Ask an expert

We are in the market for a new car, with price limit of $35000 including trade in. We tend to keep our vehicles for about 10 years so the new one needs to be a "long laster", although we don't do high mileage.
So far we have considered a Mazda 3, a Mitsubishi Lancer and a Nissan Tiida, although we are open to other suggestions. Is there anything about the above 3 that you might recommend as a best buy?
Many thanks
Martin

The Mazda3 wins it for me based on the ZOOM ZOOM appeal. They have been an excellent car for Mazda (arguably one of their very best ever models) over a long period.

Nothing wrong with the other two but they definitely lack the appeal that the Mazda offers.

Thanks for that. However I read about a "new generation" power train in the Mazda 3 & I've always been wary of buying a first up version. Any thoughts?

Fair comment you make a good point. Mazda have developed new engine technology called SKYACTIV.

It’s all about their way of reducing fuel consumption and tail pipe emissions.

The big difference over a conventional petrol engine is the high compression ratios which are not much less than a diesel engine. All this on the low octane 91 fuel does seem hard to imagine I must admit.

Mazda are staking their reputation on this technology so we have to believe it’s been well thought out and has been extensively tested before going into production.

We did attend the launch of the Mazda3 with this engine and were impressed with its performace and general all-round drivability.

Have you considered checking out the Ford Focus or waiting for the new Honda Civic due out very early next year?