We've been borrowing the in-laws' spare car since we've been here in Brissie (6 weeks) so it's about time we started looking at buying our own.

We're after something along the size of a Focus/Astra/Corolla/Mazda 3 so just wondered if anyone had any thoughts or recommendations? We like the look of the Mazda 3 but is it any good? Better (or worse) than those others?

We'll prob buy new, but not totally sure (any thoughts?). This is my first ever car (and I'm 30 years old!) as we've been living in London and not needed one, so I don't really know what I'm doing!

Any advice gratefully received

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Was considering exactly the same cars 3 months ago- ended up with a focus.....not sure if i should have got the corolla though..hmmm

We've had a Mazda 3 for 4 years and can't fault it. A couple of minor faults were fixed under warranty but no other problems.

Ive got a new Mazda 2, 5 door bought it 5 months ago when we landed and its been great no problems with it at all. Im not sure if there is much room difference inside to the Mazda 3. But they are nice cars. Good luck

I have a Mazda2. Had it since December 2007. No issues.

We had a mazda 6 estate in the UK & sold it to come here - fab car, no issues at all & the servicing was good value for money too!! I rate it tops.

Cool, all good to know. Thanks guys.