Researching to buy new 2013 Mazda 3 GS-SKY

Hello everyone,

This is my first post, but I certainly hope to become a Mazda 3 owner and hang around here for a while! However, I am full of questions, many of which are probably very simple, but are quite important nevertheless.

Brief backstory: Just graduated college in December, starting my full-time job next week, getting G2 in Mid-February and am honestly hoping to obtain a vehicle before the end of February... :s

I have spent hours watching Mazda 3 review videos (from assembly line to reviews, to test drives) and spent quite a bit of time messing around with mazda.ca build & price tool for Mazda 3.

After much deliberation I feel that at up to 2.99% APR finance, my limit is really $30k and I get that figure from this page:

http://i.imgur.com/Slwep.png

Now, based on the image/page above I have several questions:

On the Mazda vehicle comparison page - http://mazda.ca/MciWeb/displayPage.a...ehicleCode=M3H - the Power glass moonroof with tilt and slide is listed as an optional feature? If so, then how come I don't have the option to uncheck it?

Another question, the one that made me register and post here is this: on the comparison page, features such as Dual-zone automatic climate controls or Intelligent key system (keyless entry and start) with push-button ignition are listed as Touring Edition, but on the build & price page, the checkbox for Touring Edition is non-selectable!!

I guess all in all, I am curious as to what the price would be (at least based on the build&price tool) for Mazda 3 GS-SKY Automatic with Touring Edition features?

Also if you look at the list of the options and accessories I selected - are any of them something that I could haggle on to throw in for free? And realistically speaking, how much could I get off that price?

I have more questions, but I will be happy if I could figure these ones out first ^^;

Thank You Very Much,

MW

You can probably get a 2012 GT for a lower payment.

Let me know when you are ready, I am sure I can help you out.

Welcome

I think the best advice anyone can give you is to call Mazda of Toronto and talk to Jeff-the-biz.

He is the resident deal maker and can take care of all your questions and assist you in finding the car that is right for you and for your budget.

Edit***
Dammit Jeff. Couldn't let me finish typing could ya.

Save yourself $1300 and get a manual. It will take 1 week of daily driving to learn.
Also.... first aid it? Save $30, send me a pm, and I will make you a better one. (Lifeguard/Firefighter in training).
And just bargain the touch up paint in, it's useless anyways.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jeff-TheBiz

You can probably get a 2012 GT for a lower payment.

Let me know when you are ready, I am sure I can help you out.

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Hello,

My only concerns with 2012 GT are:

It's 2012 and not 2013 - what are the differences between the two? It is true that I could probably live with just base GT trim, but that's by looking at the 2013 model!

Also, fuel efficiency on GT is different, isn't it? Considering $30k is going to leave me homeless, I was hoping for skyactiv technology.

I am certainly open to options though, so I guess I will get in touch with you some time in February to actually talk things through.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hyperion

Save yourself $1300 and get a manual. It will take 1 week of daily driving to learn.
Also.... first aid it? Save $30, send me a pm, and I will make you a better one. (Lifeguard/Firefighter in training).
And just bargain the touch up paint in, it's useless anyways.

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Well as far as manual vs auto goes - I can drive both, but I honestly just prefer automatic and don't mind paying for it, heh. It's more of a preference here really. As for the first aid kid - I am sure I could make one myself from just my medical supplies at home, but when you are getting a $30k car, $30 seems like nothing. That said, I could certainly take you up on the offer of making me one or assisting with it at least, when the time comes! Thanks! Also if touch-up paint is useless, should I even bother? Might as well try to get something useful instead?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Metal Wing

Hello,

My only concerns with 2012 GT are:

It's 2012 and not 2013 - what are the differences between the two? It is true that I could probably live with just base GT trim, but that's by looking at the 2013 model!

Also, fuel efficiency on GT is different, isn't it? Considering $30k is going to leave me homeless, I was hoping for skyactiv technology.

I am certainly open to options though, so I guess I will get in touch with you some time in February to actually talk things through.

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If you are planning to wait until Febuary, then don't bother with the 2012.. they will be long gone by then.

Currently they are at 0% for 84 months or a Cash Incentive of $3000! but that means nothing if you aren't ready yet.

As for february.. I will be away from the 20 until the 27th... so please look for me before then..

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jeff-TheBiz

If you are planning to wait until Febuary, then don't bother with the 2012.. they will be long gone by then.

Currently they are at 0% for 84 months or a Cash Incentive of $3000! but that means nothing if you aren't ready yet.

As for february.. I will be away from the 20 until the 27th... so please look for me before then..

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Jeff,
The cash incentive, is that through you or all Mazda Dealers?
When did the $3000 start?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jeff-TheBiz

As for february.. I will be away from the 20 until the 27th... so please look for me before then..

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I assume after 27th is also fine? D:

Also, I am still confused about GS-SKY being Touring Edition, etc!

Thank You

I think Steering-wheel-mounted cruise controls is standard for 2013 Sky or Sky/L and fog light include in GS-leather package.

According brochure from Mazda :

Touring Edition (GS-SKY): Intelligent key system (keyless entry and start) with push-button
ignition, sporty LED taillights, dual-zone automatic climate controls, auto-dimming rearview mirror,
10-speaker premium Bose® audio system with Centerpoint® Surround Sound System and AudioPilot®
noise compensation, and rear lip spoiler (spoiler available on MAZDA3 sedan only).

Quote:

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Originally Posted by htc***

I think Steering-wheel-mounted cruise controls is standard for 2013 Sky or Sky/L and fog light include in GS-leather package.

According brochure from Mazda :

Touring Edition (GS-SKY): Intelligent key system (keyless entry and start) with push-button
ignition, sporty LED taillights, dual-zone automatic climate controls, auto-dimming rearview mirror,
10-speaker premium Bose® audio system with Centerpoint® Surround Sound System and AudioPilot®
noise compensation, and rear lip spoiler (spoiler available on MAZDA3 sedan only).

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Truthfully, I didn't even look at the accessories he added..

The Cruise is included, the fogs are included. Funny part is you added the switch but not the lights...

The starter you added is for the GS-L + touring... not the GS-L (the car you chose isn't push button)

The ipod adapter is useless due to the fact the 2013 come with a usb which will do the same thing.


more info here: http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/sh...s-amp-Features

Quote:

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Originally Posted by htc***

I think Steering-wheel-mounted cruise controls is standard for 2013 Sky or Sky/L and fog light include in GS-leather package.

According brochure from Mazda :

Touring Edition (GS-SKY): Intelligent key system (keyless entry and start) with push-button
ignition, sporty LED taillights, dual-zone automatic climate controls, auto-dimming rearview mirror,
10-speaker premium Bose® audio system with Centerpoint® Surround Sound System and AudioPilot®
noise compensation, and rear lip spoiler (spoiler available on MAZDA3 sedan only).

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That would be awesome! If that is indeed true, then my revised version is:
http://i.imgur.com/IZaGb.png

Comes out about 2 grand cheaper than before (taking off cruise control, fog lamps, etc)

Please don't pay that price. there is always wiggle room. that's only MSRP.

Salesmen like Jeff ( there is others but hes the one i remember) take that wiggle room out and give you the best possible price. Unless your good at haggling, go to one of the affiliate dealers.

I don't think you should need the Ipod adapter harness ($139.95 plus tax) because you can use the USB adpapter for Ipod in the middle console for your Ipod.

The power moonroof include in the leather package that why you cannot unselect. I also don't know why cannot select the touring edition.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jeff-TheBiz

Truthfully, I didn't even look at the accessories he added..

The Cruise is included, the fogs are included. Funny part is you added the switch but not the lights...

The starter you added is for the GS-L + touring... not the GS-L (the car you chose isn't push button)

The ipod adapter is useless due to the fact the 2013 come with a usb which will do the same thing.


more info here: http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/sh...s-amp-Features

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So Jeff, going by that image, I assume if I get GS-SKY 6AT Touring Edition ($24,485) I will get everything that GS-SKY has + Touring Edition features. On top of that, I'll add a Leather package ($1400) and I think I would be quite happy with just that. If that makes sense, perhaps it is something we could discuss over phone/email/fax towards the end of February? (It can't come soon enough!)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by peterm15

Please don't pay that price. there is always wiggle room. that's only MSRP.

Salesmen like Jeff ( there is others but hes the one i remember) take that wiggle room out and give you the best possible price. Unless your good at haggling, go to one of the affiliate dealers.

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Yeah, I am aware of things like invoice price vs MSRP price and certainly hope I can negotiate something that will be mutually beneficial for myself and the dealer.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by htc***

I don't think you should need the Ipod adapter harness ($139.95 plus tax) because you can use the USB adpapter for Ipod in the middle console for your Ipod.

The power moonroof include in the leather package that why you cannot unselect. I also don't know why cannot select the touring edition.

---

Yeah, after going the link Jeff posted earlier, I think just base trim of GS-SKY + Touring Edition + Leather package is everything I need. Nothing more than that (Well maybe little things like mud flaps or something, but that's going into details)

Just wanted to thank everyone for being a great help! I have looked extensively at Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and Kia and I can't find a car that I'd like more than Mazda at this point. The community makes me want to get it all more so!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by peterm15

Please don't pay that price. there is always wiggle room. that's only MSRP.

Salesmen like Jeff ( there is others but hes the one i remember) take that wiggle room out and give you the best possible price. Unless your good at haggling, go to one of the affiliate dealers.

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Thanks! I am aware of the invoice price vs MSRP and certainly hope I will be able to negotiate something mutually beneficial between the dealer and me.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by htc***

I don't think you should need the Ipod adapter harness ($139.95 plus tax) because you can use the USB adpapter for Ipod in the middle console for your Ipod.

The power moonroof include in the leather package that why you cannot unselect. I also don't know why cannot select the touring edition.

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Yeah, it appears I don't need the iPod adapter (which is awesome). As far as moonroof goes - I was just hoping that if it comes with Leather package, it would be included in the $1400, cause if you look at pricing it charges $1400 for Leather package another $895 for the moonroof :(

Since the OP is fresh out of school and has not even started working, I suggest the following:
1) talk to Jeff (As everyone else has said)
2) wait for your first pay checks to see how much is left over (then decide what features you *should* be after! ;) )

OP is trying to buy a car and he has not even started working yet! :D

Quote:

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Originally Posted by sarujo

Since the OP is fresh out of school and has not even started working, I suggest the following:
1) talk to Jeff (As everyone else has said)
2) wait for your first pay checks to see how much is left over (then decide what features you *should* be after! ;) )

OP is trying to buy a car and he has not even started working yet! :D

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Well, it's more of a returning to work situation :P I've been with the company over a year working full time during summer breaks and Co-Op terms. They've hired me full time upon graduation and I've been doing contract work for them during my vacation too, so I have an idea of the kind of budget I'll have^^.

I was originally planning on moving out of my parents place, but might freeload for a few more months, cause every insurance quote I did online gives me around $1200/month (pinch me) tag.

As far as the features go - it is indeed a whole lot of want vs need situation, but I like to spoil myself when I can, haha.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Metal Wing

Well, it's more of a returning to work situation :P I've been with the company over a year working full time during summer breaks and Co-Op terms. They've hired me full time upon graduation and I've been doing contract work for them during my vacation too, so I have an idea of the kind of budget I'll have^^.

I was originally planning on moving out of my parents place, but might freeload for a few more months, cause every insurance quote I did online gives me around $1200/month (pinch me) tag.

As far as the features go - it is indeed a whole lot of want vs need situation, but I like to spoil myself when I can, haha.

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$1200/MONTH!!! Did I just read that right??!

Thanks to you, I went blind for 5 minutes after reading that

:pop

I wonder if the OP has also considered fuel and maintenance costs as well! :chuckle

Quote:

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Originally Posted by r4mi5awi

$1200/MONTH!!! Did I just read that right??!

Thanks to you, I went blind for 5 minutes after reading that

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Srsly 1200??? That seems way to high for a four door sedan, is there something unique about ur driving record? You may wanna check out the Mazda 3 cost of insurance thread for a better idea(I'd provide link but I'm on my phone)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by sarujo

:pop

I wonder if the OP has also considered fuel and maintenance costs as well! :chuckle

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Yeah, I certainly considered maintenance and fuel and such, I just hope MZ3 is reliable enough not to explode into little bits and pieces every day (Which from what I've read it shouldn't!)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by mathew.poulos

Srsly 1200??? That seems way to high for a four door sedan, is there something unique about ur driving record? You may wanna check out the Mazda 3 cost of insurance thread for a better idea(I'd provide link but I'm on my phone)

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I have no idea either. I mean, I only checked Kanetix, TD, Statefarm and Belair Direct but all quotes were in the 800-1200 range. My guess is it is because I am 22 (not 25 yet) and only have G2 with pretty much no driving record, so they can only assume my risk by throwing me into general categories. Lowest quote was statefarm with $800 (discount for roadside assistance,good GPA, etc). I am sure I can get a better and a more realistic quote once I actually give them a call, rather than using online tools.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Metal Wing

I have no idea either. I mean, I only checked Kanetix, TD, Statefarm and Belair Direct but all quotes were in the 800-1200 range. My guess is it is because I am 22 (not 25 yet) and only have G2 with pretty much no driving record, so they can only assume my risk by throwing me into general categories. Lowest quote was statefarm with $800 (discount for roadside assistance,good GPA, etc). I am sure I can get a better and a more realistic quote once I actually give them a call, rather than using online tools.

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$800 is still to high. I think you should consider to buy insurance under your parent's policy and I think it will cost you less than $400/month.

How long ago did you get your G2? You should probably look at getting your G. It won't make that big of a difference though, since it's really driving experience that they look at, and that starts when you get your G2

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Seshan

How long ago did you get your G2? You should probably look at getting your G. It won't make that big of a difference though, since it's really driving experience that they look at, and that starts when you get your G2

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As I've said in my first post, I am yet to get my G2 (Planning on doing road test some time next month), so all insurance quotes I did, I simply moved all dates a month back. I guess it really depends on driving experience, cause a friend of mine did the same car with his information and it was only $208 =(

Oh, Sorry, I thought it said you had your G2. Insurance company's don't count driving experience until you get your G2, so if you're not getting your G2 until a couple weeks or so before you are getting a new car, you are considered having no driving experience. You won't find cheap insurance anywhere.