I looked seriously at the tc before even looking at the 3. I was initally put off by the cheap feeling parts in the interior, that radio cover is flimsier than an early ninties GM cupholder! Nice looking car for the money and mechanically, should hold up for years.

Once I looked at the 3 hatchback, I was surprised by how nicer all the interior surfaces looked an felt. While not quite up to Audi/BMW standards as far as materials used, they were much better than what is available in the sub $20K segment.

Once I drove the thing, I could not believe how nice and tight it felt. Eyes closed, a passenger would guess they were riding in a $35K vehicle at freeway speeds.

Needless to say, I bought the 3 hatchback, with HIDs, ABS, side airbags, driveout for just under $19K.

actually the 3 was given a best in class review by a womens magazine and voted "most female friendy" also

My wife drives the 3S and loves it....of course so do I. So it's a draw.

She also thinks a Camry is "cute"....i do not....score one chick vote toyota!