We are going to be in the market for a new car mid year. we have decided to get a smaller car for me to drive around in, and keep my current car for caravaning trips and for DH to drive to work.

There is only about $4k difference between the 2 brand new, so that isn't really a concern when taking into consideration the vital things according to DH (cruise control and air con). We will also be going manual.

We have really only ever had Toyotas, and neither of us have much experience with Mazda.

Do you have either, and what are your thoughts?