Mazda3 2.5 vs SEAT/Skoda 1.5

[Ecosseven]

Morning all,

thinking about a replacement for my 2014 Seat Leon 1.8FR. Keen to stick to manual if possible which really restricts my options if I want something with reasonable performance. I've probably narrowed it down to the following options.

- Seat Leon / Skoda Scala / Skoda Octavia with the 150PS 1.5 engine.
- Mazda 3 or CX-30 with the 140ps 2.5N/A engine.

I really like the Mazda interior and the clean styling. Reliability from the Skyactive-G engine is reported to be very good. Some concerns over the quality of the paint finish though based on on-line reviews.

The Leon, Scala, and Octavia all share the same 150ps 1.5 engine and seem to get good reviews on line. The extra torque from the turbo will make it feel quicker than it probably is.

Any insights from owners or people who have driven any of these cars welcomed. Currently also own an MX-5 NC 2.0 and a Suzuki GSX-8S so the replacement for the Leon should focus on day-to-day usability, comfort, sensible running costs, practicality but will enough pep to not frustrate on back roads and allow me to overtake when necessary.

Thanks.

[ZX10R NIN]

I'd go for the Mazda imo it's the nicer quieter interior & the e torque fill means that you won't notice the slight toque deficit to the 1.5t VAG options.

[stevemcs]

I'd take the Mazda too.

[Ecosseven]

Thanks both. I was leaning towards the Mazda as I appreciate the larger capacity N/A engine. I'll get test drives arranged in the new year. I recognise that, as we move towards EV's and full hybrids, the manual gearbox will die out quick quickly so perhaps not surprising that manual warm / hot hatches are no longer around.

[tim0409]

I really rate the Scala; we bought one the week before the first lockdown (ex-demo with 4k miles) and it's now on 70k. It drives like a bigger more expensive car and is absolutely fine on long distances. There is also plenty of room in the back, which is why we bought it (for our dog). I can't comment on the 1.5, but we've got the higher power 1.0 with the 6 speed and I have never felt that it was underpowered.

[tr7v8]

Had a Mazda 3 mild hybrid a few months ago in Ireland. Auto. Really enjoyed it, quite quick with lots of toys. That'd be my choice, but then I wouldn't have anything VAG if you gave it to me for free.

[POIDH]

Having helped my sons buy cars over the last few years, and as a serial VAG owner, I'm buying Asian cars next time.
VAG are just lagging in so many areas.
I've had a Mazda 3 on hire and it was a lovely place to sit, even in base spec.