I thought I'd update all of ya. I hit Mazda yesterday (<BAM!>), and test drove the 3. Unfortunately, they didn't have ANY sticks in stock! So I had to drive the auto (with manu-matic whatever). I imagine the stick will be similar to my Focus, however they did mention that tho the body / chassis are from the Euro Focus, the engine / transmission are Japanese. Oh well.

Anyway, the 3 rode nice. It would definitely be an upgrade to my Focus. Unfortunately, there is no availability on them (they're selling well, with low stock as it's new). So, negotiation room was tight. That's a big downer since I know already from some preliminary negotiations that Acura was willing to move quite a bit from the $23,865 retail.

The other problem, it felt just like my Focus. It feels like I'd be stepping into the same car with some minor upgrades here, and some minor upgrades there. Acura would at least be a new car. :ugh:

My friend I was with also test drove the 6, which had lots of negotiating room, but too much sticker, and too much car. Not interested at all. He was at the point where his 6i with options was cheaper than my loaded 3s. Not interested anyway.

I'm starting to reconsider everything. I did love the RSX but the rear seat is a major downer. I've got some decisions to make...

--Diamond