After having the Mazda for 5 days we've already done nearly 500 miles in it. We're on holiday in Devon so have done some extra miles this week. It really is a great car. It feels more like a proper car than the Clio, much more comfortable and is very easy to drive. The power is so much more accessible and easy to obtain.
I used to think having 5 doors was crap, 3 door cars look better. But after having the 5 doors I am converted. Because the doors aren't as long at the front, getting out in parking spaces is much easier and unlike the Clio, you can close the door easily and it stays open on the 'notches' better too. The rear doors mean throwing your coat in the back is easy. I had my nan in the car yesterday and not having to flip the seat forward to let her in was so much better (I did offer the front seat up btw!)
Parking sensors are great, the auto cornering xenon's are great, especially as they come on when they're needed. Engine is sweet as a nut and proving to use about as much fuel as the Clio around the local roads. I can't really compare on the motorway until we head home tomorrow because I forgot to reset the trip on the way down here! But it's got cruise control, which is much smoother to use than that in the Clio. it's also got blind spot detection, a centre armrest, comfy part leather seats and an auto dimming mirror, so driving on the motorway is a much more relaxed affair.
Threw it round a few bends yesterday and it easily coped with anything, the brakes are good too. The ride is better than the Clio, as is the quality of everything. I had a rattle in the boot, which I traced to a missing patch of felt on the parcel shelf. After all the car is 2 years old, so I expect a few things. I replaced it with some sticky backed felt usually used for under chair legs. Worked a treat.
So far is the ideal upgrade from the Clio.
