Topic: Need a new small hatch, is the 2012 Mazda3 SKYACTIV technology worth the $?

[DKaz]

I prefer the Mazda 3's looks, but I like this quote better...

"The car looks like a hillbilly on nitrous oxide."

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204652904577197030609865456.html

[DomD]

I would probably keep my P5 for longer too, but it is starting to develop annoying problems.  The latest is that after the engine warms up it idles very low almost stalling sometimes.  My mechanic can't figure out what the problem is.

I also really like the exterior look of the Focus, but the interior I find a bit too busy, and the tiny back seats are a killer.  I don't mind the exterior of the Mazda and the interior is nice and a well laid out.

[mmorriso]

do you have the new (revised) canadian specific egr valve?  it is a very popular problem with the 3rd generation protege.  you should be able to get it form the dealer for $150 or less and it should be no more than 1.5 hours of labour.

lots of info at www.toprotege.com and www.mazdas247.com

[DomD]

My mechanic is not confident that it is the EGR.  There is no check engine light.  He also says that to check the EGR they might brake it in the process.

Anway back to the topic.  I have found some distrubing info on the 6 speed manual transmission in the new Mazda 3.  mazdaforum dot com hopefully this is an isolated problem...  Sorry can't post the link yet because I don't have enough posts.  Search for "2012 Mazda 3 Manual Transmission Problems" on google and it is the third link.

[mmorriso]

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?123732861-Canadian-EGR-valve-exposed

if it is not the egr now it will be eventually, it is so common i would consider it preventative maintenance.  i had mine replaced last week when i had the same symptoms as you, that is when i took time to test drive the 3.  the elantra gt looks like it may be worth of a test drive when it becomes available. 

good luck

[DomD]

Yeah, I'll probably get the EGR checked out.  Unfortunately with the transit strike here in Halifax dropping my car of at he shop and then getting to work is a big pain.


Anyone have any info on the possible diesel engine in the 2013 Mazda 3?  I found this:

Published: 07/07/2011
What's New for 2013

The 2013 Mazda 3 will feature a new 2.2-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder dubbed "Sky-D." It's expected to produce 167 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque -- both of which are considerably more than the output of the Volkswagen Jetta's TDI diesel engine. With estimated fuel economy of 43 mpg, Sky-D should be thriftier than a VW TDI as well. Look for the 2013 Mazda 3 to hit dealers in 2012, so check back later for complete buying advice and driving impressions.

http://www.edmunds.com/mazda/mazda3/2013/?sub=hatchback

[DomD]

C&D Reviews the Mazda 3 Skyactiv: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2012-mazda-3-i-touring-skyactiv-test-review

[DomD]

Check out the graph in this article: http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2012/04/enslaved-at-the-pump-how-many-years-until-you-will-go-free/

[1TSX]

Check out the graph in this article: http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2012/04/enslaved-at-the-pump-how-many-years-until-you-will-go-free/

"The best investment would be the Mazda3 Touring with SkyActiv. It will have saved you before it is driven off the dealer’s lot, simply because it is cheaper than its counterpart. "

Really? Compared to the 2.5? I am sure the similar model but with the standard 2.0 is cheaper (~$700).

[DomD]

You are right, here in Canada we have the option of the standard 2.0L in the hatchback which they don't have in the USA any more.

[Ocelot82]

SKYACTIV tech on a Mazda3 is not worth it.Not only is it noisy, doesn't have enough oomph to get you onto the highway.Granted, saves on fuel.For a Mazda3, opt for the GT.It have decent horsepower to zip you doing lane changes, merging on highways, etc.Granted (again...) it sips more fuel.If you are after the SKYACTIV technology, look into the 2013 Mazda CX-5.My suggestion though, wait for the interest rates to hit 0% - which will come.

[DomD]

You say that the Mazda 3 with Skyactiv does not have enough "oopmph" but then go on to recommend the CX-5, which is a heavier car.

I had no problem getting on the highway when I test drove it and didn't find it any noisier than other cars in its class.