She really likes it so far. She got one with the "S" Touring package. Had a lot of trouble finding one with a Sunroof and a 5 speed. Seemed like they only sold automatics. We test drove a 2.0 with a 5 speed and it was pretty quick, but it didn't have alot of options. We looked at the Mazdaspeed3 with a 6 speed, but she wanted a sedan, not a hatchback. Wow...what a 100 EXTRA horses do.
The 2.3 gets pretty good mileage but not quite what the 2.0. Bought it thru Costco at $300 below invoice. Not the best deal, but didn't have to haggle. One other thing, my wife keeps cars 10+ years so she bought a 10year 100k extra warranty. It covers alot, and if you don't use it, you get your money back at the end of the warranty.
If you don't want a sunroof, the "i" series (2.0) has pretty good guts.
One other thing, no timing belt to change on the 2.3..it uses a chain.
Later,
Everet <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />