anybody have an opinion on whether the mazda gearbox is better/worse/same as the Ford ones.
You won't find this forum short on opinions...
I'll open the batting on this one. I have two 4/4s - a 2010 and a 2012, both 1.6 Sigma engined, the 2010 on a Ford 'box and the 2012 one of the earliest with the Mazda 'box.
There is no comparison. The Mazda gearbox encourages you to fly up and down the gears and really wring the most out of this charismatic but low-torque little engine.
The Ford gearbox.... well, doesn't...
My Father, who uses the car, is waiting for the Ford gearbox to loosen up after a few thousand more miles. If it doesn't, I shall get him another with the newer gearbox.