Would love to hear from owners - thoughts and ownership impressions of the Mazda3?

Hey everyone, I'm on the hunt for a new car. Even though I'll be leasing / financing in a year from now, I'm trying to give myself enough time to keep all my options open. I do know that I want a Mazda. I'm not sure which one, but I know it'll be a Mazda for sure. I also know that I likely will want the Turbo version of whichever model I go for.

I want something that's quick, fun to drive, pretty reliable, has a nice interior, is a bit more grown up than my current Jeep, and can also do the boring daily commute. So far through my research, Mazda checks all these boxes. Mazdas are also pretty handsome looking vehicles. They're styling is so nice.

I really like the CX-30 and CX-50. In my price range of ~$38k-$39K, the CX-50 Turbo ends up stretching it a bit. I have a friend with a CX-30, and was able to confirm that my skis do fit in the CX-30. In terms of the backseat passenger space, I usually have no more than one other passenger. If a friend/family member is tall, then I can just have them sit up in the front passenger seat. I could get a CX-30 Turbo Premium Plus in my price range.

However, all of this got me thinking about the Mazda3 Hatchback. I would probably choose the Hatch as I don't like how the Sedan looks, and the Hatch is just beautiful. The Hatch Turbo Premium Plus is pretty much the same price as the CX-30 Turbo Premium Plus, and I bet it must be a bit more fun to drive given the lower ground clearance. I'm not too worried about interior/cargo space. Like I said, if I have a taller passenger they don't have to sit in the back seats. I can also buy crossbars and a ski rack or Thule for when I do go skiing (if need be). I want to get the car based on what I want.

I'm going to my local dealer to test drive some models in about a week, but I would love to hear some input from current Hatch/Sedan owners. What made you go with the Mazda3 over other vehicles? Would you consider it somewhat fun to drive? Sorry for the long post, but if you read it I appreciate it!