2011 Mazda 3 or hold out for the 2012?

[Sean80]

My wife and I are looking to buy a new Mazda 3. There are great deals on the 2011's right now, but I'm pretty excited about this new skyactive engine/tranny. I'm just wondering if anyone else out there is holding out for the 2012. It should only be a couple more months until they are out.

[surfguy17]

personally i wouldnt buy the 2012 right away (i always wait until the next year) since its that new engine/tranny cuz people dont know much about it or if its going to have problems and what type of problems and all that junk so personally i would go 2011 since u could probably get a good deal on one.

[Kiyomi]

personally, i like the 2010-2011 look now and would not buy the 2012's even with the new gas saving engines...

[SonicBoy]

The Sky-acitve stuff is pretty new for the 2012 so there could be some issues being the first generation.

As for the 2011's stock is starting to go so your choice of colours/options will begin to get difficult.

The 2012's are hopefully on track for later next month.

[Jclark]

I would wait for the new 2012, i'm new here and my opinion is probably not as creditable as others but Mazda is a "smaller" dealership. the test their engines and put them through the pretty rough testing. i don't think they would release an engine that would be unreliable for customers. The new engine is supposed to be more fuel efficient and have 10 more HP with a very high compression ratio. transmission is also supposed to have quicker shifting. if you wait out even longer the next batch of 2012s (2012.5) are supposed to have a more rugged chassis while being 200KG lighter than the current version.

personally i would wait but thats just my opinion... :gone

[Jclark]

apparently i cant type either... *they test their engines and put them through pretty rough testing

[The Wolf]

I think the 2012 look better than the 2010/11. But new gen kinks are the norm.

Hold out and cross your fingers for the twin turbo diesel haha

[Fuyuzora]

Everyone's touched on the more important points first, but a note on colours:

If you happen to like Celestial Blue, Gunmetal Blue, or Copper Red, these colours are being dropped for the 2012+ MY.

New colours being added to replace them are Sky Blue (similar to but darker than celestial blue), Newport slate metallic (available on the CX-9, grey/green/blue shade), and indigo lights mica (a very dark indigo shade).

[Scottobot]

I'd take the deals on the 2011's now. As others have said the first model year may have some unexpected issues to address so I'd wait a year or two before buying a Skyactiv engine.

[SatoTatsuya]

It is hard to say, because I like the aesthetics of both the 2010/2011 as well as the 2012 model, however the thing that I am pretty sold in is the fact that the 2012 model will have an improved structural integrity. Having said that, I think I am still liking the 2010/2011 look a LITTTTLE bit more. I can't really choose between the two either...this question has been going through my head over and over again as well...hmmm!!! If only the 2.5 engine is being updated as well...that's too bad!!! :(

[Sean80]

I'm not too worried about issues with the new motor. This will be my 3rd Mazda and I'm pretty sure they put their motors through rigorous testing, not to mention it will have warranty. I also like the idea of the 2012's having a more rigid chassis. The way the price of gas has been fluctuating the past couple of years, I'm going to go for fuel economy!

[Scottobot]

I'm not too worried about issues with the new motor. This will be my 3rd Mazda and I'm pretty sure they put their motors through rigorous testing

As much as I love the RX-8, it's proof that no matter how much R&D goes into a car there's stuff that won't show up until it's on the road, in the real world.

[Fuyuzora]

As much as I love the RX-8, it's proof that no matter how much R&D goes into a car there's stuff that won't show up until it's on the road, in the real world.

Not sure Wankel engines, which are only developed by Mazda and further ironed out by die-hard rotary enthusiasts, can be reasonably compared to a reciprocating piston design.

I do agree with exercising caution with the first year or two of a new design, though.

[gomac]

I'm not too worried about issues with the new motor. This will be my 3rd Mazda and I'm pretty sure they put their motors through rigorous testing, not to mention it will have warranty. I also like the idea of the 2012's having a more rigid chassis. The way the price of gas has been fluctuating the past couple of years, I'm going to go for fuel economy!

The SKY-chassis won't be available on the 2012 Mazda 3. It's debut will be on the CX-5 first then the other models. The Mazda 3 will only get the SKY-G motor and SKY-Activ transmission

[SatoTatsuya]

The SKY-chassis won't be available on the 2012 Mazda 3. It's debut will be on the CX-5 first then the other models. The Mazda 3 will only get the SKY-G motor and SKY-Activ transmission

Seriously?!! dang...I thought they were going to realize it with the updated chassis as well?! Where did you hear it? I want to read up on the article as well.

[Jclark]

The SKY-chassis won't be available on the 2012 Mazda 3. It's debut will be on the CX-5 first then the other models. The Mazda 3 will only get the SKY-G motor and SKY-Activ transmission

Where did you hear this. I'm no sales rep but i do work at a mazda dealership and i was told that the 2012.5 would have a new chassis

[gomac]

I'm a salesperson at a Mazda dealership in Ottawa. We get periodic information from MAzda Canada that most people won't get.

They stated that the CX-5 will be the first Mazda with all the new SKY Activ technology in it from the SKY-G and SKY-D motors to the SKY Activ transmissions to the chassis. The 2012 MAzda 3 with only be getting the SKY Activ-G motor and SKY Activ manual and auto transmissions first along with a mild bumper refresh.

I imagine that they will get the chassis when they do the redesign in 2014-2015, but I'm not clear on that. Also, the 2013 Mazda 6 when it gets redesigned will more than likely offer a diesel as an optional engine

[Jclark]

guess i stand corrected... That really sucks i was hoping for the lighter chassis

[SatoTatsuya]

^indeed! I was really looking forward to the improved chassis as well...if that's the case, then there's no point waiting to purchase the 2012 Mazda3...I guess unless you wanna get the improved transmissions...hmmm!!!

[TheMAN]

there's every point to wait for the 2012... the engines are a completely new design and are 100% mazda, unlike the current engines... the transmission is all new and I'm not even sure if it has anything in common with ford... the new auto is so efficient, it acts like a DSG while still being a "slush box"... it will shift fast and the torque converter will lock up often to improve fuel efficiency and driving response

the engine will run not only cleaner but will be way more fuel efficient... the torque curve is also flattened which makes actual drivability much improved... the numbers alone don't mean everything
with gas prices so expensive now, about 40 US MPG that rivals the sub-compact econoboxes running around, it's a win-win for a "large" car like the 3

the 2012s are about a month into production and probably in another month we'll see them in show rooms... that's just my guess, so don't quote me on that!

[Sean80]

Here is a little more info: http://www.mazda.com/mazdaspirit/skyactiv/

[SatoTatsuya]

I wonder if Mazda will be releasing a Skyactive version for the 2.5L engine? I would very much like to get an updated 2.5L in Skyactive!!

[TheMAN]

rumor has it they're working on the 2.5, but it'll probably be another year before we see it... who knows if it goes into the 3... definitely the 6 though

[Jeff-TheBiz]

rumor has it they're working on the 2.5, but it'll probably be another year before we see it... who knows if it goes into the 3... definitely the 6 though

I have heard no such rumour...

Personally, until the VIN on a 6 begins with a 'J'.. I would never buy one.

[Timbits93]

Actually, anyone know how the financing rates would end up on the 2012 MY?

It'll ultimately decide for us if we get one really soon or wait it out.

Thanks!

[Jeff-TheBiz]

currently...

24 months 1.9%
36 months 1.9%
48 months 2.9%
60 months 3.9%
72 months 3.9%

plus no signing bonus

why wait?

[Timbits93]

Standard Bose on GT with the lower MSRP of $800.

But hmm, 3.9% for financing aint helping. Guess might have to get one real soon! Glad they still have Graphite Mica at this one dealer for both the Sedan and Sport.

[Jeff-TheBiz]

! Glad they still have Graphite Mica at this one dealer for both the Sedan and Sport.

I have more than that..

lemme know.. and if you do something today, you would get no payments until 2012.

[Timbits93]

I have more than that..

lemme know.. and if you do something today, you would get no payments until 2012.

I'm on the west coast :(

Yeah i know but unfortunately busy for the evening so no deal would be able to be done, at earliest, tomorrow.

[SatoTatsuya]

Here is a little more info: http://www.mazda.com/mazdaspirit/skyactiv/

so according to this link, they talked about a new sheet metal...do you think they are finally looking into a better sheet metal that won't rust as easily on the Mazda3?!! I sure hope so!!!

[Hoodzy]

so according to this link, they talked about a new sheet metal...do you think they are finally looking into a better sheet metal that won't rust as easily on the Mazda3?!! I sure hope so!!!

Metal is going to rust regardless.. It's the paint they need to fix. As well just the shape of the wheel wells.

[insomniak]

Thanks for the link Sato! I read the whole thing, very interesting whats going on with the new SkyActiv technology, I'd personally go for the 2012 but I'd prepare myself for a few trips back to dealer for a recall or two. Not to say the SkyActiv is gonna be faulty but any totally new tech from the ground up like this one is gonna have a few kinks in the system...

I am looking forward to test driving the new Mazda3 soon as its available...

[SatoTatsuya]

Metal is going to rust regardless.. It's the paint they need to fix. As well just the shape of the wheel wells.

ahh!! I always thought it was the sheet metal that made it rust more easily. I know that metal will rust regardless -- I interpreted what they wrote as an upgrade metal that will rust less easily. And what is wrong with the wheel well of the Mazda 3? I don't think I have ever heard about that before.

[igzy]

I too think that the raw metal is crap since even repairs by body shops who do good paint jobs still rust and the rust seems to be coming from the metal and not due to primer and paint... The paint protects the metal from ambient water and air so it does not oxidize, if it starts from within metal that's a different story and no matter what primer and paint is on top of it, it will rust... I can show you what mine looked like before repair and it bubbled up from under the paint...

To the OP - I would get the 2011...

[Kiyomi]

ahh!! I always thought it was the sheet metal that made it rust more easily. I know that metal will rust regardless -- I interpreted what they wrote as an upgrade metal that will rust less easily. And what is wrong with the wheel well of the Mazda 3? I don't think I have ever heard about that before.

dont worry about the wheel wells, hoodzy likes to complain. :D

[SatoTatsuya]

dont worry about the wheel wells, hoodzy likes to complain. :D

hahahahaha!! but now you have gotten me curious still!! what is it about the wheel wells?!! I am very curious now!! :P

[Scottobot]

Personally, until the VIN on a 6 begins with a 'J'.. I would never buy one.

+1

[vinnierap]

Get a 2011 or 2012 on a 3 year lease. When they come out with the new 2014 models your lease will be up and you can choose to either re-lease or finance a new car. Im not sure if its still available but im on a 3 yr lease 0% interest.

[siin]

Get a 2011 or 2012 on a 3 year lease. When they come out with the new 2014 models your lease will be up and you can choose to either re-lease or finance a new car. Im not sure if its still available but im on a 3 yr lease 0% interest.

+1 this is what I did, hoping the 2.5 skyactiv's are available by then so I can finance one..

[vancouver2012]

I have heard no such rumour...

Personally, until the VIN on a 6 begins with a 'J'.. I would never buy one.

Are the American made 6s that much worse than the Japanese product?

[sarujo]

Hopefully Mazda will improve the paint while they're at it! Very disappointed with the 2010 paint - thin and chips so easily. :(

[TheMAN]

Are the American made 6s that much worse than the Japanese product?

compare the fit and finish in the 1st gen mazda6 with the mazdaspeed6 (also a 1st gen) and you will see why
the mazdaspeed6 was built in japan (like all the other mazda6s for the rest of the world), while our mazda6 was built in michigan

[TheMAN]

Hopefully Mazda will improve the paint while they're at it! Very disappointed with the 2010 paint - thin and chips so easily. :(

a brand new car's paint chips more easily than after a few months old... paint needs time to cure before it is more durable
that is to say, the paint is still crappy compared to years ago and other brands

[vancouver2012]

compare the fit and finish in the 1st gen mazda6 with the mazdaspeed6 (also a 1st gen) and you will see why
the mazdaspeed6 was built in japan (like all the other mazda6s for the rest of the world), while our mazda6 was built in michigan

Do you think the same issue will happen when the Mazda3 for Canada is built in Mexico starting in 2014?

http://www.autos.ca/general-news/mazda-constructs-new-plant-in-mexico

[gomac]

Do you think the same issue will happen when the Mazda3 for Canada is built in Mexico starting in 2014?

http://www.autos.ca/general-news/mazda-constructs-new-plant-in-mexico

That plant there is ti build Mazda's strictly for the Carribbean, Mexican and South American Markets not North America

[sarujo]

Ouch! If there is any validity to the info in that URL, it would likely mean that north american production for mazda 2 and mazda 3 would be in Mexico. Time to buy now! Given the continued strength of the Yen, manufacturing outside of Japan makes more sense.

This reminds me of Nissan and their Sentra. The low end base Sentra models were made in Mexico while higher trims came from the southern US.


Do you think the same issue will happen when the Mazda3 for Canada is built in Mexico starting in 2014?

http://www.autos.ca/general-news/mazda-constructs-new-plant-in-mexico

[TheAnswer_03]

Do you think the same issue will happen when the Mazda3 for Canada is built in Mexico starting in 2014?

http://www.autos.ca/general-news/mazda-constructs-new-plant-in-mexico

Article never stated this plant was for North American buyers.

[Sean80]

Drove a skyactive last night, and I love it! Ordered one in Aluminum Metallic Mica! Can't wait, but also sad to be trading in my MS3 :(

[hgmahaha]

congrats!!

[113GT]

there's every point to wait for the 2012... the engines are a completely new design and are 100% mazda, unlike the current engines... the transmission is all new and I'm not even sure if it has anything in common with ford... the new auto is so efficient, it acts like a DSG while still being a "slush box"... it will shift fast and the torque converter will lock up often to improve fuel efficiency and driving response

the engine will run not only cleaner but will be way more fuel efficient... the torque curve is also flattened which makes actual drivability much improved... the numbers alone don't mean everything
with gas prices so expensive now, about 40 US MPG that rivals the sub-compact econoboxes running around, it's a win-win for a "large" car like the 3

the 2012s are about a month into production and probably in another month we'll see them in show rooms... that's just my guess, so don't quote me on that!

Alright lol, so first, the current MZR engines ARE 100% designed by Mazda and ARE Mazda engines....Ford uses them and changes works off them with some slight changes.

Secondly, the sky tranny, while being efficient and fast at upshifts, has been said to be slow at downshifting and drivers must really mash the pedal to the floor to get any response from it....not good.

The current 3 and the "2012.5" 3 will not have the full SKY treatment....thats for the next gen 3....

The power of the car still feels flat just like the current 2.0 as described by reviewers, while its adequate, its not what the 2.5 is.

I say, if you really want the SKY treatment, take over a short term lease...2 years and wait for the next gen Mazda 3

[Aitch]

Although there is sure to be even further advances in the next generation 3, the current one looks like there is a LOT of unique engineering built into the powertrain. Between all the advances made in the engine (check out MotoIQ's article for a great deep-dive) and the transmission (torque converter AND DSG? sign me up) there is a ton going for the new car. Sure I can hardly wait to see what comes next, but the 2012 SkyActive looks like a great deal in and of itself. The slow auto downshifting is more than likely a concession to fuel consumption. From what I recall it is quite willing to downshift quickly and aggressively in manual mode.

Edit:

InsideLine (http://www.insideline.com/mazda/3/2012/2012-mazda-3-skyactiv-g-first-drive.html)

Downshifts are quick with this transmission, so quick that it's hard to imagine anyone paying more for an automatic-equipped s model with the 2.5-liter engine. Indeed, you'd have a quicker Mazda 3, but it wouldn't shift nearly as well. The automatic has a manual mode (push the shifter forward to downshift, pull back to upshift) but no shift paddles.

Autoblog (http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/2012-mazda3-skyactiv-first-drive-review/)

Despite the elevation climb, the little direct-injected four-banger worked diligently pulling its two-passenger load up each of the canyon roads. From the driver's seat, the new transmission worked seamlessly as it blended torque converter and clutch technology. It was smooth and shifts were quick. The overall perception was of driving a very refined traditional six-speed. We liked it a lot, as we never found ourselves at a speed where the transmission was confused or caught in the wrong gear.

The Car Connection (http://www.thecarconnection.com/news/1067367_2012-mazda-mazda3-skyactiv-first-drive/page-2)

The new six-speed automatic is the star of the lineup. Mazda boasted that the much lower slip allows a more linear response, and more predictable driving feel, but we were skeptical until experiencing this in the twisties. The transmission ratchets between gears with the quickness of VW's DSG—well, almost—while pulling off downshifts in Drive seemingly with less indecision. Slip the shifter over to manual, and though we missed having paddle-shifters we were also able to get very quick downshifts, with rev-matching, and it'll hold gears up to redline with no forced upshift or full-throttle-forced downshift.

KTHNXBAI. [/fanboy]

[Red Mist]

Just upgraded from 04' to 2011 GX- comfort, so far very happy with my buy and still on my first tank of GAS ( courtsey Mazda ofcos) , thought of the 2012 as well, but two things put me off, the 2012 with skyactive is extra, not standard with all 2012s and also going by the past experience of mazda's the 1st gen engines are bound to have problems...so rather not take the risk, probably some where down the line in a couple of years when the technology is more refined..then yes for sure. BTW cant wait to c how the CX-5 turns out to be... if its less than the CX-7 and includes all the modern tech ..it will be surely be a winner.. and also one more note..im disappointed that in this day n age..that Mazda did not include auto dash illumination ala hyundai elantra in the 2011's and where is that freaking temp gauge ???

[Sean80]

The tranny switches up AND down super quick if you use the manual mode.

[TheAnswer_03]

and where is that freaking temp gauge ???

there is none; a blue indicator light indicates temp's cold, it disappears when warm, and a red light indicates temp is too hot.

[vancouver2012]

Article never stated this plant was for North American buyers.

Let me preface my response by stating that I like the Mazda products and have owned three in the past (RX-7, MX-5, and Mazda3) and will probably own another one soon with SkyActiv (Mazda3 or CX-5).

Below I have stated the last full year production and sales numbers available (2010 year) from the Mazda corporate site. Mazda posts monthly numbers as they become available, so you can keep track of the updates:

http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/2011/201101/110127a.html

Production Numbers for Mazda2 and Mazda3:

1. Domestic Production
January through December 2010
Mazda3 (Axela): 383,285 units (up 17.9% year-on-year)
Mazda2 (Demio): 159,079 units (up 9.4% year-on-year)

2. Overseas Production
January through December 2010
Mazda2: 71,926 units (up 170.2% year-on-year)
Mazda3: 70,826 units (up 30.4% year-on-year)

Total Mazda2 and Mazda3 production for 2010 was 685,116 units. Production for the first six months of 2011 was 240,053 units.

If Mazda is going to build a plant in Mexico with an additional capacity of 140,000 units of Mazda2 and Mazda3 models, where will these units be sold? I suggest some of these Mexico assembled cars will be sold in North America. Almost all of Mazda's competitors in these model classes assemble cars in North America in order to compete (Toyota, Honda, Ford, GM, Hyundai, etc). Mazda has no choice but to assemble cars in Mexico in order to remain price competitive.

[Jeff-TheBiz]

Troll??

[vancouver2012]

Troll??

Not a troll - just trying to read between the lines of the published article and Mazda news release. If Mazda is going to add 20% more worldwide production capacity of Mazda2 and Mazda3 units (based on 2010 production numbers) and then locate that production in Mexico, I am going out on a limb and suggesting that some of the Mexico production will be sold in North America. If all of the Mexico production is going to be sold in Brazil and other South American countries, why not build the plant in Brazil?

Also, Mazda has to find production capacity in Japanese plants to assemble the new CX-5 and the Mazda6 that they are moving away from Kansas City (Tribute) and Michigan (Mazda6). Mazda has to either build new assembly capacity in Japan or shift the assembly of other models to plants outside Japan - i.e. new plant in Mexico. I believe that some of the current Japan based Mazda2 and Mazda3 assembly capacity will be moved to the new Mexico plant to make room for the CX-5 and Mazda6 in Japan.

I do not see this move as necessarily a bad thing. If this move will help keep Mazda profitable and building the cars that we all enjoy then I hope it works out well. Mazda is a small fish in the ocean of automobile manufacturing. The key will be to keep the product quality up near the Japanese plant levels. It can be done at North American assembly plants but it takes effort. At least the Mexico facility will be a Mazda and Sumitomo effort rather than partnering with Ford (yuck!).

[Jeff-TheBiz]

If Mazda is going to build a plant in Mexico with an additional capacity of 140,000 units of Mazda2 and Mazda3 models, where will these units be sold? I suggest some of these Mexico assembled cars will be sold in North America. Almost all of Mazda's competitors in these model classes assemble cars in North America in order to compete (Toyota, Honda, Ford, GM, Hyundai, etc). Mazda has no choice but to assemble cars in Mexico in order to remain price competitive.


Not a troll - just trying to read between the lines of the published article and Mazda news release. If Mazda is going to add 20% more worldwide production capacity of Mazda2 and Mazda3 units (based on 2010 production numbers) and then locate that production in Mexico, I am going out on a limb and suggesting that some of the Mexico production will be sold in North America. If all of the Mexico production is going to be sold in Brazil and other South American countries, why not build the plant in Brazil?


So you are guessing.. no problem, I have heard nothing to back your speculations and I hope you are wrong.

[sarujo]

There is a lot of validity to these comments. Nissan has been producing lower products in Mexico for the US and Canadian markets for years now.

Japanese companies/exporters are hurting, as the high Yen continues to erode Japanese balance sheets. Many Japanese companies have and will be looking to strategically re-located production to alleviate this. The NY Times etc have lots of articles on this phenomena. Another great example of this are LCD TV's. Sharp makes the actual panels (AQUOS) in Japan, but they are shipped to Mexico, and the units are assembled there and shipped to US and Canada. This leverages NAFTA and minimizes import duties etc

Nobody really knows at this point if we'll see US/Canada bound vehicles made at the new Mexican facility, but it's entirely possible.


Not a troll - just trying to read between the lines of the published article and Mazda news release. If Mazda is going to add 20% more worldwide production capacity of Mazda2 and Mazda3 units (based on 2010 production numbers) and then locate that production in Mexico, I am going out on a limb and suggesting that some of the Mexico production will be sold in North America. If all of the Mexico production is going to be sold in Brazil and other South American countries, why not build the plant in Brazil?

Also, Mazda has to find production capacity in Japanese plants to assemble the new CX-5 and the Mazda6 that they are moving away from Kansas City (Tribute) and Michigan (Mazda6). Mazda has to either build new assembly capacity in Japan or shift the assembly of other models to plants outside Japan - i.e. new plant in Mexico. I believe that some of the current Japan based Mazda2 and Mazda3 assembly capacity will be moved to the new Mexico plant to make room for the CX-5 and Mazda6 in Japan.

I do not see this move as necessarily a bad thing. If this move will help keep Mazda profitable and building the cars that we all enjoy then I hope it works out well. Mazda is a small fish in the ocean of automobile manufacturing. The key will be to keep the product quality up near the Japanese plant levels. It can be done at North American assembly plants but it takes effort. At least the Mexico facility will be a Mazda and Sumitomo effort rather than partnering with Ford (yuck!).