View Poll Results: AWD or FWD?
AWD you fool!!!
8
66.67%
FWD is the way to go.
2
16.67%
Whiskers
3
25.00%
Multiple Choice Poll. Voters: 12. You may not vote on this poll
2019 Mazda 3 - FWD or AWD?
#41
Senior Moderator
It is quite clear you enjoy taking things entirely out of context; doesn't improved your arguments one bit. As for driving a 2WD car in snow (regardless of whether it is FWD or RWD), they do perfectly well and are more than capable of getting from point A to point B on the few days per year when AWD would provide a clear and undisputed advantage.
The argument I'm making, and the argument which seems to annoy the hell out of you, is when you weigh the advantage for a few days per year versus the extra expense and irrelevance for the rest of the year, AWD isn't worth it, simple as that. Like it or don't, my opinion is AWD is something the manufacturers have taught they cannot do without (except in limited circumstances); your opinion is quite to the contrary, I'm okay with that.
As an aside, if I remember correctly, this isn't the first time you've acted out based upon something I've said and come out of the woodwork to shout me down. Okay, so you don't like me, I'm okay with that too.
Why don't we just agree to disagree and move on.
The argument I'm making, and the argument which seems to annoy the hell out of you, is when you weigh the advantage for a few days per year versus the extra expense and irrelevance for the rest of the year, AWD isn't worth it, simple as that. Like it or don't, my opinion is AWD is something the manufacturers have taught they cannot do without (except in limited circumstances); your opinion is quite to the contrary, I'm okay with that.
As an aside, if I remember correctly, this isn't the first time you've acted out based upon something I've said and come out of the woodwork to shout me down. Okay, so you don't like me, I'm okay with that too.
Why don't we just agree to disagree and move on.
Again, not saying if West6MT goes for the FWD Mazda that he's going to go OMG and regret it next winter esp. if he invests in a good set of tires. Still, the extra traction helps on hills and turns esp. if he's traversing in a blizzard. Just my ...
Last edited by Yumcha; 03-17-2019 at 02:04 PM.
#42
Latent car nut
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southern New Hampshire
Age: 68
Posts: 7,844
Received 2,005 Likes
on
1,407 Posts
To be fair, your point is valid. The drivetrain is a critical factor and if you get the right treads, FWD vs. AWD is going to be manageable. THAT being said, the OP here is in a climate that is very similar to Chicago except for extended winters due to his northbound location on the planet. It makes sense to consider AWD for that extra bit of traction...it's NOT a show-stopper but if he's considering it, the merits are worthwhile. If I were say, in a region where the winters are bit more manageable, then yeah, FWD may be good enough.
Again, not saying if West6MT goes for the FWD Mazda that he's going to go OMG and regret it next winter esp. if he invests in a good set of tires. Still, the extra traction helps on hills and turns esp. if he's traversing in a blizzard. Just my ...
Again, not saying if West6MT goes for the FWD Mazda that he's going to go OMG and regret it next winter esp. if he invests in a good set of tires. Still, the extra traction helps on hills and turns esp. if he's traversing in a blizzard. Just my ...
#43
Senior Moderator
Funny thing though, I live in an area which is MUCH hillier than either the Chicago or Toronto metropolitan areas, and get a third to half again as much snow per year. Slap a set of winter rubber on either an FWD or RWD car not much will stop you until the snow gets so deep the car will be rendered a snow plow.
The Infiniti FX is a RWD vehicle but in snowy days, even with some decent Blizzaks, I'm engaging the full-on AWD mode and staying that way just because that extra bit of grip/traction helps move us forward. Peace of mind is a good thing when dealing with the elements esp. when the visibility isn't great, temperatures are beyond frigid, and you just want to get to your destination.
So, per my post to you and your debate with Sam, you have a point...just saying that having an AWD platform is helpful (the keyword here). Not a show-stopper.
The following users liked this post:
horseshoez (03-17-2019)
#44
Ex-OEM King
It is quite clear you enjoy taking things entirely out of context; doesn't improved your arguments one bit. As for driving a 2WD car in snow (regardless of whether it is FWD or RWD), they do perfectly well and are more than capable of getting from point A to point B on the few days per year when AWD would provide a clear and undisputed advantage.
The argument I'm making, and the argument which seems to annoy the hell out of you, is when you weigh the advantage for a few days per year versus the extra expense and irrelevance for the rest of the year, AWD isn't worth it, simple as that. Like it or don't, my opinion is AWD is something the manufacturers have taught they cannot do without (except in limited circumstances); your opinion is quite to the contrary, I'm okay with that.
As an aside, if I remember correctly, this isn't the first time you've acted out based upon something I've said and come out of the woodwork to shout me down. Okay, so you don't like me, I'm okay with that too.
Why don't we just agree to disagree and move on.
The argument I'm making, and the argument which seems to annoy the hell out of you, is when you weigh the advantage for a few days per year versus the extra expense and irrelevance for the rest of the year, AWD isn't worth it, simple as that. Like it or don't, my opinion is AWD is something the manufacturers have taught they cannot do without (except in limited circumstances); your opinion is quite to the contrary, I'm okay with that.
As an aside, if I remember correctly, this isn't the first time you've acted out based upon something I've said and come out of the woodwork to shout me down. Okay, so you don't like me, I'm okay with that too.
Why don't we just agree to disagree and move on.
Anyway. About your comment that it's only useful a couple days a year or whatever. That's probably very true but if you are buying AWD as a safety/mobility aid then that's exactly what you buy it for. I didn't buy a SawStop table saw because I'll be using the brake feature all the time, I paid extra for the one time that I need it. Ditto for all safety features that are added to cars routinely. If you get stuck once where AWD could have helped and you've paid for the system already. Tows aren't cheap.
Whatever though, it doesn't really matter to me which way OP, or you, go in terms of what drivetrain to buy, I'm just offering my opinion on the matter as someone who lives in an equally snowy/cold area.
Right. This is why I had suggested to West6MT to consider a CX-3 if he's going to get an AWD Mazda. The extra bit of clearance is helpful. Keyword: helpful...without the right treads, it does not matter.
The Infiniti FX is a RWD vehicle but in snowy days, even with some decent Blizzaks, I'm engaging the full-on AWD mode and staying that way just because that extra bit of grip/traction helps move us forward. Peace of mind is a good thing when dealing with the elements esp. when the visibility isn't great, temperatures are beyond frigid, and you just want to get to your destination.
So, per my post to you and your debate with Sam, you have a point...just saying that having an AWD platform is helpful (the keyword here). Not a show-stopper.
The Infiniti FX is a RWD vehicle but in snowy days, even with some decent Blizzaks, I'm engaging the full-on AWD mode and staying that way just because that extra bit of grip/traction helps move us forward. Peace of mind is a good thing when dealing with the elements esp. when the visibility isn't great, temperatures are beyond frigid, and you just want to get to your destination.
So, per my post to you and your debate with Sam, you have a point...just saying that having an AWD platform is helpful (the keyword here). Not a show-stopper.
#45
Senior Moderator
Thread Starter
Okay...then, for sure, this warrants the extra bit of $$ for the AWD drive-train sir. Speaking of the CX-3, have you considered the hot hatch? It's got a touch more clearance but is fantastically practical for a small crossover. Nimble and fun are the 2 words I would best describe it in my times test-driving the car and putting it through the paces a bit when I was shopping with my Mom. Albeit, the Mazda3 is fantastic too but if you have more snow, you may find that extra smidge of clearance a bit more peace of mind. Given you are in Ontario, I also think the plastic wheel-wheels as per the CX-3 may be longer-lasting than the all-metal format for the sedan. Again, something to ponder.
Color-wise, I like the gray and again, given the longer and sloppier winters, find that color to be a bit more manageable? This is not really factor per se...just a thought.
Color-wise, I like the gray and again, given the longer and sloppier winters, find that color to be a bit more manageable? This is not really factor per se...just a thought.
Yeah, I saw a dirty red mazda today, and thought to myself,...it's the Polymetal grey for me. I mean really,...
I do go up north sometimes in winter to Provincial/National parks (lately friends have been driving), which can mean some more intense snow/winter conditions you cannot always avoid. Although I have seen some fairly deep snow before up north, I don't think that's common enough to warrant a higher ride height vehicle (although that would be handy once in a blue moon - borrowed my dad's escape once, and it came in handy in a deep parking lot). Generally it can be avoided (like an unplowed road/parking lot) unless it's a crazy snow dump and the plows haven't been down roads yet where you're travelling. The city I live in now gets more snow than Toronto. I was away for like 4 days one week this winter, and when I came home there was a good foot of snow in the driveway. Toronto had almost nothing during that same period (family there). I do live in a relatively flat area, and my commute is flat as well.
Last edited by West6MT; 03-17-2019 at 08:38 PM.
The following users liked this post:
Yumcha (03-17-2019)
#46
Latent car nut
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southern New Hampshire
Age: 68
Posts: 7,844
Received 2,005 Likes
on
1,407 Posts
And don't forget, the Mazda3 GT is a heck of a lot more fun to drive compared to the CX-5.
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-17-2019)
#48
Moderator
Looking forward to seeing more of these on the road, hoping the 5-door looks better in person than in photos.
As far as AWD vs FWD, I live in Houston, so FWD would likely be sufficient for me, but with snow/ice, I think the extra expense for AWD would be worth it.
Colors, I like their Machine Gray & Crystal Blue. The Crystal Blue would've been my choice had I gone with the new 6.
As far as AWD vs FWD, I live in Houston, so FWD would likely be sufficient for me, but with snow/ice, I think the extra expense for AWD would be worth it.
Colors, I like their Machine Gray & Crystal Blue. The Crystal Blue would've been my choice had I gone with the new 6.
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-20-2019)
#50
Senior Moderator
Thread Starter
Looking forward to seeing more of these on the road, hoping the 5-door looks better in person than in photos.
As far as AWD vs FWD, I live in Houston, so FWD would likely be sufficient for me, but with snow/ice, I think the extra expense for AWD would be worth it.
Colors, I like their Machine Gray & Crystal Blue. The Crystal Blue would've been my choice had I gone with the new 6.
As far as AWD vs FWD, I live in Houston, so FWD would likely be sufficient for me, but with snow/ice, I think the extra expense for AWD would be worth it.
Colors, I like their Machine Gray & Crystal Blue. The Crystal Blue would've been my choice had I gone with the new 6.
#51
Ex-OEM King
Thanks @nanxun , I saw that yesterday. There is a media embargo apparently until this Saturday. I am dying to see reviews from certain journalists.
I have been struggling with colours a lot. Most of them are nice, and I actually put in an order on a car,....but I am changing it now I think. Might go black with red inside, or black on black to get the car faster.
I have been struggling with colours a lot. Most of them are nice, and I actually put in an order on a car,....but I am changing it now I think. Might go black with red inside, or black on black to get the car faster.
#53
Latent car nut
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southern New Hampshire
Age: 68
Posts: 7,844
Received 2,005 Likes
on
1,407 Posts
Agreed. We ordered ours late March of 2016 for a May delivery, then "Mother Nature" happened (see link below); we ended up finally taking delivery in July. We don't regret the decision one bit.
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-20-2019)
#54
Ex-OEM King
https://jalopnik.com/the-all-wheel-d...-yo-1833495042
The 2019 Mazda 3 is already smoother and quieter than the previous generation, but, for the first time, it also comes with an all-wheel drive variant. Should you spend some extra cash to send power to all four wheels now? Yes, you absolutely should.Since its inception, the Mazda 3 has been a fun, affordable and fuel-efficient car that stood out…
First off, though, we should ask ourselves, will people even buy this car?
Some people will, surely, but Mazda’s sales numbers reflect some troubling realities in the U.S. market for small sedans and hatchbacks. Sales for the Mazda 3 were down 13.8 percent last year compared to the year before, while sales for the Mazda 6 and Miata were also down. Sales for the company’s line of SUVs, the CX-3, CX-5, and CX-9, however, were up.
These trends are hardly remarkable in an era when Ford has decided to give up on sedans and small altogether, but it’s impressive that, rather than take their toys and go home, Mazda has decided to lean into its image of making small-ish, sensible, fun, well-built cars. The new Mazda 3, in this regard, is no exception, and now it comes with optional AWD.
That option lifts the new Mazda 3 from Good Car to Something Better Than Good Car. Will it be enough? From Mazda’s perspective, it won’t matter; the company has long been all-in on sedans small cars. It has also, quite intentionally so, chosen to zig when everyone else in the industry is zagging. When other companies are investing billions in electric cars, Mazda developed its own “holy grail” gas engine. When others are invested in autonomous driving, Mazda has said, well, fuck that, let’s focus on driving dynamics. Part of this is a function of being a small company, so what seem like choices may in fact be the limited options of a company bound by its own finite resources and need for strategic decisions. Part of it is its own historical legacy, since this is the company that brought us Miata. Mazda remains as small and interesting as ever.
First off, though, we should ask ourselves, will people even buy this car?
Some people will, surely, but Mazda’s sales numbers reflect some troubling realities in the U.S. market for small sedans and hatchbacks. Sales for the Mazda 3 were down 13.8 percent last year compared to the year before, while sales for the Mazda 6 and Miata were also down. Sales for the company’s line of SUVs, the CX-3, CX-5, and CX-9, however, were up.
These trends are hardly remarkable in an era when Ford has decided to give up on sedans and small altogether, but it’s impressive that, rather than take their toys and go home, Mazda has decided to lean into its image of making small-ish, sensible, fun, well-built cars. The new Mazda 3, in this regard, is no exception, and now it comes with optional AWD.
That option lifts the new Mazda 3 from Good Car to Something Better Than Good Car. Will it be enough? From Mazda’s perspective, it won’t matter; the company has long been all-in on sedans small cars. It has also, quite intentionally so, chosen to zig when everyone else in the industry is zagging. When other companies are investing billions in electric cars, Mazda developed its own “holy grail” gas engine. When others are invested in autonomous driving, Mazda has said, well, fuck that, let’s focus on driving dynamics. Part of this is a function of being a small company, so what seem like choices may in fact be the limited options of a company bound by its own finite resources and need for strategic decisions. Part of it is its own historical legacy, since this is the company that brought us Miata. Mazda remains as small and interesting as ever.
#55
Latent car nut
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southern New Hampshire
Age: 68
Posts: 7,844
Received 2,005 Likes
on
1,407 Posts
Then there are the two reasons for not opting for an AWD Mazda3, 1) no manual transmission, and 2) a precipitous drop in fuel economy (much more so than other cars with 2WD and AWD variants).
#57
Moderator
Having had a CLA for a loaner, it's not a stretch, compared to the C117. I imagine the C118 is a huge improvement.
#59
Every car I've bought was manual aside from one - that one being an old SUV that I rarely drive, and it's really, really, really hard to find them in manual. Not everybody goes by the same standards. I think certain features like active cruise control are only available on the auto.
#60
Senior Moderator
#61
Moderator
Overall, the C117 isn't bad, just feels cheap on the inside & has a tight back seat with the sloped roof.
The DCT is a bit jerky at parking lot speeds, but fine once on the move.
Coming from a W205, the C117 feels like a big step down, in loaner/rental guise. I'm sure the loaded up & AMG models are better, but I don't see spending my own $$$ on one.
#62
Someone made a post a long time ago that every mainstream manufacturer makes cars that slowly increase in both size and price, and eventually the mfgs have to introduce a new, smaller model to fill in the void. Not just the C-Class and CLA, but even the Civic and Fit, etc.
A couple of decades ago the C-Class was seen as the almost-poor man's Benz. Don't think anyone feels that way now.
A couple of decades ago the C-Class was seen as the almost-poor man's Benz. Don't think anyone feels that way now.
#63
Latent car nut
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southern New Hampshire
Age: 68
Posts: 7,844
Received 2,005 Likes
on
1,407 Posts
Every car I've bought was manual aside from one - that one being an old SUV that I rarely drive, and it's really, really, really hard to find them in manual. Not everybody goes by the same standards. I think certain features like active cruise control are only available on the auto.
#64
Moderator
Someone made a post a long time ago that every mainstream manufacturer makes cars that slowly increase in both size and price, and eventually the mfgs have to introduce a new, smaller model to fill in the void. Not just the C-Class and CLA, but even the Civic and Fit, etc.
A couple of decades ago the C-Class was seen as the almost-poor man's Benz. Don't think anyone feels that way now.
A couple of decades ago the C-Class was seen as the almost-poor man's Benz. Don't think anyone feels that way now.
The C has definitely elevated in status compared to its 190E roots. Always been a bit of a baby S-class in looks.
#65
Car buying is a very personal experience. Even someone who isn't an enthusiast will care about certain things.
#66
Latent car nut
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southern New Hampshire
Age: 68
Posts: 7,844
Received 2,005 Likes
on
1,407 Posts
That's exactly what I'm saying. A couple of MPGs or an automatic (which most people actually prefer) won't change everyone's mind. Modern AWD systems, especially FWD-based ones can decouple the rear, reducing the drag and fuel economy penalty. AWD doesn't help a car turn or brake better, but in inclement weather it can be a boon.
Car buying is a very personal experience. Even someone who isn't an enthusiast will care about certain things.
Car buying is a very personal experience. Even someone who isn't an enthusiast will care about certain things.
#67
Null and proud of it
Just find someone with an AWD and ask them what they get.
Published MPG numbers are BS, for the most part.
My car is rated at 35 HWY, yet I've never gotten over 28. But my TL was rated at 26 HWY and I got 33.
Published MPG numbers are BS, for the most part.
My car is rated at 35 HWY, yet I've never gotten over 28. But my TL was rated at 26 HWY and I got 33.
#68
Latent car nut
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southern New Hampshire
Age: 68
Posts: 7,844
Received 2,005 Likes
on
1,407 Posts
Meh, I've owned cars from Europe, the Americas, and Asia, and I've never had a car which couldn't handily exceed it's EPA rating. That said, there is a pretty good chance Mazda tested the both versions of the Mazda3 in the same way, so the mileage numbers should be representative (from the perspective of the net difference).
#69
Null and proud of it
Probably so. I guess we'll find out once a good deal of them have been sold and owners report back MPG numbers.
On a side note, I find 4 cylinder cars are usually overstated on fuel economy, and V6 cars are usually understated on fuel economy, go figure.
On a side note, I find 4 cylinder cars are usually overstated on fuel economy, and V6 cars are usually understated on fuel economy, go figure.
#70
Latent car nut
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Southern New Hampshire
Age: 68
Posts: 7,844
Received 2,005 Likes
on
1,407 Posts
Not sure where that came from, I've owned four-cylinder, turbo-four-cylinder, straight-six, V6, and V8 engines, and never experienced what you're suggesting.
#71
Null and proud of it
I find if a car has two engine options, and the I4 and V6 are rated like 5-8 MPG different overall, in reality, it's like 1-3 MPG different.
My 2001 Camry I4 would average 18-19 around town, whereas my gramdmothers 2003 Lexus, the engine my Camry would've had had it been a V6, averaged 16-18 around town. Or like how I'd get 33 on the highway in my TL, when an I4 Accord is rated at 34. I find MPG is really irrelevant unless it's a super economy car or gas guzzler 6.2 Silverado or Charger Hellcat, or something.
But I get where OP is coming from. I tried to save on gas by switching to an I4, but that failed miserably. I got nearly the same F/E I get in my 2.4 3,300 lb Kia as I did in a loaner J35 Odyssey 4,500 lb. van a couple of months ago, and the van actually was fast.
Last edited by Midnight Mystery; 03-25-2019 at 07:55 PM. Reason: Fliupk... :sad: bidr fgr.
#72
Senior Moderator
Thread Starter
I've more or less made up my mind on the AWD vs FWD question (was a challenge looking at many factors and took lots of discussion),....but I'll hold you in suspense slightly longer.
What's holding me up now is the damn color choice. I initially decided on the Polymetal grey with Red inside, but then immediately backtracked on that, and now am thinking Black outside and Red inside. I've always loved that combo on BMWs. Black on Black is also nice though, and I am used to that on my previous 3 cars. And part of me thinks I need to get something other than black paint because the hatch has black trim, and something that contrasts with that would be nice. Cannot really go wrong with black though. Unless I had more $$$ and could get a nice green/red/blue from Merc/BMW/Audi, cause they have some damn amazing colour choices.
One factor,... is the wait time. It could be close to a month wait on the black on red last time I talked to the dealer,....vs much quicker on the black on black. AWD wait times can be a couple months depending on the combo, but are likely to come faster apparently.
What's holding me up now is the damn color choice. I initially decided on the Polymetal grey with Red inside, but then immediately backtracked on that, and now am thinking Black outside and Red inside. I've always loved that combo on BMWs. Black on Black is also nice though, and I am used to that on my previous 3 cars. And part of me thinks I need to get something other than black paint because the hatch has black trim, and something that contrasts with that would be nice. Cannot really go wrong with black though. Unless I had more $$$ and could get a nice green/red/blue from Merc/BMW/Audi, cause they have some damn amazing colour choices.
One factor,... is the wait time. It could be close to a month wait on the black on red last time I talked to the dealer,....vs much quicker on the black on black. AWD wait times can be a couple months depending on the combo, but are likely to come faster apparently.
Last edited by West6MT; 03-25-2019 at 08:21 PM.
#73
Null and proud of it
Unless you're in a bind, how long is a months wait to get exactly what you want...
Sure, it would be nice to have the car in next to no time, but in four weeks, you'll say to yourself, I could have the red interior now. How long do you plan to keep the car, too? If it's your plan to keep it for many years, just wait and get what you really want.
Also, if you order one, will the dealer give you a loaner until your car arrives? I've heard of people foi g that before.
Sure, it would be nice to have the car in next to no time, but in four weeks, you'll say to yourself, I could have the red interior now. How long do you plan to keep the car, too? If it's your plan to keep it for many years, just wait and get what you really want.
Also, if you order one, will the dealer give you a loaner until your car arrives? I've heard of people foi g that before.
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-27-2019)
#74
Senior Moderator
One vote for red interior -- regardless of the exterior color.
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-27-2019)
#76
Ex-OEM King
I find if a car has two engine options, and the I4 and V6 are rated like 5-8 MPG different overall, in reality, it's like 1-3 MPG different.
My 2001 Camry I4 would average 18-19 around town, whereas my gramdmothers 2003 Lexus, the engine my Camry would've had had it been a V6, averaged 16-18 around town. Or like how I'd get 33 on the highway in my TL, when an I4 Accord is rated at 34. I find MPG is really irrelevant unless it's a super economy car or gas guzzler 6.2 Silverado or Charger Hellcat, or something.
But I get where OP is coming from. I tried to save on gas by switching to an I4, but that failed miserably. I got nearly the same F/E I get in my 2.4 3,300 lb Kia as I did in a loaner J35 Odyssey 4,500 lb. van a couple of months ago, and the van actually was fast.
My 2001 Camry I4 would average 18-19 around town, whereas my gramdmothers 2003 Lexus, the engine my Camry would've had had it been a V6, averaged 16-18 around town. Or like how I'd get 33 on the highway in my TL, when an I4 Accord is rated at 34. I find MPG is really irrelevant unless it's a super economy car or gas guzzler 6.2 Silverado or Charger Hellcat, or something.
But I get where OP is coming from. I tried to save on gas by switching to an I4, but that failed miserably. I got nearly the same F/E I get in my 2.4 3,300 lb Kia as I did in a loaner J35 Odyssey 4,500 lb. van a couple of months ago, and the van actually was fast.
Two votes.
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-27-2019)
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-27-2019)
#78
Ex-OEM King
Plus the red interior in the Mazda is a really nice brick red and not the in your face firetruck red of Lexus/Toyota.
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-27-2019)
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-27-2019)
#80
Moderator
SWP(white) / Red
The following users liked this post:
West6MT (03-27-2019)