2006 Mazda3 GT (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

The 3 is one of few compacts that offer 4-wheel disc brakes across the line. Combined with anti-lock brakes on the GT (optional on the GS), braking is excellent and easy to control.

One thing I wasn't expecting was high fuel consumption. I average about 12.0 L/100 km, which is not great. However, a buddy at the office has a 3 Sport and regularly gets 9 L/100 km or better. My test vehicle is showing signs of being bruised and battered, probably by careless automotive journalists, which probably doesn't help.

Interior

You'll find a high-quality cockpit inside this car. All the materials feel rich, and work well together. Three cheers for the rotary knobs! Simple yet functional, the way it should be. The seats are stylish, comfy and supportive. I like the instruments nestled in motorcycle-like pods, but I'm not too crazy about the orange colour of the numbers. The sound system unfortunately has a couple of dead buttons because it's satellite-ready and I'm not, but works great otherwise.

2006 Mazda3 GT (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

The rear seat is somewhat tricky. Once sitting down, space and comfort is adequate. But actually getting in there is somewhat of a physical challenge. The roofline is low, and the rear doors get pretty narrow at their bottoms. You don't have much room to get your feet in. Stepping out is worse.

Open the trunk and you might be pretty disappointed. The space in there is not that great, it's not very deep, and the trunk opening is ridiculous. Blame the sloping rear window. It would unfortunately be a no-buy factor for me, since I often need to pack stuff when the kids tag along for an extended ride. I can already hear you saying: "Well, then get the 3 Sport, dummy." Yes, that's what I would do. However, the $20,395 3 Sport isn't available as a base model like the 3 sedan offers at $16,495, so it's not at everybody's financial reach.

Conclusion

The Mazda3 GT is a fun-packed little puppy. In GFX trim, it's well-equipped, looks great and is a thrill to drive. The 3 GT lists for $21,545, the GFX package costs $1,195, which totals $22,740. A comparably-equipped Honda Civic EX, which includes 4-wheel discs, 16-inch alloy wheels and a sunroof, costs $22,180. A slower Toyota Corolla Sport with a sunroof costs $22,760. You can also check out other sporty sedans such as the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, the Ford Focus ZX4

2006 Mazda3 GT (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

ST and the Nissan Sentra SE-R, but you'll be spending more money for as many features as the 3 GT GFX. It's no wonder why it's the bestselling car in Quebec within the top ten in Canada.

However, my two main complaints hurt the appreciation I have for this car. If you rarely haul objects bigger than grocery bags, or rear passengers, the 3 is a great choice. If you're planning on buying this car, make sure you're comfortable with the rear-seat access and trunk.

What I like:
Sporty character
Rich and functional interior
Reasonable price

What I don't like:
There's too many of them, if you like exclusivity
Tight access to back seat
Small trunk

CLICK HERE to view the 2006 Mazda 3 GT's specifications.