Only had our new Mazda 3 (plain S model w/2.3L engine) for 2-1/2 weeks.
Have not been disappointed.  Handling is great (reminds me of my old VW
Scirocco) and as Dave says, fun to drive.  I'm spoiled having driven a
Mustang 5.0 for years but the lower gearing and torque multiplication from a
start make it acceptable.  Kickdown of transmission at higher speeds (~40mph
in town) is a little slow.  This will be for my son when he turns 16 shortly
because I'm not going to let him drive the Mustang and Mom's car is a
"girl's car" per him.  Wife's first new car was a Mazda GLC which truely was
a Great Little Car.  So this is the wheels for the boy thru high school,
college and a few years thereafter.  Until he gets his license Dad gets the
pleasure of driving a great machine.  If I didn't know better I would swear
it came from Germany.

Dave