Both are slow compared to stuff that Mazda has built before, like the MS3. But the 3MT is still the far more engaging choice esp. given how the AT in the 3 Turbo is calibrated.

The CX-5 has more body roll and a higher seating position. You sit low in the 30, with its high beltline and center console. The torsion beam really only makes itself known over rough/settled road, and yes, you do feel it. The other 95% of the time, you don’t.

Similar boat here, owned mine since new, so nearly 12 years now. Was deep into the old Mazdaspeedforums scene, with meetups with other owners, modding, etc. But now most of my driving is school dropoffs, grocery runs, and a short commute. Guess I got old. Barely even a chance to spool the turbo most days, and as you probably recall, the MS3 isn’t that great off boost. It’s not fast. And you’re still dealing with that heavy clutch and dual mass flywheel each shift. And stiff suspension, etc. They are hardcore cars.

There’s that, and the fact that these cars are now entering that netherworld of too old to be supported by the OEMs (got turned away by my dealer for a clutch job recently despite practically begging them) yet are not desirable, appreciating classics like, say, a Mitsubishi Evo. The ownership base for the Speeds has gone downmarket toward kids who are beating the hell out of half-dead examples of the cars, along with a tiny smattering a hardcore owners with built cars who’ll never sell (like over on Mazdaspeeds.org). I don’t have time to work on the car myself, so I take it to a quality independent, but as you know these cars are maintenance queens and just keeping them in good running order isn’t cheap when little things need attention and you’re paying shop rates of $165 an hour. The idea of a new 3 with a warranty that captures 90% of the MS3 experience during daily, responsible driving is awfully compelling.

Any regrets over selling your MS3? I’d be a little worried that it could turn into a long term life regret, as I’ve owned it since new and frankly it’s still an awesome, fast car. Just not something I want to daily anymore, for a number of reasons.

Well, the Turbo 3 is missing the engagement. Not dissing the car, I quite like it actually, I just didn’t find it especially captivating to drive. Certainly would do a great job as a luxe, quick-ish commuter though.

It’s slow compared to the emerging crop of megafast EVs, but it’s a million times more engaging as well. From another perspective, the 3MT is as fast as the 91 Trans Am I owned back in late 90s - probably a 15.0 second quarter with a 90ish mph trap speed. My current modded MS3 would be into the 12s with a good launch.

What? That car had a huge number of fanboys in its heyday, was in Forza, Need for Speed, had the forums (Mazdaspeedforums and NATOR), and an entire cult around it. Probably one of the most beloved Mazdas of the last 20 years.