One of my friends bought a 3 from colonial. it was then 5.3M. I believe it is 5.7 now. The Axela Hybrid is 5.9M. The notable difference is the 2L engine, electronic climate control, seat heaters, head up display)Even with all the options and gadgets on the Hybrid my friend decided to on the Mazda 3 because,
1. Fuel was not an issue for him.
2.There was no proper documented warranty from the seller who had the Axela.
3.At Colonial they told that there was an Axela with a cracked windscreen waiting for a replacement from colonial. Even they could not find one from Japan as the Mazda 3 and Axela windscreens are two different sizes. (according to them)
An another friend said his friends Axela is doing about 17-20 KMPL in Colombo.
Like Supra said best is to get used 6 or a brand new 3. The 3 and the 6 looks the best on the current market for that price range.