[ZipZapZop]

If you're looking for bang for the buck, then definitely go with a Mazda3 I Touring, it has all the features of the Civic EX except the moonroof for the price of a LX. If safety is a higher priority, you'll have to go with the more expensive S Touring (about the price of the Civic EX) to get Stability and Traction Control, something that the Civic does not offer unless you get the Si. But the Civic did get better crash test ratings though, but traction+stability helps you avoid a crash in the first place, so.......you decide.