I'm considering buying a MazdaSpeed3 after test driving one a few weeks back. I'm rather impressed so far, and I'm almost sold on buying one.

I'm stuck between the Sport and GT Trims. I've found Sport models for less than 20k, which is a great deal for me. However, the GT trim has a few extras, but most are upwards to 23-25k OTD.

So if it were you, and you could buy a Sport model for less than 20k OTD, would you pass up the GT model? The Xenon lamps and LED tails are easy add-ons for a lot less than an extra 3k-5k.

Thanx...Spartan3

 

I bought the gt and loved it, I would say it is totally worth it. in addition to the HID and LEDs the the GT also has the BOSE audio which is great, leather, rain sensing windshield wipers etc. To me the GT is totally worth it, you should be able to find a better deal than 23k. The Mazda dealer here has GTs marked at 22,900. and that is for a new one.

 

If I can find one for around 22k OTD, I will definitely consider buying the GT. But at 19k, and you get the same power, the Sport models right now are clearly a steal.

I'm gonna check out a few more dealers over the next few weeks and see if I can find a better price.

 

It's just a matter if you want the luxuries or not, to some the sound syatem and stuff is worth it. BTW whichever trim you get the Mazdaspeed exhaust is well worth the money

 

I'd go with the GT. You might be able to get a good deal on an 09 since the 2010 will come out soon. Mabe consider a 2008.5???

 

On the topic of adding HIDs, you can of course add an aftermarket HID kit to the halogen projectors on the sport model, however you won't get nearly the performance as you do from the HID projectors. They have a cleaner cutoff, and a wider beam spread and lack the "hot spots" the halogen projectors give with HIDs in them. Also they have the manual leveling switch so you can adjust the beam for weight in the car. If you're talking about retrofitting the OEM HIDs into the car then bear in mind that one HID headlight (just the housing) is $815...... plus you still need ballasts, bulbs, leveling motor (if you want to do that too), and the wiring.

 

where in the country do you live?

 

I'm in hampton roads virginia.

 

Yeah, I love the leather, which is enough reason to get the GT. You can always upgrade the stereo, LEDs, and headlights. I saw an awesome item, headlights with angel eyes and colored bulbs alrady in them, and they blacked out the amber reflector. So it is up to you if its worth it for the leather. Just don't get the Navi, i have it, it sucks.

 

You might want to just wait and get the 2010 if you want a new one. Also if dealerships still have the older models by then they'll really want to unload them meaning you might get a good deal.

Ive had a few dealerships tell me the 09's are out of production and that the 10's are coming out with in the next month or two.

As for the difference between the two trims. I havent hear anyone say it wasn't worth getting the GT, but I also havent heard any people with the sport say they wish they would've bought the GT. check them both out at a dealership and ask yourself if the extra add ons are really worth the extra couple grand when you could do other things with the money. Also the leather wont be as nice to have in the summer and winter.