I have a 2010 Mazda 3 with the 2.5 engine. It's been a reliable car to drive, although fuel efficiency is poor. I was following the development of the new 6 and 3 with the intent of moving into one sooner than later. I was pretty impressed that the new 2.5 engine put out 184 horsepower and got respectable fuel economy. It looked like a huge improvement over the old 2.5. However, I was disappointed and frankly pretty pissed off when I saw how they packaged the 2.5 engine in only the highest end model, costing about $27,000 for the hatch! I can buy an Accord Sport for $1000 less! Anyone who had a 2.5 and wanted another one is most likely walking away when they see that pricing. I know I did. Now, 2.5 owners have to go to a 2.0 engine to get the same priced vehicle as before. Why not look elsewhere when finance rates and incentives are the same at Honda and Toyota?
Also, I'm not seeing any 3s or 6s on the road. I'm looking but you never see them. The Civic EX is just too good a deal as is the Accord LX and Sport. I wanted a Mazda but they just aren't competitive with other makers, as good looking as they are.