Retiring Mr. Acura-San, the best car ever
July 11, 2012 10:09 AM Subscribe
Help me find a sweet little hatchback.
After 13 years and a recent car accident, it's probably time to retire my beloved low-mileage 1999 Acura Integra hatchback. If they still made this car, I would just buy another one. I've been hunting around, but nothing makes my heart sing. Pretty flexible on price. Here is what I am looking for:
-sporty hatchback (I have biking stuff that's geared for a hatchback and like the flexibility in being able to haul a 7' ladder on occasion)
-fun to drive
-decent gas mileage
-reliable
I wish I liked the Honda Fit or the Insight or the Mini Cooper, but they do not do it for me aesthetically (ditto the Prius). Here is what I've been looking at: Ford Focus (not as fun to drive as current car), Nissan Versa (ditto), and some others I haven't driven yet: 1) Hyundai Elantra Touring, 2) Subaru Impreza WRX (this would be great, but gas mileage is worse than current car), 3) Audi A3, 4) Mazda 3, 5) Lexus CT 200h (maybe don't want a hybrid because I drive so little), 6) Fiat 500 (ack, will I die if someone hits me?) Because I keep cars for so long, I'm probably going to buy a new one.
What do you think of these options, particularly if you own one of these cars? What other options should I be looking at?
After 13 years and a recent car accident, it's probably time to retire my beloved low-mileage 1999 Acura Integra hatchback. If they still made this car, I would just buy another one. I've been hunting around, but nothing makes my heart sing. Pretty flexible on price. Here is what I am looking for:
-sporty hatchback (I have biking stuff that's geared for a hatchback and like the flexibility in being able to haul a 7' ladder on occasion)
-fun to drive
-decent gas mileage
-reliable
I wish I liked the Honda Fit or the Insight or the Mini Cooper, but they do not do it for me aesthetically (ditto the Prius). Here is what I've been looking at: Ford Focus (not as fun to drive as current car), Nissan Versa (ditto), and some others I haven't driven yet: 1) Hyundai Elantra Touring, 2) Subaru Impreza WRX (this would be great, but gas mileage is worse than current car), 3) Audi A3, 4) Mazda 3, 5) Lexus CT 200h (maybe don't want a hybrid because I drive so little), 6) Fiat 500 (ack, will I die if someone hits me?) Because I keep cars for so long, I'm probably going to buy a new one.
What do you think of these options, particularly if you own one of these cars? What other options should I be looking at?
Response by poster: Oh, and one other consideration -- automatic transmission.
posted by *s at 10:12 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by *s at 10:12 AM on July 11, 2012
Well, the Elantra Touring is going away in favor of the Elantra GT. Not sure if that changes your outlook or not. I'd take a look at the Veloster Turbo if I were in your slot.
posted by skittlekicks at 10:14 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by skittlekicks at 10:14 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
Have you checked out the Volvo C30 or the Hyundai Veloster? I really like the looks of both. And I think they're coming out with a quicker version of the Veloster soon, in case that matters.
posted by Grither at 10:15 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by Grither at 10:15 AM on July 11, 2012
I've driven the Versa as a rental a few times and I liked it quite a bit, not as much as my Fit but I would definitely consider it as an option. Not so hot on the gas mileage though, if I remember correctly (again comparing to the Fit).
posted by Currer Belfry at 10:16 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by Currer Belfry at 10:16 AM on July 11, 2012
If you don't want a hybrid because of how little you drive, why is gas milage one of your top priorities?
I also have no idea how a Honda Insight would have made your list but for its looks, but a Ford Focus is "not fun enough".
The WRX only comes in a manual transmission.
Get a Golf GTI.
posted by tylerkaraszewski at 10:16 AM on July 11, 2012
I also have no idea how a Honda Insight would have made your list but for its looks, but a Ford Focus is "not fun enough".
The WRX only comes in a manual transmission.
Get a Golf GTI.
posted by tylerkaraszewski at 10:16 AM on July 11, 2012
I seriously love my Ford Focus ZX5, which now has 80,000 miles on it. Can't speak to how fun it is to drive because I'm very utilitarian about driving, but it handles very well. Except for one glitch with the engine that was fully covered by the initial warranty, it has never needed any major repairs.
posted by summer sock at 10:18 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by summer sock at 10:18 AM on July 11, 2012
I have a 3-door Focus from 2003 and it's a fine car. The best thing about it is that you can seriously fit anything in that car. It's also fairly inexpensive new (or it was when I bought it 8.5 years ago).
I probably wouldn't recommend the Focus to you, though. Although it's serviceable, it's not super fun to drive, and nonessential parts (lock cylinder, cd player, automatic door locks, plastic bits that seem to have no purpose) have broken a lot on mine. The worst is the automatic door lock, which screams every time I lock or unlock the vehicle, causing everyone in the parking lot to look at me and my car. Also, the mileage is nothing to write home about.
Whenever it comes time to replace it, I won't be getting another Focus.
posted by k8lin at 10:19 AM on July 11, 2012
I probably wouldn't recommend the Focus to you, though. Although it's serviceable, it's not super fun to drive, and nonessential parts (lock cylinder, cd player, automatic door locks, plastic bits that seem to have no purpose) have broken a lot on mine. The worst is the automatic door lock, which screams every time I lock or unlock the vehicle, causing everyone in the parking lot to look at me and my car. Also, the mileage is nothing to write home about.
Whenever it comes time to replace it, I won't be getting another Focus.
posted by k8lin at 10:19 AM on July 11, 2012
I forgot to add that I'm not particularly hard on my car; it has about 50,000 miles on it and was bought new almost 9 years ago.
posted by k8lin at 10:20 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by k8lin at 10:20 AM on July 11, 2012
I love my Nissan Versa. I got the luxury passage and it seriously burned by ass to basically spend $3K for a sunroof. But I love the interior room and visibility.
posted by BibiRose at 10:20 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by BibiRose at 10:20 AM on July 11, 2012
You want fun to drive get the MazdaSpeed3, 280hp, fun, fun, fun. And a steal.
posted by Cosine at 10:25 AM on July 11, 2012 [2 favorites]
posted by Cosine at 10:25 AM on July 11, 2012 [2 favorites]
Best answer: You want a Mazda 3.
I'm not at all a car enthusiast, but because I don't own a car I end up driving a variety of rentals. Of the ones on your list that I've driven, the Mazda 3 clearly stands out.
See this NY Times review for more.
posted by Mr.Know-it-some at 10:28 AM on July 11, 2012 [2 favorites]
I'm not at all a car enthusiast, but because I don't own a car I end up driving a variety of rentals. Of the ones on your list that I've driven, the Mazda 3 clearly stands out.
See this NY Times review for more.
posted by Mr.Know-it-some at 10:28 AM on July 11, 2012 [2 favorites]
I am currently going through this exact same process (except my beloved 14 yr old Honda was stolen)! I have looked at most of the ones you listed plus the Chevy Sonic, and have narrowed it down to the new Mazda3 i and the Subaru Impreza (not the WRX though). The Mazda3 i is super fun to drive to me (keep in mind I was driving a Civic) and the SkyActiv models get up to 39 mpg! The non-WRX Impreza's get way better fuel efficiency and the 'Sport' level trim is pretty nice. I'm really learning towards the Mazda3, especially after driving it. Good luck in your search!
posted by TNOTGILL at 10:29 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by TNOTGILL at 10:29 AM on July 11, 2012
Have you looked at any Scions? The TC might fit your Integra aesthetic.
posted by sageleaf at 10:39 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by sageleaf at 10:39 AM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: I have a 2010 Mazda 3 Sport 3.5 5-door - very fun to drive, and good on gas - especially on the highway. Some reviews say it gets BMW performance levels.
No mechanical problems for me, and the maintenance schedule is very light. Apart from a couple of rattles in the dash which seemed to come and go (infrequently), the car has been a joy to own. My dealership also didn't make me want to take a bath after talking with them.
Free roadside assistance was nice too, the one day I got hung up on a snowbank.
posted by Intrepid at 10:39 AM on July 11, 2012
No mechanical problems for me, and the maintenance schedule is very light. Apart from a couple of rattles in the dash which seemed to come and go (infrequently), the car has been a joy to own. My dealership also didn't make me want to take a bath after talking with them.
Free roadside assistance was nice too, the one day I got hung up on a snowbank.
posted by Intrepid at 10:39 AM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: Another perpetual renter chiming in: the Mazda3 is the second-most-fun, second-easiest, and all around second-best car I've ever driving (and I've driven lots). Mini Cooper takes the first spot, but you nixed the poor thing.
posted by AmandaA at 10:41 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by AmandaA at 10:41 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
Best answer: I adore my Mazda 3. The grand touring is pretty sporty. I looked at the Fit too, but the Mazda is miles above it in fit and finish.
posted by matildaben at 10:43 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by matildaben at 10:43 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
Nthing the Hyundai Veloster. We bought one, and it's def sporty, great on mileage (how does 50 m.p.g on the freeway grab you?) and my husband uses it to haul his paint gear (including, yes, a ladder) from time to time. We LOVE our Veloster! Bonus: we got the one with the 18" wheels and the subwoofer system so it looks amazing and has a killer stereo w/Bluetooth. Love love love this car!
posted by Lynsey at 10:44 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by Lynsey at 10:44 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
I have the Elantra Touring and was basically looking for the same features you are. What sold it was
1) A six foot deep storage area with the back seats down (I could sleep in it if I had to)
2) I can and have carried a 16 foot canoe on the roof racks (sold separately)
3) Low price, and so far quite reliable.
posted by rocket88 at 10:45 AM on July 11, 2012
1) A six foot deep storage area with the back seats down (I could sleep in it if I had to)
2) I can and have carried a 16 foot canoe on the roof racks (sold separately)
3) Low price, and so far quite reliable.
posted by rocket88 at 10:45 AM on July 11, 2012
I have a 2010 Mazda 3 Sport 3.5
How did you get one with the 3.5 engine? Tell me! Want!
;)
posted by Cosine at 10:46 AM on July 11, 2012
How did you get one with the 3.5 engine? Tell me! Want!
;)
posted by Cosine at 10:46 AM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: except my beloved 14 yr old Honda was stolen
My story exactly! Except it was in 2008. We bought a 2000 Honda Civic hatch to replace it because we didn't want to switch brands.
We're definitely looking at the Nissan Versa for our next car, but the mileage is not stellar. I am also a frequent renter/ZipCar-er, and I love the Mazda3. (Not an option for us as our beloved mechanic doesn't fix Mazdas, alas.)
So I would say Mazda3. The Audi A3 automatic has an unwieldy drive from my perspective. And you won't be able to fit a 7-foot ladder in a Fiat 500, no how, no way.
posted by Sidhedevil at 10:46 AM on July 11, 2012
My story exactly! Except it was in 2008. We bought a 2000 Honda Civic hatch to replace it because we didn't want to switch brands.
We're definitely looking at the Nissan Versa for our next car, but the mileage is not stellar. I am also a frequent renter/ZipCar-er, and I love the Mazda3. (Not an option for us as our beloved mechanic doesn't fix Mazdas, alas.)
So I would say Mazda3. The Audi A3 automatic has an unwieldy drive from my perspective. And you won't be able to fit a 7-foot ladder in a Fiat 500, no how, no way.
posted by Sidhedevil at 10:46 AM on July 11, 2012
I'd skip the Fiat, as its pretty tiny --- I just drove one for several days, and while it was cute and fun to drive, I'm glad I didn't need to shove somebody in the back seat (miniscule knee room back there) or haul stuff (the hatchback has room for maybe two bags of groceries, three tops.) I enjoyed driving it, but would I buy one? Sorry, no. Plus it's got the biggest electronic key fob I've ever seen, and it's actually a bit of a pain getting that thing in and out of the ignition.
The Minis are fun to drive too, and they actually have decent front and rear passenger and storage room (especially the Clubwagon); unfortunately while they get 40 miles to the gallon, they do it on premium gasoline --- and there are plenty of other cars out there getting 40mpg, but on the cheaper gas! (Ditto for Smartcars and the premium gas, by the way.)
If I had to get another car today, I'd get a Honda Fit: yeah, it's boring (wtf, Honda: doesn't anybody there have a sense of style?!?), it's also reliable, cheap to buy and cheap to own, and actually has a surprisingly large cargo capacity --- I know someone who has to haul his sister's wheelchair around all the time, and it fits with lots of extra space, plus the rear seats fold flat for more room.
posted by easily confused at 10:50 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
The Minis are fun to drive too, and they actually have decent front and rear passenger and storage room (especially the Clubwagon); unfortunately while they get 40 miles to the gallon, they do it on premium gasoline --- and there are plenty of other cars out there getting 40mpg, but on the cheaper gas! (Ditto for Smartcars and the premium gas, by the way.)
If I had to get another car today, I'd get a Honda Fit: yeah, it's boring (wtf, Honda: doesn't anybody there have a sense of style?!?), it's also reliable, cheap to buy and cheap to own, and actually has a surprisingly large cargo capacity --- I know someone who has to haul his sister's wheelchair around all the time, and it fits with lots of extra space, plus the rear seats fold flat for more room.
posted by easily confused at 10:50 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
How did you get one with the 3.5 engine? Tell me! Want!
Whoops! Make that 2.5
posted by Intrepid at 10:53 AM on July 11, 2012
Whoops! Make that 2.5
posted by Intrepid at 10:53 AM on July 11, 2012
How did you get one with the 3.5 engine? Tell me! Want!
Whoops! Make that 2.5
Damn, you had me set to trade mine in! ;)
posted by Cosine at 10:54 AM on July 11, 2012
Whoops! Make that 2.5
Damn, you had me set to trade mine in! ;)
posted by Cosine at 10:54 AM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: Check out the VW GTI and the Mazda 3. They're comparable cars with some significant differences, but both are at the top of the hot hatch category, which is what it sounds like you're looking for. I went with the new GTI and love it. Feels like an Audi, and it's small and quick. Car and Driver has some nice writeups on both cars. This review is a bit out of date, but gives you an idea of the hot hatch field.
posted by craven_morhead at 10:56 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by craven_morhead at 10:56 AM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: I went through the same thing in 2004, and I went with a 2002 VW GTI V6. As much as I absolutely love my car... it pains me to say it, but I kinda wish I'd gone with the Mazda 3. The VW has just had so many stupid little problems over the years that I've never considered it a particularly reliable car. It is incredibly fun to drive though, and the mileage is good.
Have you looked at the Toyota Matrix? I think it's a little less ugly than the Prius.
posted by gatorae at 10:57 AM on July 11, 2012
Have you looked at the Toyota Matrix? I think it's a little less ugly than the Prius.
posted by gatorae at 10:57 AM on July 11, 2012
Like Lynster, I really love my Veloster, though I would have said you'd not be able to get a 7' ladder in there... I've never had the rain off the roof problem that The World Famous mentions, though it seems to be real for a lot of people. I know some folks on the forums have had success with adding a strip of protective door edging to the edges of the hatch and channeling the rain that way.
It's worth a test drive if you are already looking at Elantras, for sure.
posted by Rock Steady at 11:13 AM on July 11, 2012
It's worth a test drive if you are already looking at Elantras, for sure.
posted by Rock Steady at 11:13 AM on July 11, 2012
Not Lynster, Lynsey!
posted by Rock Steady at 11:13 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by Rock Steady at 11:13 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
Best answer: I should add that I have a 2007 Mazda3 and could not be happier with it, seriously. The seat could be more supportive but that is am much me as the seat (large).
The hatch holds a stunning amount of stuff, I renovated our place using the Mazda as my parts hauler and it did great, the thing can hold 2 2x8 sheets of plywood for goodness sake.
posted by Cosine at 11:15 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
The hatch holds a stunning amount of stuff, I renovated our place using the Mazda as my parts hauler and it did great, the thing can hold 2 2x8 sheets of plywood for goodness sake.
posted by Cosine at 11:15 AM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
Best answer: Mazda's are freakishly fun to drive. I am not a car person, spouse is not a car person, we bought matching Mazda 3 hatchbacks 3 months ago (trading in a civic hybrid and a mazda 5) and have had the best time driving them. My brother and my best friend also have Mazda 3 hatchbacks and love them. I've owned 4 Mazda's so far and they are notably more fun to drive then other cars. I have also not had any notable mechanical or reliability issues, and they have a great amount of space for their size.
posted by dadici at 11:18 AM on July 11, 2012 [2 favorites]
posted by dadici at 11:18 AM on July 11, 2012 [2 favorites]
Biking enthusiast in my office has the Hyundai Veloster, and I was coming in here to say take a look at it. I see I've been beaten to the punch, but fyi, it's a great looking car and my coworker is happy with it.
posted by Medieval Maven at 11:22 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by Medieval Maven at 11:22 AM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: I used to have a '91 Integra that I loved with all my heart. I now have a 2011 Elantra Touring and it's great too, but really nothing like the Integra except that both have generous cargo space. The Elantra Touring is perfect for what my lifestyle currently requires, namely a big safe family car with room for lots of stuff but still relatively "sporty" and fun. Buuuut I would not say it really replaces the hole that Integra left in my heart! I think the Mazda 3 hatchback would be much closer in terms of being a little more powerful and fun-to-drive. And the Scion TC might be worth a test drive too--I love the way they look, the styling really reminds me of the old Integras. Never bothered with a test drive, though, since I knew I wouldn't want to deal with a baby in the backseat of a 2-door car.
posted by Jemstar at 11:23 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by Jemstar at 11:23 AM on July 11, 2012
I LOOOOVE my Toyota Matrix but it might look too much like a Fit for you. But gets good mileage, very reliable, and was very helpful as a "truck" when we were building our veggie garden.
posted by Bonky Moon at 11:24 AM on July 11, 2012
posted by Bonky Moon at 11:24 AM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: I don't own a Mazda 3, but I loved the one I drove as a rental, so when it was car-buying time, I looked at getting a new one. Loved it in the test drives, loved the features, etc. But, I couldn't reach a reasonable deal, so I kept looking.
All that to say, the Mazda 3 was my "gold standard" in comparing other cars. I ended buying a Kia Forte Koup (2010) and was extremely impressed, even when compared to the Mazda. Handling is not quite as good, but still nimble and fun, but with more features for the money, a better style (in my opinion), and nicely finished interior. If I were in the market for a hatchback, I'd certainy put the Kia Forte Hatchback on my list. reviews confirm my impression that it's not the most aggressive-driving vehicle, but you should certainly take on for a spin before you make your final choice.
Of course, there's also the funkier, but shorter Kia Soul if youre tastes run that way. Never driven one myself.
posted by The Deej at 12:00 PM on July 11, 2012
All that to say, the Mazda 3 was my "gold standard" in comparing other cars. I ended buying a Kia Forte Koup (2010) and was extremely impressed, even when compared to the Mazda. Handling is not quite as good, but still nimble and fun, but with more features for the money, a better style (in my opinion), and nicely finished interior. If I were in the market for a hatchback, I'd certainy put the Kia Forte Hatchback on my list. reviews confirm my impression that it's not the most aggressive-driving vehicle, but you should certainly take on for a spin before you make your final choice.
Of course, there's also the funkier, but shorter Kia Soul if youre tastes run that way. Never driven one myself.
posted by The Deej at 12:00 PM on July 11, 2012
Golf TDI if you really, really care about gas mileage, and a Golf GTI if you care more about fun (and saving some money). If you could handle the maintenance on an Acura, you can probably handle a VW.
PS: Hatchbacks are the best!
posted by ablazingsaddle at 12:11 PM on July 11, 2012
PS: Hatchbacks are the best!
posted by ablazingsaddle at 12:11 PM on July 11, 2012
I loved my Acura Integra. I'm now in a great relationship with my Honda Accord, with a V6 engine.
Husbunny loves his Element.
Have you thought about a Civic?
I sure do miss the old Acura body style. If you don't care how much you spend, the Acura ZDX is something to check out.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 12:34 PM on July 11, 2012
Husbunny loves his Element.
Have you thought about a Civic?
I sure do miss the old Acura body style. If you don't care how much you spend, the Acura ZDX is something to check out.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 12:34 PM on July 11, 2012
I have a '12 Accent, basically the same as the Veloster with a bit less oomphy suspension - Second most fun car I've owned (first was my 02 Mini that died a horrible death). Not the sportiest, but fun to toss around, good mileage, decent room. Just an option to check out, and you get a real hatchback.
On the other hand, the new Elantra GT is a bit bigger and cushier and looks like a lot of fun.
posted by pupdog at 1:10 PM on July 11, 2012
On the other hand, the new Elantra GT is a bit bigger and cushier and looks like a lot of fun.
posted by pupdog at 1:10 PM on July 11, 2012
Why not a used Acura RSX? It is the successor to the Integra.
posted by twblalock at 1:18 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by twblalock at 1:18 PM on July 11, 2012
I love hot hatches! I also enjoy driving, and I'm picky about the way a car feels to drive. If I were you, I would go and test drive the A3, the Mazda 3 and a VW GTI. For me, its all about the way the car feels when I test drive it.
The mini cooper is really, really awesome to drive, and I feel you would enjoy it, but tbh I don't think a car that small will suit your biking needs, assuming you intend to put a bike inside it.
I used to own a VW GTI, and it was quite fun to drive, but the build quality was crappy, buts of it just kept falling off. Then I owned an Audi, which was superb and I still miss that car (sniff). So I'd be looking at an A3 personally, or a used A4 wagon.
posted by Joh at 1:45 PM on July 11, 2012
The mini cooper is really, really awesome to drive, and I feel you would enjoy it, but tbh I don't think a car that small will suit your biking needs, assuming you intend to put a bike inside it.
I used to own a VW GTI, and it was quite fun to drive, but the build quality was crappy, buts of it just kept falling off. Then I owned an Audi, which was superb and I still miss that car (sniff). So I'd be looking at an A3 personally, or a used A4 wagon.
posted by Joh at 1:45 PM on July 11, 2012
Response by poster: Why not a used Acura RSX? It is the successor to the Integra.
I actually just checked this out yesterday -- they quit making them in 2006. It would be hard to find one with under the 80K miles that my current car has -- so probably not worth it.
posted by *s at 1:46 PM on July 11, 2012
I actually just checked this out yesterday -- they quit making them in 2006. It would be hard to find one with under the 80K miles that my current car has -- so probably not worth it.
posted by *s at 1:46 PM on July 11, 2012
Friend of mine just went through this same process and ended up choosing the Impreza. She said it was the driving experience that made the final difference between it and several others already mentioned here.
posted by blurker at 1:51 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by blurker at 1:51 PM on July 11, 2012
Look into a 2012 impreza sport. Its pretty much the wrx but with much better gas milage.
also if you can wait look into the 2013 impreza xv crosstek. ITs the impreza sport but higher off the ground and some other little changes.
posted by majortom1981 at 1:52 PM on July 11, 2012
also if you can wait look into the 2013 impreza xv crosstek. ITs the impreza sport but higher off the ground and some other little changes.
posted by majortom1981 at 1:52 PM on July 11, 2012
I recently bought a hatchback and drove or considered most of the cars on your list. I ended up buying a Volvo C30 (and I freaking LOVE IT) so I'd also put that on the list to test drive in your case.
posted by marylynn at 2:00 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by marylynn at 2:00 PM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: I have a friend who had your precise requirements, and he bought a Mazda3. He loves it.
posted by imjustsaying at 2:09 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by imjustsaying at 2:09 PM on July 11, 2012
Joining the chorus recommending the Mazda 3. I have one (2011, 2.3L 5-door) and I absolutely love it! It's super fun to drive, and the cabin controls are nicely laid out for the most part. The back seat is surprisingly roomy (not actually roomy, but surprisingly not tiny). Really great car all around.
I'll also second the recommendation to check out the Scion TC. My boyfriend has one, and he really, really likes it. It's a little sportier than the Mazda, and has a surprisingly huge amount of cargo space. If you've written it off because it looks more like a coupe than a hatchback, you should check one out in person. The whole back opens up. I think it may hold more than the 3; it certainly has a larger opening. Personally, I can't stand the way the controls in the center console are laid out but that probably matters way less to most people than it does to me.
posted by duien at 2:50 PM on July 11, 2012
I'll also second the recommendation to check out the Scion TC. My boyfriend has one, and he really, really likes it. It's a little sportier than the Mazda, and has a surprisingly huge amount of cargo space. If you've written it off because it looks more like a coupe than a hatchback, you should check one out in person. The whole back opens up. I think it may hold more than the 3; it certainly has a larger opening. Personally, I can't stand the way the controls in the center console are laid out but that probably matters way less to most people than it does to me.
posted by duien at 2:50 PM on July 11, 2012
Have you thought about a Civic?
The last model year Civic hatchbacks were sold in North America was 2005, and there were very few shipped for sale in North America between 2002 and 2005. Finding a Civic hatch that isn't 10+ years old is really difficult.
posted by Sidhedevil at 4:20 PM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
The last model year Civic hatchbacks were sold in North America was 2005, and there were very few shipped for sale in North America between 2002 and 2005. Finding a Civic hatch that isn't 10+ years old is really difficult.
posted by Sidhedevil at 4:20 PM on July 11, 2012 [1 favorite]
I have a 2010 Mazda 3 GT. I like the heated seats and the sunroof. I think it's a bit loud though and the mileage isn't that great (my previous car was a 1990 Corolla.)
When I went to buy it, I rode my bike there and put the bike in the back to get home.
posted by vespabelle at 4:50 PM on July 11, 2012
When I went to buy it, I rode my bike there and put the bike in the back to get home.
posted by vespabelle at 4:50 PM on July 11, 2012
Honda crosstour hatchback 2012
posted by cynicalidealist at 5:12 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by cynicalidealist at 5:12 PM on July 11, 2012
Best answer: I love my Mazda3 (I have the i touring, not the hatch). The gas mileage isn't quite as good as my Civic was but its much more fun to drive. It has gotten me out of a tight spot or two when I needed it to. It was also totally worth paying extra for the Bose Stereo/moonroof package.
posted by Nolechick11 at 5:17 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by Nolechick11 at 5:17 PM on July 11, 2012
The Crosstour is being redesigned for 2013, and the redesign looks much better than the current.
posted by Sidhedevil at 5:39 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by Sidhedevil at 5:39 PM on July 11, 2012
As someone who had an Acura RSX (basically, the new version of your Integra) I'd first ask if you're open to a used RSX. They stopped making them in 2006, so you'd be buying, at best, a six year old car.
Others here have mentioned the VW GTI, it's what I've got now. I had a Mini, which was fun, but it was tons of maintenance. In it's defense, it was used. The GTI is doing awesome, just rolled 20k miles at 13 months of ownership and it drives like it did the first day off the lot. Time will tell with this car.
The Mazda 3 looks fun, but I haven't been in one in a while, though I did test drive a Miata a year ago.
posted by Brian Puccio at 7:14 PM on July 11, 2012
Others here have mentioned the VW GTI, it's what I've got now. I had a Mini, which was fun, but it was tons of maintenance. In it's defense, it was used. The GTI is doing awesome, just rolled 20k miles at 13 months of ownership and it drives like it did the first day off the lot. Time will tell with this car.
The Mazda 3 looks fun, but I haven't been in one in a while, though I did test drive a Miata a year ago.
posted by Brian Puccio at 7:14 PM on July 11, 2012
Oops, you've already ruled out the RSX, sorry.
posted by Brian Puccio at 7:14 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by Brian Puccio at 7:14 PM on July 11, 2012
I have a 2001 Integra and just crashed it not even an hour ago. I've been eyeballing new and gently used cars for a few months and I've read an overwhelming number of positive reviews of the Mazda 3. Maybe sign up for the Consumer Reports website for a month ($6-$7) and read what they have to say.
posted by bendy at 7:57 PM on July 11, 2012
posted by bendy at 7:57 PM on July 11, 2012
Golf TDI if you really, really care about gas mileage
No joke. It's common to achieve 50 MPG on cruise control at reasonable highway speeds. For me, getting 400 miles to a tank (14.5 gal) requires minimal effort, and achieving 600 is not a superhuman challenge. You get hybrid-class economy with a sportier, better-handling drive. I've been very happy with mine.
I can't say enough about how nice the cloth seats are, either.
posted by secret about box at 2:19 AM on July 12, 2012
No joke. It's common to achieve 50 MPG on cruise control at reasonable highway speeds. For me, getting 400 miles to a tank (14.5 gal) requires minimal effort, and achieving 600 is not a superhuman challenge. You get hybrid-class economy with a sportier, better-handling drive. I've been very happy with mine.
I can't say enough about how nice the cloth seats are, either.
posted by secret about box at 2:19 AM on July 12, 2012
(Mine is a 2012 4-door w/automatic DSG transmission.)
posted by secret about box at 2:22 AM on July 12, 2012
posted by secret about box at 2:22 AM on July 12, 2012
Best answer: I love my 2011 Mazda 3 5-door (Grand Touring). It's a blast to drive, and I'm so glad I have a hatchback again.
posted by getawaysticks at 7:26 AM on July 12, 2012
posted by getawaysticks at 7:26 AM on July 12, 2012
I just bought a 2012 Mazda 3 5-door with the Skyactiv engine. The Skyactiv engine is ~$500 more than the base model, but it gets 38 on the highway, which more than pays for the $500.
I love it. It drives well, shifts smoothly, and I can fit a bike in the back without taking off the wheel. I don't always feel like it accelerates well, but my previous car was a Nissan Maxima with too much horsepower, so my comparison is probably unfair.
posted by Turkey Glue at 8:30 AM on July 12, 2012
I love it. It drives well, shifts smoothly, and I can fit a bike in the back without taking off the wheel. I don't always feel like it accelerates well, but my previous car was a Nissan Maxima with too much horsepower, so my comparison is probably unfair.
posted by Turkey Glue at 8:30 AM on July 12, 2012
I don't love the looks of the Hinda Fit, but I just spent some time riding around in one, and driving it a bit. I really liked it.
posted by theora55 at 8:31 AM on July 12, 2012
posted by theora55 at 8:31 AM on July 12, 2012
Condensing the above:
* Elantra - Sporty, Reliable, Good mileage. This will be a better drive than the Versa, but not as good as the Mazda.
* Impreza - Hits all but the gas mileage.
* Audi - Reliability is likely to be a problem with the Audi.
* Mazda 3 - Hits all four. This is a really fun to drive car for the price. You can push it right to its limit and it never gets out of control.
* Focus - I haven't driven one, but it should meet your other three criteria.
* Lexus - Don't know enough about this car to say. Seems like it might hit all of your criteria, though I don't know how fun it is to drive. Toyota tends to design cars that drive like refrigerators.
You might also add the VW Golf. It meets all of your criteria except (possibly) reliability. Consumer Reports rates this car high in reliability, but a number of VW's cars are extremely unreliable, so I'd do some research before committing.
posted by cnc at 9:12 AM on July 12, 2012
* Elantra - Sporty, Reliable, Good mileage. This will be a better drive than the Versa, but not as good as the Mazda.
* Impreza - Hits all but the gas mileage.
* Audi - Reliability is likely to be a problem with the Audi.
* Mazda 3 - Hits all four. This is a really fun to drive car for the price. You can push it right to its limit and it never gets out of control.
* Focus - I haven't driven one, but it should meet your other three criteria.
* Lexus - Don't know enough about this car to say. Seems like it might hit all of your criteria, though I don't know how fun it is to drive. Toyota tends to design cars that drive like refrigerators.
You might also add the VW Golf. It meets all of your criteria except (possibly) reliability. Consumer Reports rates this car high in reliability, but a number of VW's cars are extremely unreliable, so I'd do some research before committing.
posted by cnc at 9:12 AM on July 12, 2012
I looked at some of the same cars and settled on a Subaru Impreza (non-WRX). I love it. The automatic transmission version has pretty good gas mileage.
posted by mingshan at 10:00 AM on July 13, 2012
posted by mingshan at 10:00 AM on July 13, 2012
Keep in mind that the Mazda 3 and the Ford Focus are actually the same car. The Ford is probably cheaper used.
posted by twblalock at 1:35 PM on July 13, 2012
posted by twblalock at 1:35 PM on July 13, 2012
Response by poster: This weekend, I bought a Mazda3 hatchback with the 2.5 liter (non-skyactiv 42 mpg engine) in graphite with the moonroof/Bose package and I could not be happier. This was far and away the most fun to drive of the cars I checked out (others were Subaru Impreza, Mazda3 with skyactiv, Ford Focus, Volvo c30). I wound up letting the VW Golf go not because it didn't fit the criteria, but because of certain members of my family having moral hesitation around large German-related purchases and because my friends who own other VWs did not like the time and money spent at the shop. Fun to drive and reliability wound up trumping other factors. Thanks everyone for your helpful awesome advice!
posted by *s at 8:00 AM on September 11, 2012
posted by *s at 8:00 AM on September 11, 2012
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by hollisimo at 10:11 AM on July 11, 2012