'08 Mazda3 or '08 Subaru Impreza

[MaxPower]

Choose between the two cars, as optioned-out below:


2008 Mazda 3 s Touring (auto transmission, no extra options): $20,088


2008 Subaru 2.5i (auto transmission, premium package): $20,140


EDIT (clarifications):
- both are sedans
- all-purpose means that, for arguments sake, this car is used for normal general purposes (road trips, errands, family car) and is not dedicated to being a winter beater or weekend fun car, with the exception that there also exists a 4WD Tacoma in the garage to accommodate large cargo, towing, and other truck-like needs.

[J86]

ooooh, tuff!

I haven't been in the new Subie, so I don't feel like I can give ya a good assessment...has anyone done a comparo of the two yet?

[TheIntrepid]

If a sedan? Mazda3.

If a hatchback? Impreza.

[the Teuton]

All-purpose, as in my sport utility, sports car, people-hauler, cargo-carrying machine?

If the new, generic-looking Imp is anything like mine but better, I would take it in a heartbeat.

[Eye of the Tiger]

If a sedan? Mazda3.

If a hatchback? Impreza.

I'll take both. I mean, I voted for the Mazda, but I'd rather have the 'prez because it AWD.

[SVT666]

All things being equal, because I've only driven the 3, I would take the 3 based on styling and the Subie based on AWD.  Too bad the Subie looks like it does.

[the Teuton]

All things being equal, because I've only driven the 3, I would take the 3 based on styling and the Subie based on AWD.  Too bad the Subie looks like it does.

+1

[MX793]

I presume the Taco is 4WD?  If so, I'd go with the Mazda.  More fuel efficient, better looking, more nimble.  They do OK in the snow, but if things get real bad you've got a 4WD in the garage as an alternative.

[AKL]

Mazda3 based on its better fun-to-drive factor (and that it is more fuel efficient according to MX793)
I haven't driven the new Prez yet though. But I've read some reviews that its gone softer. + I don't think you need the AWD help for snow if you already have the Tacoma.

[S204STi]

If a sedan? Mazda3.

If a hatchback? Impreza.

Likewise.

Frankly, the Impreza is best as a platform for the WRX and STI.  Unless you're going to go for the 2.5i hatch or the Outback Sport, I don't consider the 2.5i to be very tempting when compared to the Mazda 3i, which is my personal favorite in the segment.

[nickdrinkwater]

The new Impreza has bad reviews.  Get the Mazda.