Overview & Reviews

Mazda has a tradition of building entertaining small cars, and the Mazda 3 fits right in with its sharp handling and engaging nature. But it's also a practical, affordable runabout that's available as either a sedan or a handy four-door hatchback. A Mazda 3 of any vintage is worth consideration, but the 3's interior quality has improved dramatically over time. Likewise, fuel economy has emerged as a real strength in recent years.

Introduced in 2004, the Mazda 3 has always been one of those cars that feels a little bit special when you get behind the wheel. Some shoppers might find the ride too firm, but if you like to drive, you'll probably take a shine to this compact Mazda. Passenger room is the same in the sedan and hatchback, but the latter offers more cargo room. If fuel economy is a priority, note that 2012 and later models benefit from updated engine technology that helps the car return significantly better mileage.

User Reviews:

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  Great Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Grant - August 18 - 10:03 pm

  I purchased my Mazda 3 Grand Touring in June and have already put 12k miles on it. It has been extremely reliable and a pleasure to drive. It is surprisingly quick for a little 4cylinder. I have the 5 speed manual and couldnt imagine it with an auto, even with the manual mode on the auto. Brakes are amazing as has been said. Interior quality also top notch.The Rockford Fosgate stereo that came in my girlfriends Sentra is considerably better then the Bose stereo in my car. Gas mileage is better then most have said on here and I drive it pretty hard. I get about 26-28 in the city and about 29-31 highway. Drove the competition and nothing really came close in comparison in this price range.

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  Simply Amazing - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By MazdaGuy - August 18 - 10:00 am

  My family currently owns a Mazda 3s, 6i, and Protégé5, all are amazing. It has great handling, a better feel than the 6 and higher limits than the Pro5, although the Pro5 has a better feel and the 6 has higher limits, it is a good balance. The engine is great, but be advised that if you plan to change your own oil, it uses a cartridge filter available only at the dealership and online, retailing around $11 for the filter. The transmission is great with short throws and precise shifting. This car doesn’t really fit in with any vehicle class, more powerful and sporty than any compact in its price range. I would put it closer to a BMW 325i than a Civic.

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  Do you love to drive? - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Chicago "3" owner - August 18 - 10:00 am

  If youre looking for a 5-door car stop, you just found it. The 2.3L is quick- get the leather tim, if you can . If your a stick driver you may find the "3" feels more like a VW then a Honda or other like imports. Over all- for the money this car will be hard to beat!

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  great - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By saraannwarren - August 18 - 10:00 am

  it is fun to drive all over the city. great little car for the buck

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  Mazda 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brian1381 - August 18 - 10:00 am

  It is fun to drive and practical as well. A great car for a student.

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  10s - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Travis0000007754 - August 18 - 10:00 am

  Great car! Fun to drive. Excellent features for the price

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  This car is truly a zoom....zoom - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Billzer1 - August 16 - 6:20 pm

  I have owned this car for only a week and I have had more looks and compliments than any other car I have ever driven. It handles great, drives very smooth and has a lot of features only found in more expensive cars. the 4cyl engine has a lot of pick-up. The dash is very sleek and the radio w/CD player is truly and upscale design. This car has it all.

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  40 mpg - why no press for that? - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By rvoza - August 15 - 11:00 pm

  Its quick when you need it, it looks like a sharp euro car, especially in White. Ive driven 85k in the 2 years Ive had it, not one problem except new tires, no surprise. When I use Mobil 1 5-20 and drive 55, I get 40 mpg! Can you show me another non-hybrid car at this price that performs like that? at under $14k, the 07 is perfect for anyone on a lower budget. The 2.3 engine is faster and offers more color choices, but youll lose 5 mpg. The 2.0 is fast enough unless you have ego issues.

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  Nice car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By john bell - August 15 - 9:16 am

  Bought a 2004 Mazda 3 hatch new in December of 04 . I was impressed by the way it looks and the way it grabs the road. Good engine, good brakes, great stereo system and enough room for 4 adults. A few things that made it un-perfect : the transmission had to be replaced (under warranty ) after only 2000 miles and the fuel economy was nowhere near the stated. I was getting only about 17 city/ 22 highway. The dealer said there is nothing wrong with the car, its the way i drive. A great car for the money, a real "pocket rocket" as they say.

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  Zoooooom - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ERNurse - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased my new 3s 4 days ago and I think Im in love. Got the sedan in black with sport package,moonroof package, safety package, and a rear wing spoiler. The sound system is great, great looks, great get-up-and- go, and lovin the HUGE glove box. I drove a Jeep Wrangler prior, so this is a totally different drive, but great fun nonetheless!