I'm trying to choose between these two cars, and I'm coming out of a '96 Sunfire, so any move is going to be an improvement. That said...
(keep in mind that the car will be an automatic as my wife doesn't drive standard and we're a one car family),
...I like the utility of the Matrix, and the driving feel of the 3.
I like the nooks and storage options around the Matrix cockpit much more, the view from the Matrix seems better in that the seat seems much higher (and SUV-like) and the Matrix has cruise, power/heated side mirrors, and better fuel economy (I've read), and my wife prefers the Matrix.
The dealership experience with Toyota has been excellent and beyond expectations, while the experience with Mazda has been below average. The Toyota dealership is much newer/more slick than the old Mazda building, and the bays reflect this as well, all making me more comfortable with the Toyota 'experience'.
But after two test drives, I've found the driving position in the Matrix awkward at best, and uncomfortable at worst. And the hard-plastic back end seems like it might be a nightmare of sliding groceries...(though easy to clean).
On the other hand, the 3 drives like a dream, but lacks cruise control, power mirrors, has lower fuel economy.
With my Sunfire trade in, I'm looking at around $25,000 (Canadian) all-in for both cars (is this too much for either??) give or take $200 or so.
I've read so much positive about the Mazda3 that it's pushing me in that direction. But I've also read reference to 'issues'. What are these? Is it likely that I'll get used to the Matrix seating position over time, or will that likely bug me indefinately?
Most important to me are safety, reliability, utility. I don't do much (if any) real sport/performance driving, so some of the 3's advantage might be wasted on me. I also fairly frequently drive around a car-load of 5 adults (short city hops) as several of our friends are carless.
So anyway, I'm looking for any advice/help/input you might have.
Is the Mazda3 Sport reliable? Is Mazda as good as Toyota in dealership service after purchase? Am I paying too much for the Matrix at $25,000? The Mazda3 Sport?
Lastly - is the seat any different in the Vibe? I'd like the side airbags and stability control it offers, but, of course, prefer the resale of the Matrix, and lower MSRP, so haven't really looked at Pontiac yet. Also, for some odd reason, I've heard reliability on the Vibe is spottier than on the Matrix, which I figure is on account of the fact that they're assembled at different plants.
Anyway, thanks in advance for any imput...
(Message edited by numfar on February 04, 2005)