You'll be sorry with the Mazda.
First off...it's a Ford in Japanese clothing. Sure it looks sharp inside and out...but I question it's staying power for reliabiltiy and resale value.
Second...industry scoop is that they are having build quality issues (hence supporting my first point).
Third, good luck getting service from your Mazda dealer. It's all find and dandy that they're selling Mazda3's like crazy...but with the big jump in sales they haven't ensured that their dealer network can support and service all these new vehicles on the road. Nissan's in the same boat too. Their little rinky-dink dealers will not be able to keep up with your demand for warranty repairs and service. (ie: You wait for parts. You wait for service. You just plain wait).
Toyota has managed it's sales and dealer growth in a steady upward fashion.
But then again...you're asking which is better at a Toyota enthusiast site.
