2009 Mazda MAZDASPEED3 Sport

The 2009 Mazda3 Sport Hatchback with a manual transmission and FWD is widely praised for its sharp handling, responsive steering, and fun-to-drive personality, often outperforming many compact rivals in driving dynamics. Reviewers highlight its sporty suspension tuning and precise manual gearbox, making it an engaging daily driver with a more athletic feel than competitors like the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf. The hatchback design adds practicality, offering solid cargo space and easy access, while the interior features supportive seating, intuitive controls, and Mazda’s well-known build quality. Owners consistently rate the 2009 Mazda3 Hatchback highly for reliability, with most issues limited to normal wear and tear rather than major mechanical problems. Overall, the 2009 Mazda3 Sport Hatchback delivers a rare combination of affordability, durability, and genuinely enjoyable performance—especially in the manual FWD configuration.