Originally Posted By: zoomzoomlx
If the Mazda 3 was a little cheaper and was available as a stripped down model, i'd consider it.
I'm not sure about the 2010s, but when the GF and I were shopping for Mazda3s our local dealer had a stripper model with manual locks and windows. Still had a radio and AC. Still had some niceties like a center console armrest w/ storage and an external ambient temperature display. I don't recall the sticker price, but I think it was somewhere around $14-$15k. So still more expensive than stripper Yaris/Accents but it is/was available without PW/PL. If that would change your mind you should look into it, great car.
Back on topic: Between the two, having never driven either I think I'd go for the Accent. I don't like center mounted gauges, and friends with Rios and Accents seem to have good luck with them. That said, if it were me I'd go for a Fit despite the PW/PL, but sounds like you've got your reasons on that (and I can't really blame you).