Civic vs Corolla vs Mazda 3 - Which one is the best?

[CCCPres]

I get asked this question every day.

3 very popular small cars. Please vote in the poll above.

Feel free to post your reasons why.

Cheers,
CCCPres

[coriolis]

Civic/Mazda3, then the Corolla.

All are pretty much reliable and maintenance isn't expensive.

[gherikill]

Ford Focus

[hotweiss]

If you are going to upgrade any of them up to $20,000, then the Subaru Impreza is the best.

[chenwaa123]

The trim kinda matters don't you think?

[notanexpert]

Best for whom?

For a young guy/girl getting a car in which they aren't embarassed to be seen, probably the Mazda 3.

For longevity, Corolla. Just checked some records, right now 13% of 1987 Corollas are still on the road today, 9% of Civics and only 6% of Mazda 323's.

For resale value, Corolla is still king, mostly due to the longevity record mentioned above.

[mangoman]

Ford Fiesta/Mazda 2 because those are actually the type/size of car with the engine that I actually want since none of the "reliable" manufacturers are bringing clean diesels over!

I'm not a sedan guy but if forced then the Honda Civic (Mazda 3 now has weird front grill, people still smash the driver's door trying to break in even though it's been fixed and it isn't as fuel efficient as it should be). Corolla looks better now but still a bit bland for me.

[DeadMau5]

I'll be in the market for a new car within the next month and am seriously leaning towards the Mazda 3 Sport GS. Seems like the best deal for the price..

[macnut]

Even though these cars are in the same category, they are so different that it is not possible to say which is "best".

For someone who just has to have a "driver's car", no question, the Mazda 3.

For someone who demands enlightened cockpit design and is happy keeping the revs up while driving, the Honda Civic.

For someone who is definitely not a driving enthusiast and cherishes conservatism, the Toyota Corolla.

But then you have to factor in individual preferences for standard equipment, available options, sound equipment, resale value, local dealership reputation, etc., etc.

The CCC Pres. knows all this, surely?

[mrfrostyman]

Since i bought a mazda 3 and i compared it against the other 2 i am going to go with whatever is best for you. As stated above they all have their strengths and weakness's. I have an 09gt 5spd btw for reference.

[Nyte]

As some have already mentioned, best for what?

[CCCPres]

As some have already mentioned, best for what?

This isn't for me its to help other RFD mebers who may be looking for advice but are too shy to ask.

Best is clearly very subjective, but that's ok. Getting different opinions is what this forum is all about.

Cheers,
CCCPres

[Carzzz]

best of what?
value? driving dynamic? ride comfort? roomiest?

[angel_wing0]

The trim kinda matters don't you think?

+1.

Lets say highest trim, i would say civic si, mazda speed3 then corolla xrs

[JAGpilot]

The Mazda3 has many problems or so I have heard from TorontoMazda3. Suspension issues, airbags deploying for no reason, hard to change oil filters. Stay away from them