 This was actually my 2nd Mazda 3 as I had a 2010 iTouring sedan which was totaled in a rear end accident.  I really enjoyed the car as it drove well.  I purchased a 2012 iTouring hatchback right away.  Great handling and felt more upscale than other compacts in its class.  Having come from a Audi A4 before the Mazda 3 felt nice and planted.  Steering was responsive with great feedback.  Not one issue after 4 years of owning the car.  Then, after some routine maintenance I found out the rear shocks were bad and needed to replaced.  I noticed the car had been riding roughly before had.  This caused the tires to "cup" and required replacement.  The car only had about 40,000 miles by then.   At this point the car is out of warranty.  About a year later the AC stopped blowing cold.  I had the AC recharged and was told there's a small leak.  This required nearly $600 in repairs.   After another stop for routine maintenance I find out the front struts are now leaking and needed replacement.  At this point I'd had enough and traded in the car.