Thanks Evan. I too like
Thanks Evan. I too like light colored interiors now. They cheer me up. I did ask the Mazda rep I work with about a 2.5 with the stick and she would not comment on future products (none ever do). However, she is one of the best in the business and she looked into the numbers for me. The current 3 with the 2.0 only garners 5% of Mazda 3 buyers. That is typical actually. The Corolla is like that as well. Financially, Mazda would be crazy to offer a stick in the larger engine size, but they may do it because it is the right thing to do for fans of the brand. Honestly, having tried this car, I say drive the 2.0 stick and see what you think. It may be enough for you and you will save some money. - As the former owner of a Supra, Integra, Civic SI, Miata and other cars with sticks, I am now a convert to paddle shifters. Believe me, I never thought I would be, but I love them in my Lexus IS 350 and even on my 1 week test the stick was a hassle in a lot of heavy traffic I encountered. Just my own opinion.