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Hatchbacks Mazda3 Mazda3 2.3 vs. '07 VW Rabbit
389 messages, Last post on Apr 17, 2009 at 12:40 PM
You are in the Mazda3 Forum. Your Host is pf_flyer
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Replying to: jmnapp (Jul 10, 2006 6:24 am)
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Replying to: jaesee75edmund (Jul 23, 2006 6:43 pm) I now own a Mazda3, and love the car. I recently drove a VW Rabbit (4dr auto) and, while I liked the interior, there is no comparison between the Mazda3 and the VW when it comes to performance and handling. The VW's electronic power assisted steering feels numb compared to the 3's handling. Like you though, my biggest concern for folks cross shopping these vehicles would be VW's previous reliability issues with the Golf/Jetta (both cars share many of the same parts). I think that VW missed the boat by not offering the TDI engine in this car until 2008. If the Rabbit could achieve 40mpg highway, it would have stole sales away from the likes of Mazda, Toyota, and Honda. My advice to anyone shopping these two vehicles is to drive them back-to-back. There is simply no comparison with regards to the driving experience, the 3 blows the Rabbit away (unless you like numb steering and roll when cornering).... |
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I just priced out a Mazda3 S Touring 5-door with the moon roof/6CD package in 5-speed Vs. the VW Rabbit 4-door hatch with side impact airbags, sun roof and 17" alloys. Mazda $19,065 MSRP VW $20,329 MSRP That's quite a difference in price. Take it as you wish. |
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I test drove both cars and thought they were rather similar. Both handled well, and both were my two top choices. I ended up with the rabbit because I liked the look of the hatch better on the rabbit than the mazda, and I also liked the interior better. The rabbit was also available with the extra options that I wanted at the dealer. Unlike what many people have said, the people at my VW dealer were very nice and helpful with my questions and the purchase, so that did not factor into my decision. I've had the car for about a month now and have had no problems it, and am quite pleased with my decision.
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Replying to: clownfishfunk (Jul 24, 2006 3:12 pm) I did not have a problem with the VW sales team. I had a problem with the service department and customer service. I do like the fact that you drove the 3 and the Rabbit and picked the vehicle that was best for you. It would be a boring world if everyone drove nothing but Rabbits or nothing but 3s.. Choice is a good thing 
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Replying to: jmnapp (Jul 10, 2006 6:24 am)
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Replying to: carfanatic007 (Jul 24, 2006 9:18 pm) Despite all of the recent recalls of Japanese built cars, the Mazda 3 is still an excellent choice. Do not let the fact that it is built in Japan scare you away. Most of the recalls have been by Toyota anyway.
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Replying to: moparbad (Jul 25, 2006 3:26 pm) Statistically, Japanese cars are the most reliable. Just because a manufacturer announces a recall does not mean the vehicle is unreliable. Toyota has had the most recalls lately, however, I do not think it will tarnish their name. GM and Ford have had huge recalls this year as well. Mazda has been fortunate to not really have any recalls, except for the preventative one placed on the Mazda5 back in September. The Mazda3 has not had any, and it's way to soon for the VW Rabbit to have any. I also believe the 2.5 5 cyl. is a new engine for them? Am I correct?
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Replying to: aviboy97 (Jul 26, 2006 8:55 am) No you are not correct, the 2.5 5cyl is new only to North America, it has been offered for several years outside of North America. Statistically, Japanese cars are the most reliable. Just because a manufacturer announces a recall does not mean the vehicle is unreliable. Toyota has had the most recalls lately, however, I do not think it will tarnish their name. Statistically, for North America, Toyota has had more recalls per vehicle than Daimler Chrysler. Interesting trivia. I agree that a recall does not determine reliability and has greater affect on perception. My point is this, recent posts in many topic concerning the Rabbit and VW in general imply that reliability is determined by country of manufacture are incorrect and ridiculous. Japan = Very Reliable Mexico = Unreliable Germany = Somewhat Reliable 
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