Mazda3 in the US is Ok. Europe however gets the goods.

While attending the LA Autoshow in November of last year, we had the opportunity to see the all-new US market Mazda3 revealed. Even though the first-generation Mazda3 achieved over 2.0 million in total sales world wide, the next generation Mazda3 offers little that will attract our attention. The Mazda3 is possibly the best handling compact available to the average US consumer and the second Generation 3 offers even more. Other positive attributes include a larger interior/exterior, more powerful engines, more inviting interiors and even more comfortable seating but the updated engine options and fuel economy capabilities were a yawn. It is almost as if Mazda believed $4.00 plus gasoline did not occur. That being said, the new US based 3 is ?not the one to watch.?