Did anyone check out the Mazda 3 GT when they were looking at the Fiesta ST?

I'm in the process of replacing my trusty 2004 Cavalier and I've pretty much got it down to these two cars. And I'm having one hell of a time trying to decide.

What made you go for the Fiesta?

I had to travel 5 hours to a dealership to even test drive the Fiesta. But even despite how rough I am with a manual (Never owned a manual car, though I've driven a few owned by family members), I had a huge-ass smile on my face. The sound, the acceleration and handling were fantastic. I definitely love how it drives.

However, I did find the Mazda's interior a lot nicer, even in the GS. And it's quite a bit cheaper than the Fiesta. Here in Canada, both are expensive thanks to the dollar being in the toilet. For the Fiesta, I was getting quotes of about $29k and the Mazda 3 GT was getting quotes of $27k.

Obviously, this is a personal decision, but I'm curious to see what you guys have to think.