Ok So I want to order an '09 panel version of this little retro beast but I have read horror stories (mightymouse i feel your pain) on the '08s mainly brake and transmission issues. Does anyone know if these same issues are trickling around in the '09s? As far as i know you can get brembos on the 09 so i would have to think that would correct any brake issues but the tranny freaks me out a little I currently have a mazdaspeed protege and this makes me think perhaps i should go with the mazdaspeed 3 whats a guy to do!

 

I have had my 09 since the 18th of July, and have not had any problems, she is performing beautifully, took a 325xi in a drag last night.

 

I didn't even know anyone here had a 09 yet!

 

May 30th, 4300 miles, other than brake dust, no problems.
Except for all the stupid chrome in the ****pit which I am systematically painting black.

 

so heres my next question the panel version of the 09 is it from the front drive/passenger window back or just the two rear pcs of glass behind the rear doors?? and was i correct in assuming that the 09s you can get brembos? my dealer is still waiting for the info packet for me to order one.

 

yes, the 09's have brembos, if you get the lsd package. the only glass on the panel is the front windows and the rear lift glass

 

Boy, why do people focus on the bad posts . . .

Been driving the heck out of my 08. Its not even two weeks old and has over 800 flawless miles, (if you take out my manual driving ability)

 

There will be three versions for the 09s available ........

Standard "wagon"
Full panel.................no side windows beyond front doors.
AA5/Quarter panel delete.........all 4 doors have windows.

 

There are some issues, however there are also MANY people here who have had no problems at all. There will be issues of some sort with any car, especially a first year model. Spend some time reading the posts of people RAVING about the car, it will make you feel better!

On a side note, I always thought that the AA5 and full panel were the same thing. I guess you learn something new every day.

 

ya sometimes you cant help it though even just one horror story is enough to make you a little weary. Besides ive had my mazdaspeed since new and now has 73k with not a single flaw....knock on wood.....so im used to serious reliability oh well guess ill just have to suck it up!