[StewtheBassman]

For the hell of it. I've read and heard a ton of good stuff about this car, and it is 28,000cdn less than my 325xi (tax in).

The handling is nice, although I remembered today what a FWD car feels like. I asked to drive the stick, and it is way tighter and shorter than the BMW. Many of you know I hate the Bimmer stick and clutch.

Get this:
rain-sensing wipers
tilt AND telescoping wheel
height adjustment on seat....basically a big guy like me can get real comfy in there
nice interior, not cheapy at all
2.3l 160hp150torque, very competent engine
great mileage
not too noisy
Premium package, leather seats, wheel, sunroof, heated seats is $1000 (freak me out Bimmer's is a ton more!)
I tried the 5 dr hatch, and it is a very versatile and sporty car.

BUT:
no side airbags, not even an option in Canada
no head curtain airbag, not even an option in Canada
no seat heaters without the premium package

My conclusion is that it's an awesome value.
Will I sell my 325xi and get it? No, the 325xi's steering is better and the car is just more "substantial" all around. The Mazda is a great car to punt around town with, and occasionally hit the highway with, but for daily road warfare, country. highway and city, the BMW remains my car of choice, even for $30k more!