So, I'm a frugal person, sometimes to a fault. I try to save money in all areas of my life. I typically buy Toyota Corollas because they last so long and get great mileage. I recently bought a Mazda 3 for the same reasons. My boy hit a deer with it and it is totaled now. I'm now considering replacing it with a Mazda 6 for a little more room. The MPG is only 2mpg less. I'm also thinking about a CX-5. The MPG is 5mpg less than a Mazda3. (2017 models) 5mpg translates into a mere $350 savings over the course of a year if you drive 15,000 miles per year. That seems so insignificant to me. Thus, I'm considering buying a CX-5 to give me more versatility (Roomier interior, Cargo space, Clearance for off road, etc). What are your thoughts? How far should I take this idea that....Fuel economy is overrated? Maybe $800 per year isn't significant if I can drive what I want??? Also, what thoughts do you have in general on my options....Mazda3, Mazda6 or CX-5?

 

Welcome to the forum

 

The sticker with the MPG is pretty close on all platforms and model because of the EPA standards that must be met to sell in the USA .

MPG however is ultimately how one drives and that it should be considered after the engine has broken in. On a Skyactiv Mazda engine from about 2014 to p[resent that is 15k or more miles.
On other platforms this is also approximately true for the engine and transmission break in periods. So, if you are reading internet information from owners consider what they have posted for their miles on the odometer.