Which Mazda 3i to buy?

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Jan 29, 2024 | 06:42 PM

Pwyu1969

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Which Mazda 3i to buy?

Hi all, I currently drive a 2012 3i touring (not skyactive) and am in the market for another Mazda 3 for my college kid. I have three options, (1) 2014 3i Grand Touring Hatchback with manual 6-speed - 133k miles for $7k, (2) 2015 3i Touring Sedan with automatic - 145K miles for $6K, and (3) 2016 3i Touring Hatchback with manual 6-speed - 133k miles for $6k. All of them have had multiple owners, and have been in accidents, which may explain the lower prices. Here are my questions: First, thoughts between the 2014 Grand Touring and 2016 Touring? Same mileage, but for $1000 more I’m getting upgraded package in 2-year older car. Any major changes/upgrades on the 2016? Are the differences and prices negligible? Is Grand Touring that much nicer than Touring? Also, I am budgeting in $1.5K+ for new clutch for either as I expect that to be an expense over the next 100K miles, so really these are $8.5 and $7.5K cars in my mind. Second, how might the 2015 automatic compare to the two manuals? Any considerations? Finally, anything I should be looking at or considering for these options?