Everyday Driver reviews : Impreza VS Focus VS Mazda 3

[SeattleJeremy]

I've been watching Everyday Driver for a while now, and all three of these cars are on my short list for Vibe Replacements (not imminent, but I keep a list). Thought maybe other Genvibe'ers might want to see these. Enjoy.

Part 1, the Subaru Impreza:
http://youtu.be/HUcnB1m6ikM" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Part 2, The Ford Focus:
http://youtu.be/mw-Baq1m6gw" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Part 3, the Mazda 3:
http://youtu.be/1DJ-dZOmB3g" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Also on my list is the Fiesta and Fit.

[Chiadog]

Interesting reviews! Thanks for the links.

[Caretaker]

I drove the Focus in Tucson and Phoenix. The car's transmission is a disaster. I have never experienced a more poorly designed tranny. I turned my rental in after one day and got another Focus. It was only slightly better in shifting and exhibited many of the same quirks. Either the fleet needs a PCM reflash or Ford has a major problem on their hands. The person I was staying with also drove one a year ago and said his rental had the exact same issues (severe hesitation and mild bucking from stop through first gear). Focus? yes, focus on something else.

[KITT222]

I drove the Focus in Tucson and Phoenix. The car's transmission is a disaster. I have never experienced a more poorly designed tranny. I turned my rental in after one day and got another Focus. It was only slightly better in shifting and exhibited many of the same quirks. Either the fleet needs a PCM reflash or Ford has a major problem on their hands. The person I was staying with also drove one a year ago and said his rental had the exact same issues (severe hesitation and mild bucking from stop through first gear). Focus? yes, focus on something else.

It's telling you to get the manual


Rather disappointing about the Impreza. It's a proper hatchback that isn't too terrible looking. Even with the manual, the chassis just isn't good enough I suppose. But of the three I'd take the Mazda3.

[lowincash]

I drove the Focus in Tucson and Phoenix. The car's transmission is a disaster. I have never experienced a more poorly designed tranny. I turned my rental in after one day and got another Focus. It was only slightly better in shifting and exhibited many of the same quirks. Either the fleet needs a PCM reflash or Ford has a major problem on their hands. The person I was staying with also drove one a year ago and said his rental had the exact same issues (severe hesitation and mild bucking from stop through first gear). Focus? yes, focus on something else.

I also rented a focus a couple months back and the transmission was horrible. Even the guy at Hertz warned me about the jerky transmission but I had no idea it was that bad. Often times accelerating or coming to a stop the car jerks and almost feels like it's about to stall. Apparently a lot of focus owners have this issue