I pulled the trigger! - 6-spd Manual 2020 Corolla SE Sedan

[KALISPEL II]

A new update for this old thread.

I recently traded in my (Japan-built) 2020 TNGA Corolla SE Sedan 6-MT because I wasn't happy with some things (both personal preference issues & vehicle related issues), & Toyota dragging their feet addressing the issues that related to warranty and/or saying certain issues were "normal" (like 3 new batteries replaced under warranty in first 2 years - WTH). I feel that modern-day Toyota, like Honda, is now coasting on a reputation that has become outdated. So, without a TNGA Yaris hatch in the U.S. market to entice me, I'm not interested in owning a Toyota or dealing with Toyota any longer.

So, I purchased a 2022 Mazda CX-30 Carbon Edition about a month ago at MSRP (yay, no crazy dealership market markups) & finally joined the dreaded SUV/Crossover legions here in the USA. Luckily I was able to get a trade value equal to what the Corolla was priced at brand new in late 2019 - talk about a crazy, upside down used car market! I have to say that I'm impressed by my new Mazda CX-30 AWD Carbon thus far. Not a single defect or issue to be found & it is more comfortable/premium than my Corolla SE Sedan was in pretty much every respect. The only drawback is that I'm now driving a 6-AT instead of a manual for the first time in my life (which might not be a bad thing really these days). Manuals are definitely more FUN & engaging, though an automatic is very convenient in heavy, stop & go traffic. Also, still not a fan of the thickly-uniform black cladding on the CX-30, but the black wheels & blacked out chrome trim (& added matte black lower hatch accent) pull it all together better IMO. I was originally shopping for a CX-5 Carbon Edition or Premium trim, but the smaller/compact CX-30 was more my size preference & does look a lot better up-close & in-person than in pics/videos. Most cars/vehicles seem to be like that I have found.

Great to have a hatchback again! So, until a TNGA Yaris hatch in a premium trim level hits this market, I'm good.