The 2012 Mazda 3 range of configurations is currently priced from $3,850.
Our most recent review of the 2012 Mazda 3 resulted in a score of 8 out of 10 for that particular example.
You can read the full review here.
This is what Graham Smith liked most about this particular version of the Mazda 3: Well equipped base model, Cabin ergonomics, Optional SKYACTIV engine
The 2012 Mazda 3 carries a braked towing capacity of up to 900 Kg, but check to ensure this applies to the configuration you're considering.
The Mazda 3 is also known as Mazda Axela (Japan and China) in markets outside Australia.
The Mazda 3 2012 prices range from $5,170 for the basic trim level Hatchback Maxx Sport to $12,210 for the top of the range Hatchback Mps.
Some Mazda 3s built between 2007 and 2008 did, indeed, suffer from a loss of power-steering assistance and were fixed by Mazda as part of a nationwide program. Mazda pulled up short of recalling these vehicles, arguing that even if assistance was lost, the car would still have its steering.
In any case, your car was built after this troublesome batch of cars, but I’ve still heard of a few, later, Mazda 3s suffering the same problem. One suggestion I’ve heard is that the power-steering fluid becomes thick and can’t flow properly. From what I can gather, the only real fix is to replace the power-steering pump, hoses and fluid. That won’t be cheap, but suddenly having the steering lose assistance can’t be much fun. Or very safe.
Like you, Monty, I’ve also heard of power-steering problems caused by electrical faults (sometimes as simple as a lose battery terminal) but I think those apply to later cars with electric power-assistance. Electrically-assisted power-steering didn’t come to the Mazda 3 in Australia until 2014.
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Unless you are buying a manual I would rule the Cruze out, the automatic is trouble in that model and not worth the risk. If you do but a Cruze I would choose the 1.8-litre engine. Others to think of are the Hyundai i30, Mazda 3, or Mitsubishi Lancer.
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The Focus is a good car with a serious flaw; it has a dual-clutch automatic transmission that gives trouble. I would happily have a 2012 Focus with a manual gearbox, but I wouldn't buy one with a dual-clutch auto. I'd be looking at a Japanese or Korean brand and going for something like a Mazda 3, Honda Civic or Accord, Hyundai Elantra with a good record of reliability.
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