Dlewbell

I love my Mazda3, & would definitely recommend the Speed3 if you can find one in good shape at the right price. I do like the WRX as well, but the interior is much better in the Mazda. As for cargo space in hatches, I've put a race kart frame in the back along with luggage. The axles had to be removed & placed longways, but it fit. I could never do that with the sedan.

bagwell

just moved back to Houston, so no real need for AWD

96SC4

iTrader: (2)

Camry SE V6?
has a little bit of punch, with a little bit of luxury.... and reliable

rkyat

The LGT is still a pretty fun car to toss around with the 5spd though. Fairly nice interior as well and mod-friendly if you go down the route.

mmarshall

Several things.

First, the WRX, according to Consumer Reports, unlike most American-market Subarus, has had worse-than-average reliability. The GTI, as you note, is also not a good bet in that department. The TSX, MazdaSpeed3 and Si, if well-cared-for, should be OK in that department....but, if you are buying used, check your sample out as well as you can. Pocket-rockets tend to have been driven hard, especially if previously-owned by young people, and major components on them could be worn.

Second, if you want sporty and luxurious at the same time, and you are willing to buy new, wait a few months and check out the upcoming Buick Verano Turbo. American-market versions lack the hatch that the Chinese-market Buick Excelle version does, but it does have the 4 doors (though the rear-seat room is tight). I've driven non-turbo Veranos, and they are a superb combination of refinement, interior trim, tomb-quietness (by compact-car standards), and much better, more sport-oriented steering/handling than traditional Buicks. I have a very high opinion of this car myself, and am considering one, but am waiting a few more months before shopping to see how its first-year reliability holds up. By then, the turbo model should be out...it will run on regular gas, and have a 6MT option.

Third, if you want something under 40K (and reliability is not a major concern), also check out a new Audi A3 five-door hatch. Both the the 2.0T gas and TDI diesel engines are gems, and so is the S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission (one of the few American-market Audis where the S-Tronic is still available) In addition, you can get the superb Quattro AWD system for bad weather...all for under 40K, even with options. If possible, though, I'd avoid Audis MMI system. Like BMW's I-Drive, I find it very difficult and frustrating to use..............but some people don't have any problem, and you might not either.

Good Luck.

tmf2004

iTrader: (15)

IS350 if still want Lexus reliability