Guys, the EPA scores are competitive for this segment. Especially compared to Mazda's previous offering. There haven't been that many(if any) 40 MPG rated cars from Mazda and this isn't one either.
Compare Side-by-Side
Edit: Plus if you're looking for MPG and sporty, best bet is the Mazda2. Which seems to be underrated by the EPA test cycle compared to real world.
http://www.fuelly.com/car/mazda/2