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My Tri-Annual Test Drive Extravaganza

martyk

Michigan Man
Silver Member
Aug 24, 2001
25,385
37,162
113
Cala "badass" Ca
My current lease (Infiniti Q50) is up on May 10, so I need a car

I’ve test driven most of the cars I’m considering (28 so far). There are one or two others out there which have been as yet unavailable for a spin, so I might squeeze in a few more in the coming weeks.

All were sedans (except two hatches) with wheelbase between 105” and 112”. Prices from $32k to $65k. I cast a wide net.

If there’s a small to mid size sports sedan of interest to you, there’s a decent chance I’ve driven it in the last six weeks. If I have tested it, I am happy to share my notes

Most interesting result for me was the Mazda 3, top trim, 2.5T, AWD hatch. A bit loud at freeway speed and hilariously terrible rear visibility (like sitting in a cave). Still, it was the cheapest car I drove and IMO the single best driver of the bunch. The interior is extremely nice, too.

The sedan version is unavailable (for test or lease/purchase in SoCal). Presumably, the visibility issue isn’t there in the sedan. If one becomes available, I might go that way (and live with the noise issue). Otherwise, I’ll probably (a bit to my own surprise) go with another Q50.

Overall, AWD Mazda 3 with Turbo is IMO an amazing value in a small, sporty car
 
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