[MashinBenzin]

That's a cracking option, I like the SkyActiv philosophy and the looks are spot on.

[TodmordenLad]

Originally Posted by MashinBenzin

That's a cracking option, I like the SkyActiv philosophy and the looks are spot on.

It's the same engine to be found in the higher tune MX-5, plus the new MHEV gubbins. Needs to revved as there's no turbo obviously, but that doesn't bother me, it's a plus in fact. Good old fashioned naturally aspirated driving style.
I'll update after the test drive.

[JustChris]

M3 option a nice choice.

[225]

Originally Posted by TodmordenLad

It's the same engine to be found in the higher tune MX-5, plus the new MHEV gubbins. Needs to revved as there's no turbo obviously, but that doesn't bother me, it's a plus in fact. Good old fashioned naturally aspirated driving style.
I'll update after the test drive.

Nice cars and I really liked my old mazda 6. They do look nice and I applaud Mazda for not going down the turbo route. Evo were none too impressed with one though due to lack of oomph from the engine but they are not your average punter.

[KRS_SN]

saw one in black half an hour ago. Looked good from the front ok from the back. Good luck its a mazda so should be very reliable too.

[TodmordenLad]

Originally Posted by 225

Nice cars and I really liked my old mazda 6. They do look nice and I applaud Mazda for not going down the turbo route. Evo were none too impressed with one though due to lack of oomph from the engine but they are not your average punter.

Yes, Evo weren't too impressed a while back. The latest e-Skyactiv X is a 186ps/240Nm motor - although its hardly going to get your pulse racing, admittedly. It's the steering, handling, comfort and refinement that I'm most interested in though.

[DougMcL]

I reckon that's a great choice. The new 3 is supposed to be up there with premium brands in terms of NVH and interior quality. Apparently the engines sound weird though....

[mikeoz]

Originally Posted by JustChris

Oh yes thanks. Another thing in JLRs that is a no no for me is the slightly girly gear selector wheel... but they changed that in the update too. Pistol shifter is mega as per Alan's interior and the RRS FType etc and dare I say it better than some German versions 🤔

View out and in the gym today heavy squat day it is.

Inspiring workout view

[JR1664]

Originally Posted by TodmordenLad

Yes, Evo weren't too impressed a while back. The latest e-Skyactiv X is a 186ps/240Nm motor - although its hardly going to get your pulse racing, admittedly. It's the steering, handling, comfort and refinement that I'm most interested in though.

Complete left field but if it doesn't work out might be worth looking at a Lexus IS300h. In F sport guise the handling is decent, 2.5 litre 4 pot but the CVT might take some getting used to.

Naturally, comfort, reliability and refinement are well up there.

The only issue is they're being discontinued in the UK so not many new ones left but plenty of ex demos. Lexus are going full steam down the SUV route which is a damned shame.

[TodmordenLad]

Originally Posted by DougMcL

I reckon that's a great choice. The new 3 is supposed to be up there with premium brands in terms of NVH and interior quality. Apparently the engines sound weird though....

Yes, the drive will be interesting, am expecting to be disappointed with the power tbh, even though I'm not looking for performance in this car. Got a test booked for next week.

They've brought out a turbo charged AWD version of the 2.5l engine in the Mazda 3 in the US, producing 250hp and 420Nm. Sadly it's not available in the UK, sounds like it would be a hoot in the 3.

[Sennen]

That Mazda is a nice looking car and it is great to see Mazda persevering with the NA Engine, its not always about outright power, delivery is just as important and NA offers it in spades.

Having said that if EVO think it isnt up to much, it probably isnt, they always seem spot on with their car appraisals.

[TodmordenLad]

Originally Posted by Sennen

That Mazda is a nice looking car and it is great to see Mazda persevering with the NA Engine, its not always about outright power, delivery is just as important and NA offers it in spades.

Having said that if EVO think it isnt up to much, it probably isnt, they always seem spot on with their car appraisals.

Yes, I know what you mean about Evo.
The latest engine with the mild hybrid gubbins however has had quite a few changes made so we'll have to see. Test driving next week.
I don't think the power at 186ps will be the issue but rather the torque, which is low at 240Nm. I like the idea of driving something a bit different but if it's cr*p, then I'll be back to more mainstream choices.

[225]

Really is a shame they do not make the mps range any more, cracking cars and under the radar. I guess mazda know their market though and let's be honest most of us on here after the swifter cars around today so are not their target market.