We don't just talk cars ... we teach you how to buy them.
"Used Mazda 3 Overview And Best Price Strategies!"
Potential used Mazda 3 buyers can use this information to help identify which models may be the best fit as well as how to then purchase the vehicle at the best possible price ... and yes, even at wholesale.
We've been nothing but impressed by the various Mazda 3's we've had here. In fact, it's become one of our favorite cars. It's just a hard car to beat for the money.
And the accolades that came with its introduction in 2004 were immediate ... and ongoing with later models. Edmunds.com consistently gives it both its "Editor's Most Wanted" and "Consumers Most Wanted" awards. And Cars.com gives it its "Best Bet" award, just to quickly name a couple.
And in addition, 237 Consumer Reviews over at Edmunds give it an rating of a whopping 9.3 out of 10. And what says more about a car than the opinions of people who actually own it?
The Mazda 3 is available as either a sedan or a four-door hatchback. The "i" trims come with a 148-horsepower 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine. The "s" trims have a 156-horsepower 2.3 liter four-cylinder. A 4-speed automatic transmission was optional with the 2.3 liter engine for 2004 and 2005. Beginning in 2006, it was replaced with a 5-speed automatic. Also in 2006, Mazda3s sold in California-emissions states were partial-zero-emissions-vehicle certified.
To us, its most notable features include its easy steering and precise handling, athletic engine (particularly the 2.3 liter), stylish design, front seat space and affordable price. The best description of this vehicle I've heard is, "value-based performance".
A new generation of Mazda 3, its second, debuted with the new 2010 model. For used Mazda 3 shoppers, here's the more significant annual changes to help you narrow down your choices.
Year-To-Year Changes:
2005 Mazda 3: A new sp23 model was introduced and included leather seats and 17 inch alloy wheels.
2006 Mazda 3: The short-lived sp23 model was dropped. Instead, the s Touring and s Grand Touring models were added. The features of the s Touring included front side airbags, curtain side airbags and 17 inch wheels.
The s Grand Touring added to the S Touring a leather interior, heated front seats, automatic climate control, trip computer, and xenon headlamps. And all s models were given standard antilock brakes (ABS).
2007 Mazda 3: Added a performance model, traction/antiskid control, and some minor cosmetic changes. The MazdaSpeed hatchback was introduced featuring a sport-tuned suspension, xenon headlights, leather upholstery, larger brakes, and 18 inch wheels.
2008 Mazda 3: Largely unchanged for the 2008 model year, however, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags became standard on all s trim levels.
2009 Mazda 3: Antilock brakes (ABS), front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are all now standard safety features across the entire model lineup. And the four-door sedan models were given a standard remote trunk release on the keyless entry fob.
2010 Mazda 3: Under went a major redesign including a revised design, additional power, better fuel economy, an upgraded cabin and new upscale features.
Overall, we believe the Mazda 3 makes an excellent choice as a used car purchase.
How To Buy A Used Mazda 3 At The Best Price:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used Mazda 3 at the lowest price and even at wholesale, depending on which method personally fits you best.
ONE - Car Auctions:
First, you can check for used Mazda 3 models at local wholesale car auctions. This article covers how to locate these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage. While this method isn't for everyone and will likely take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed some truly outstanding buys for those who shop these auction events.
TWO - Spot Wholesale Opportunities On Dealer Lots:
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. This article details the best way to carry out this process. It's just amazing what happens to prices when true competition takes place.
Also ...
If you're interested in a "Brand New" Mazda3, there are some great deals to be had right now if you know how.
