My gf drives a Mazda 3 Grand Touring and it's a nicely balanced car. I really enjoy driving it. I have a Corolla LE of a similar year and the 3 is better in just about every way.
If I was to spring for a new car I would get a speed 3 or a focus ST.
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"Your beauty is an aeroplane;
so high, my heart cannot bear the strain." -A.C. Jobim, Triste