I test drove the new Mazda3 (loaded sedan)

[VarmintCong]

How does the Civic Sport compare to the Sport Touring or the SI in general terms of value and satisfaction?

I'm pretty happy with the Si upgrade - the shifter is nicer, the car feels more solid I think due to the stiffer suspension, but not any less comfortable. It's a little quicker at high RPMs. The seats are great for sporty driving, a bit less comfortable on long trips cause you can't really move around in them. The stereo is a lot better than the 4 speaker in my Sport, but not sure it's much better than the 8 speaker in newer Sports.

Most of all I like the LSD - in the rain it has so much more grip. I'm sure it'll be just as beneficial in the snow.

I think if you're an enthusiast the Si is a steal at only $2k over the Sport. But the Sport is great if you need a hatch and don't care about the moonroof.

Sponsored