Take a good look at the car mags and see what they recommend. The Mazdaspeed3 is a great car and comes highly recommended. I’ve bought used if its the right car and the right price. New if its high performance or highly in demand. Don’t take what the dealer has on the lot unless its EXACTLY what you want. Remember that you will have it for a long time. Get what you want. I’m a car nut and hate to see people settle for an appliance when you can have an experience.