The issue of buying a new vehicle versus a used one can be more complicated than you would think. There are pros and cons to both, so the choice really comes down to what you want. If you’re interested in a used car, then the 2015 Mazda3 is a great option.

According to Consumer Reports, there’s a lot to love about the Mazda3 if you’re on a budget. You’ll get a vehicle that has plenty of modern options for a price that won’t make you wince.

The 2015 Mazda3 has some amazing fuel economy

One of the biggest draws of buying a sedan is the great fuel economy. In spite of the headway electric cars are making, some people still prefer to go with the tried and true gas powered vehicles. 

That’s why the 2015 Mazda3 continues to make such a strong impression on both consumers and critics. It gets about 30 mpg, according to Consumer Reports. Whether you travel a lot for a living or just drive back and forth to work, this will help alleviate some of the pain your wallet feels every time you go to the pumps.

There is also several engine and transmission choices, making the 2015 Mazda3 even more attractive. The base models come equipped with a 155 hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that has plenty enough power to keep you entertained while driving. 

If you want more power, then you can opt for a higher trim level that is equipped with a 184 hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. No matter what engine you get, you have the option of choosing a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.

The combination of powerful engines and transmissions gives drivers a vehicle that is extremely fun to drive. It can take curves like a dream, and has sharp handling.

Consumer Reports has only a few complaints. These complaints included a loud cabin and lack of room in the rear seats.

There’s still plenty of tech

The base model of the 2015 Mazda3 doesn’t come with an infotainment system, so if that’s a deal breaker for you, there are a couple of choices available to you. The i Sport trim and higher trim levels offers an infotainment screen, so you can simply spend a little more to get what you want.

The other option is to retrofit it, according to Car and Driver. Mazda is considering doing this, so you can swing by your dealer and get it installed for about $199. 

Installing your own infotainment system or having it retrofitted at a Mazda dealer might be your best bet, because the 2015 Mazda3 has some issues with the infotainment system.

Car Complaints reports that it tends to short circuit, with screens that randomly change and many features that fail to work. This can cost about $400 to fix, which costs more than simply getting a new infotainment system retrofitted.

The price is incredibly cheap for all you get

The 2015 Mazda3 has a price range from $9,900-$14,200, according to Consumer Reports. That might be out of many families’ budget, but is an attractive option for many more who can’t afford to buy new.

Given the very affordable price for the 2015 Mazda3, and its record for being reliable, this makes it a great choice for your teen’s first car. You won’t have to hear how they’re too embarrassed to drive it because it has a very modern look, and there’s a lower chance of having them call to tell you they’re stuck on the side of the road because it broke down.