Hi guys,
Thanks for the replies. I have booked into a Mazda specialist for the engine issues next week just to get it diagnosed. If they can diagnose, I may be able to change the part(s) myself. Specifically on the 6th gear issue, it vibrates even if I'm going up a slight hill at 70mph just to keep speed or if the cruise control is on. As I said before, I can stop it by re-shifting back into 6th but I'll take the advice and also get that checked out. It is out of warranty and wasn't bought with extended warranty so Mazda won't be able to help. I just gave the car a clean and noticed the touched up stone chips all over the bonnet. I have read on the forum about the horrendously thin paint, so I'll have to deal with that and possibly even get a ceramic paint protection covering if it's worth it.
I hope to be keeping this vehicle for 8+ years; I moved out of home recently with the missus and bought the car for its assumingly excellent reputation in mechanical reliability, fuel economy and the possibility of using it as a family car if a baby arises (well, comparing it to my previous car, an '05 Honda Accord 2.4 VTEC Ex).
I would also consider giving it a remap at some point this year. I don't want the DPF deleted as I have heard a lot of horror stories about failing the MOT etc. What sort of economy/power gains will I be looking at? I know all remaps are different, but I have read that flashremapping.co.uk are reputable. I have never had a car remapped so I wouldn't have a clue on how to go about it.
Again, thanks for the replies.