Comparison review: Five compact sporty sedans

[bradyholt]

Originally Posted by ARCANGEL

where do you think you would have placed a regular civic sedan fully loaded? I would be interested if you would add that because the SI really doesnt belong in this comparo. You dont have a mazdaspeed3 nor a volkswagen jetta gli etc etc. Test a reg civic sedan with a manual

This comparison isn't about the Civic vs. its most direct competitors. It's "what sort of fun small sedan can you buy for around $20k"?

The regular Civic is pleasant but overpriced basic transportation.

[bradyholt]

First place: Mazda3

That the Mazda3 wins this comparison says at least as much about the slim pickings among sporty, relatively inexpensive sedans as it does about Mazda’s recently redesigned compact car.

This win says that Mazda checks both the boxes that a compact car ought to in this price range – it should have a premium feel, and it should be fun to drive. The Mazda3 is agile and powerful, has a well-appointed interior, and isn’t too stiff-riding or noisy.

But while these boxes are both checked, Mazda certainly didn’t go above and beyond in comfort, luxury, or sportiness with this car...

Continued at link:
http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-1...ns-First-place

[bradyholt]

Conclusion:

There's a lot that goes into what makes a good car. In this particular comparison, of compact sporty sedans, it came down to which car was the most enjoyable to drive.

However, practicality, comfort, refinement, price, and gas mileage do matter, too. Had the car that won here, the 2010 Mazda3 S, failed miserably in these areas, good acceleration and handling alone would not keep it in first place.

But beyond the overall ranking order, which particular cars shine in which particular areas? See the summaries at the link below, where the cars are ranked specifically for their comfort luxury, practicality, driving enjoyment, price, and overall blend of the above:

http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-1...ans-Conclusion

[KingElvis]

Only the Civic is not in the fugh!ly category. You might as well get the two door anyway.

[E. Haskell]

The Mazda is looking a little too happy...it needs to settle down.

[Red LTZ]

Originally Posted by bradyholt

Conclusion:





http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-1...ans-Conclusion

Originally Posted by E. Haskell

The Mazda is looking a little too happy...it needs to settle down.

cheshire-cat-.jpg

I see a resemblence.