, and failed to manage a 20-oz bottle, much less a Big Gulp)


The seats are comfortable & supportive, even for my, um, substantial (but diminishing) posterior & midsection.Yes yes, I'm a dick, I know.

I more or less agree with you on the view, incidentally. I sorta like the stock wheels, but I can see how some prefer something a little more open.

[DaleNixon]

I'd suggest getting RX8 wheels. They look great!

Your review sums this car up very well. I couldn't resist the mod bug myself. I don't know how you've managed! With motor mounts, shifting becomes a dream!

[leadf00t]

+1 on the RX8 wheels.

Nice review of the car too.

[zoomdoom]

low end torque is a little lacking

Only part I disagree with nice review however. Any more torque IMO would either snap one of my vertibre or never move because of spinning. Ive always wanted to drive a mini but I know no one personally who has one. (friday)

[prmspen]

I've had my 08.5 MS3 GT for about six months, and I agree with pretty much everything in the review. I'm in the minority who likes the stock wheels, but oh well.

I also agree about the Mini. My wife has a Cooper S. Although I prefer my Speed overall, I've never had as much fun behind the wheel as I had in the Mini on an empty, twisty ocean road. Maybe I should look into Mazdaspeed suspension mods too.

[happy and angry]

Only part I disagree with nice review however. Any more torque IMO would either snap one of my vertibre or never move because of spinning. Ive always wanted to drive a mini but I know no one personally who has one. (friday)Low end, man. Pre-turbo spooling, even. Under 2,500k it's positively sedate. I don't find this a bad thing, personally, but I get what he's saying.

[Donas64]

I've had my 08.5 MS3 GT for about six months, and I agree with pretty much everything in the review. I'm in the minority who likes the stock wheels, but oh well.

I also agree about the Mini. My wife has a Cooper S. Although I prefer my Speed overall, I've never had as much fun behind the wheel as I had in the Mini on an empty, twisty ocean road. Maybe I should look into Mazdaspeed suspension mods too.

I also like the stock wheels.

[zoomdoom]

Low end, man. Pre-turbo spooling, even. Under 2,500k it's positively sedate. I don't find this a bad thing, personally, but I get what he's saying.

What car isnt?

[240ka]

I'd suggest getting RX8 wheels. They look great!

Your review sums this car up very well. I couldn't resist the mod bug myself. I don't know how you've managed! With motor mounts, shifting becomes a dream!

i suggest not. everyone has them. i think its lame now

[DaleNixon]

They're easier to clean than the stockers, look better, and keep you under the radar. I suppose if your goal is to be different, then yes, RX8 wheels are not the way to go.

[240ka]

They're easier to clean than the stockers, look better, and keep you under the radar. I suppose if your goal is to be different, then yes, RX8 wheels are not the way to go.

agreed. i like the stockers. enough to keep them and just have them powdercoated but like the OP said.

i would have like a stock rim with less spokes that would allow the brakes to cool easier. more space in the rims also enhances the look of the car itself(the way the RX8's rims does)

[BillTheCat]

Wow, thanks for all the positive comments. Especially from the English teacher! Thanks, elgaspo1!

To clarify: yes, I was referring to torque below 2,500 RPM, before the turbo kicks in. It's not a slug, but combining the light torque with the grippy clutch, launching the car can be a trick when you're trying to get enough power to avoid bucking, etc., but not take off like a bat outta Hades.

I really should get a set of shifter bushings & the TRZ motor mount. Those are little mods that could help feed my monster, but still stay under the radar.

Happy and angry- you're not being a dick. No harm, no foul. I'm a heavy dude, but happen to be successfully trimming my weight thru a strict diet & exercise program. One of the things that stopped me from buying the GTI was that the side bolsters on the seats are rock hard & made for someone substantially narrower than me. (That, and the insurance was literally DOUBLE what I paid on the MINI or MS3)

And to clarify about the MINI cupholders- they are about the diameter of a can of soda or 20-oz bottle, but they are literally located UNDER the toggle switch panel at the bottom of the front/center stack of the dash. So nothing taller than a can of soda fits. And since nobody wants to drive around with an open can of soda (SPILLS!!!), that basically relgates them to holding your spare change, iPod, etc.

That's not to say that I don't have a phone, Zune, etc. in my MS3 cupholders more than I have cups there, but I like having the option to move them & put a 20 oz. bottle there.

[Donas64]

Wow, thanks for all the positive comments. Especially from the English teacher! Thanks, elgaspo1!

To clarify: yes, I was referring to torque below 2,500 RPM, before the turbo kicks in. It's not a slug, but combining the light torque with the grippy clutch, launching the car can be a trick when you're trying to get enough power to avoid bucking, etc., but not take off like a bat outta Hades.

I really should get a set of shifter bushings & the TRZ motor mount. Those are little mods that could help feed my monster, but still stay under the radar.

Happy and angry- you're not being a dick. No harm, no foul. I'm a heavy dude, but happen to be successfully trimming my weight thru a strict diet & exercise program. One of the things that stopped me from buying the GTI was that the side bolsters on the seats are rock hard & made for someone substantially narrower than me. (That, and the insurance was literally DOUBLE what I paid on the MINI or MS3)

And to clarify about the MINI cupholders- they are about the diameter of a can of soda or 20-oz bottle, but they are literally located UNDER the toggle switch panel at the bottom of the front/center stack of the dash. So nothing taller than a can of soda fits. And since nobody wants to drive around with an open can of soda (SPILLS!!!), that basically relgates them to holding your spare change, iPod, etc.

That's not to say that I don't have a phone, Zune, etc. in my MS3 cupholders more than I have cups there, but I like having the option to move them & put a 20 oz. bottle there.

Yay for another Zune owner. Just thought I'd give you props for that :)

Still rocking my first gen 30gb model (paid $99 for it). Now I just need a Shiny new MS3 to keep it in.

[ElGaspo]

And to clarify about the MINI cupholders- they are about the diameter of a can of soda or 20-oz bottle, but they are literally located UNDER the toggle switch panel at the bottom of the front/center stack of the dash.

yeah, those toggle switches look cool, but i bet they're a pain in the ass to operate, esp at speed. i looked at the Mini before buying the MS3, i think the Mini's shorter wheelbase helps out in the twisties, but overall very glad i went w/ the MS3.

the wheels still bug me, but i think that by powdercoating them a nice gunmetal dark gray i'll be able to live w/ them. can't deal w/ all those silver spokes that quickly look dirty & nasty. oh well.

so Bill, you burning any oil, other maintencance issues at 9k? keep writing, and we'll keep reading! believe you me, it's much better than some of the horrors i get to read on a daily basis...(braindead (puke)

TGIF & F1 starts this wkend! life is good sometimes. (cheers)

[Hank3]

agreed. i like the stockers. enough to keep them and just have them powdercoated but like the OP said.

i would have like a stock rim with less spokes that would allow the brakes to cool easier. more space in the rims also enhances the look of the car itself(the way the RX8's rims does)

I took off my Shinka RX-8 rims last weekend so I can get them re-painted this weekend. So shined up the stockers and put some Rejex on them and have been running them this week. I guess from certain angles I really like the look of them, but they can stand to be another half-inch or one-inch wider, IMO. And having that many spokes to clean becomes a pain. Especially with the dust that that front pads give off. Having Rejex on them certainly helps.

[BillTheCat]

so Bill, you burning any oil, other maintencance issues at 9k? keep writing, and we'll keep reading! believe you me, it's much better than some of the horrors i get to read on a daily basis...(braindead (puke)


That's the one thing I really dropped the ball on here. I have had just one warranty issue. (Mind you, I have no performance mods, and using all my willpower to keep it that way) I had the famous sticking gas cap, so when I went in for an oil change, I had them take a look at it. They determined it was a problem with the threads on the filler neck, of all things. Replaced it while I waited (less than 2 hours) and not a lick of trouble since- I wanna say 2 months or so now.

Not burning oil- I check it every 2 weeks or so to make sure I don't have any reason to be concerned. And I'm really not noticing any of the squeaks & rattles that I have heard some complain of. Might just be a matter of time, or maybe the robots were in a better mood when they assembled mine. (cabpatch)

Oddly, my local dealer is cheaper for a full synthetiec oil change than the independents around. Normally, I avoid any paid service at the dealers due to cost, but as long as they keep beating the Spiffy Lubes, etc., I'll go back for oil service.

***Oh, and the MINI toggles are quite easy to manage once you get used to them. Kinda like the MS3 clutch.

[bjjer]

Yeah the cowl rattle sucks, but i just turn up the radio and tune it out. The only other rattles I have are my son's toys and empty bottles rattling around in the back.

[Silver Ecstasy]

I've been extremely happy with the car! It's rare that I can say that because i've switched cars so often lately.

Everytime i've test drove another car, i'll get back into my MS3 and be extremely happy to be able to drive this thing everyday.

I agree with the ignorant clutch, it's got a mind of it's own sometimes, and the suspension definitely could afford to be a little tighter. But all-in-all, I think it's the best compromise the engineers could come up with.

I'm terrified of lowering the car in Michigan, with potholes galore, horrendous winters and even worse springs (freeway was practically "gravel city", potholes had filled with rain water and rubble was everywhere. I got 4 new chips in the front....) I actually like the stock wheels alot but always look for better improvements if it's cost effective and looks good.

So far, the short shifter, motor mount and (soon to be installed) Forge will be some great compliments to an already fantastic car!

[619MS3]

TGIF & F1 starts this wkend! life is good sometimes. (cheers)

It starts on sunday morning right? 1:30 am?

[TRDMS3]

well worth the read, fantastic writing skills you got man, just like reading an auto magazine article, glad ur enjoying the car so much!

[Redlinez]

Wow, nice, informative write up that's not just a honeymooner. I'm researching and looking at the MS3, Si, and Cobalt SS. No flames here. I had a little challenge with the clutch and told my friend who had one it was a on/off switch. I've read here that the shifter replacement and engine mount make a huge difference in shifting. He said he got 26mpg, but then admitted right after he sold it that it would backfire and do some weird stuff intermittently.
What changes did they make to the 09's if any? I read where Edmunds said the suspension could use stiffer rebound and spring rates and that Mazda planned to address the issue or suggestion.

[UHATEIT]

I took off my Shinka RX-8 rims last weekend so I can get them re-painted this weekend. So shined up the stockers and put some Rejex on them and have been running them this week. I guess from certain angles I really like the look of them, but they can stand to be another half-inch or one-inch wider, IMO. And having that many spokes to clean becomes a pain. Especially with the dust that that front pads give off. Having Rejex on them certainly helps.

repainted? arent the shinkas the special limited edition glossy/aluminum look ones? While the regular rx-8 rims arent called shinkas they're just regular rx-8 wheels in normal silver color? How come they are being painted?

[Saskatchewan17]

repainted? arent the shinkas the special limited edition glossy/aluminum look ones? While the regular rx-8 rims arent called shinkas they're just regular rx-8 wheels in normal silver color? How come they are being painted?

For this:
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4578166&postcount=4

[BillTheCat]

Wow, nice, informative write up that's not just a honeymooner. I'm researching and looking at the MS3, Si, and Cobalt SS. No flames here. I had a little challenge with the clutch and told my friend who had one it was a on/off switch. I've read here that the shifter replacement and engine mount make a huge difference in shifting. He said he got 26mpg, but then admitted right after he sold it that it would backfire and do some weird stuff intermittently.
What changes did they make to the 09's if any? I read where Edmunds said the suspension could use stiffer rebound and spring rates and that Mazda planned to address the issue or suggestion.

I'm not personally aware of the changes made from model year to model year with the MS3. I only started shopping for a new car during the '09 run, so I wasn't tracking such things. I'm sure someone here can answer that, though. Once I get the motor mount & shifter bushings, I'm still torn about whether I should save up for coilovers & sway bars right away or fix the few restrictive parts (CAI, BPV) that Mazda should have done a better job with.

I've had a set of shifter bushings sitting in my bedroom for several months now, and just haven't installed them. Mostly because I am thinking they'll just be a nice complement for when I get the rear motor mount done, which needs to happen soon. The clutch is extremely sensitive, but you get used to it, and after a while, it's no big deal- you just begin to see other cars as being easier to drive. And I like a challenge. (drive2)

[boosted1]

I've had my 08.5 MS3 MGM for 9 months now. This car is still amazing to me. The only problem I have encountered, was the dreaded "Sticking Gas Cap"! The car is quick, agile and always entertaining. The best feature is its 'Stealth Factor'! I am very happy with this purchase.

[boosted1]

What changes did they make to the 09's if any? I read where Edmunds said the suspension could use stiffer rebound and spring rates and that Mazda planned to address the issue or suggestion.The 2010 MS3 addresses those concerns.

[detonnation]

Someone else mentioned the rough shifting, I thought it was just me cuz I had a hiatus of about 11 years driving a manual. It is tight and just being aware for a bit it becomes second nature. Sport boxes are always tight... and I guess this one is moreso. And I get sloppy too, and jam it in gear once in a while...
Besides that I get the feeling the car wants to go go go. Except on Long Island there is NO where to go in rush hour traffic! Back roads, like you are where I put it in second & third and feel the gs. I replaced the stereo having just a Sport..., and just picked up a Kenwood excelon Class D amp 120Wx4 which sounds great. The stock speakers were like little pieces of cardboard... Im sure the Bose is better, but prolly worth upgrading.
Anyways a great review!!!!! (bowdown)
Mike

[UHATEIT]

For this:
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4578166&postcount=4

someone once told me that the rx-8 rims are simply just rx-8 rims, and the term "shinka" refers to the rx-8 rims with a special coating/metallic look and finish to them to look different from the regular ones. So I was curious why someone would want to paint over the limited edition color. Get what I mean?

Unless whoever mentioned that was incorrect and ALL rx-8 rims are called shinka's regardless of the finish

[DaleNixon]

No you are right the shinkas are from a special edition RX8 with a different finish on the rim. I know Hank 3 painted his because they were permanently stained.

[mikesul]

I got my '09 MS3 GT 4/09 and have also enjoyed the heck out of it. Got the short throw shifter and bushing installed and the SU motor mount, nice improvement. On order and waiting for my SW DP and MS3 CAI to arrive. Putting on Cobb springs at the same time.
And I thought I had mod fever with my '08 Corvette!

[Fazzster2]

We must be brothers... I traded my 2005 MCS for an 09 Metro Grey Speed3. I have had the car now for 5 months and have put on 15k miles. The clutch was trickey at first but I mastered buttery smooth shifting in this car by pausing a second between gears for upshifts and rev matching for downshifts. The Mini's clutch was typical German heavy and very forgiving. The Speed3 just needs more finesse........So do I miss the Mini? Yes in the sense I miss the "feel" of a German engineered car. I miss the heavy doors and substantial feel of the construction. With any Japanese car you get the sense it was put together by robots while with German cars you have the sense of human craftsmanship..... I miss the aesthetics of the Mini. The Mazda is pretty but it can get boring to look at......I find the build quality of my Speed a little lacking. The windshield rattle is annoying and I here strange sounds from the suspension from time to time. I have had 2 CELs (misfires) but so far it has been reliable. I plan on keeping the motor stock but will replace the struts/shocks in the spring with the Koni FSDs and may add a set of Eibach springs.......Overall I am happy with the Speed3. It is a great combination of speed, handling and everyday driveability. I am glad I got the last of the 1st gen because the 2010 is just ugly inside and out.......I am pretty sure my next car will be a MKVI VW GTI or a Golf TDI. I will especially go the TDI route if VW brings over the GTD. If Mazda re-freshes the Speed3 in 3 years I will reconsider or if the next gen RX8 achieves better MPG and reliabilty I will take a look at that as well.

[BillTheCat]

I may have just been lucky, but the build quality on my MS3 has been rock solid. No windshield rattles, no exhaust rattles, no strange suspension noises, no CEL's. I did have to have my gas tank filler neck replaced due to improperly formed threads that made the cap stick, but that was it.

I actually like the MS3 interior better than the MINI. I liked the MINI, too, but all those silver painted accents, plus the pie plate speedo made it a little comical. (The 2nd Gen interior makes me puke) I think the Mazda's interior design is much more refined. The more heavy, solid feel of the MINI doors is very nice, though.

I've made a couple of minor mods to the engine, but won't go for anything serious. Like you, I see stiffening up the suspension as my priority. The Koni/Eibach combo seems very appealing to me also.

Haven't given much thought to the "next ride" yet, but I keep hoping that Toyota will bring back the Supra. There's always a rumor floating around about that, too, but they enver come to fruition. If no Supra arrives by the time I'm ready to move on, I might look towards something AWD like the GTI-R, Evo, or WRX. Or I might think RWD- Z car in particular. Love the look of the RX-8, but can't get past the long term reliability issues inherent with rotary engines.

[leadf00t]

I may have just been lucky, but the build quality on my MS3 has been rock solid. No windshield rattles, no exhaust rattles, no strange suspension noises, no CEL's. I did have to have my gas tank filler neck replaced due to improperly formed threads that made the cap stick, but that was it.

I actually like the MS3 interior better than the MINI. I liked the MINI, too, but all those silver painted accents, plus the pie plate speedo made it a little comical. (The 2nd Gen interior makes me puke) I think the Mazda's interior design is much more refined. The more heavy, solid feel of the MINI doors is very nice, though.

I've made a couple of minor mods to the engine, but won't go for anything serious. Like you, I see stiffening up the suspension as my priority. The Koni/Eibach combo seems very appealing to me also.

Haven't given much thought to the "next ride" yet, but I keep hoping that Toyota will bring back the Supra. There's always a rumor floating around about that, too, but they enver come to fruition. If no Supra arrives by the time I'm ready to move on, I might look towards something AWD like the GTI-R, Evo, or WRX. Or I might think RWD- Z car in particular. Love the look of the RX-8, but can't get past the long term reliability issues inherent with rotary engines.

Toyota has this in the works, but no mention of forced induction.

www.autoweek.com/article/20091006/TOKYO/910069998

[Fazzster2]

I may have just been lucky, but the build quality on my MS3 has been rock solid. No windshield rattles, no exhaust rattles, no strange suspension noises, no CEL's. I did have to have my gas tank filler neck replaced due to improperly formed threads that made the cap stick, but that was it.

I actually like the MS3 interior better than the MINI. I liked the MINI, too, but all those silver painted accents, plus the pie plate speedo made it a little comical. (The 2nd Gen interior makes me puke) I think the Mazda's interior design is much more refined. The more heavy, solid feel of the MINI doors is very nice, though.

I've made a couple of minor mods to the engine, but won't go for anything serious. Like you, I see stiffening up the suspension as my priority. The Koni/Eibach combo seems very appealing to me also.

Haven't given much thought to the "next ride" yet, but I keep hoping that Toyota will bring back the Supra. There's always a rumor floating around about that, too, but they enver come to fruition. If no Supra arrives by the time I'm ready to move on, I might look towards something AWD like the GTI-R, Evo, or WRX. Or I might think RWD- Z car in particular. Love the look of the RX-8, but can't get past the long term reliability issues inherent with rotary engines.

I had 2 WRX's (03 and an 07), though very good cars, Subaru can't match the "connected" feel that Mazda is so very good at. However, AWD in the snow is amazing in a WRX. Never had I had the feeling of complete control. The balance is perfect and I can see why they make such a great rally car. I agree on the new Mini's interior design inducing nausea. The "fishbowl" is just too big. I had the chrono package in my Mini so the speedo and tach were on the steering wheel. I am a sucker for "retro" so the 1st gen Mini interior appealed to me. Speaking of, I would not mind having a new Fiat 500 Abarth in the garage for a 2nd car. Fiat has done "retro" right with this car.......yeah the Rotary scares me too in terms of longevity. I do 35k a year so I need a motor to last......anyway, Good luck with the Speed. We should keep in touch and see how the car does as the miles pile on....

[kvndoom]

It probably won't be until late next year before we see if the lubricating improvements Mazda made to the Renesis were adequate. By then, people who bought 2009's will have had them 2 years and some reports of engines dying should show up. I don't miss the RX8's fuel economy, but I sure do miss the smoothness of that engine.

I sat in a 2010 GTI this morning while I was getting my oil changed. Damn, the solid feel of a VW's interior is so addicting! It felt like 2004 all over again, when I sat in my Golf TDI for the first time. The door was heavy and closed with a commanding "thunk." Everything felt solid and upscale and the ergonomics were nearly perfect. Heh, then I realized, "kinda like my car," and I suddenly felt no regrets for not waiting. I know I could love the GTI, but I don't think I could love it any more than I do the Speed3. And sticker shock on the GTI is a bit much too.

[BillTheCat]

Toyota has this in the works, but no mention of forced induction.

www.autoweek.com/article/20091006/TOKYO/910069998

Yep, I read about that a while back. Latest in a long line of possible/supposed Supra successors which never actually got built. (Although signs are saying this one will actually go to production) But I haven't seen any hp/tq numbers anywhere. If it's the same boxer engine from the WRX, and the car is lightweight enough, it might be fun to drive. And that pic does make it look fairly attractive, aesthetically.

Some would argue that any Supra successor must be a RWD 6 cylinder, 6-speed. I would only argue that it needs to be pretty darned fast off the line & feel solid. And I'd stick with RWD. But losing 2 cylinders isn't necessarily blasphemy.

About danged time Toyota gave us a decent sporty car again. Can't believe it's taking so long.