Check out CR April issue. Just on the news stand now. This is their annual auto issue. Mazda 3 is recommended vehicle although I believe their top pick in thst class is the Subaru Impreza.
CR just absolutely loves Subaru, the Impreza and the Forester are both top rated by CR in their categories. Subaru does what CR is all about, they're practically cars designed to meet CR's specs -- Subaru delivers a quality car with no extra bells and whistles, meaning cost is low and basic reliability, safety, MPG, etc., is great. But really, not a penny extra spent on anything that might resemble luxury -- you get a great engine, a great drivetrain, great AWD, good reliability, safe vehicle, stable on the road--and the most austere interior possible. Great car but everyone who sees you driving it knows you didn't spend a penny you didn't have to on anything fancy.
I would drive one but my wife is status oriented one so we have to drive something that passes for a luxury car -- she says it's too embarassing to show up at a cocktail party in a Subaru. I think that's retarded, but I don't argue. Too bad, they're great cars, probably the best value for money if you don't care about status.