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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  Zoom Zoom....OH YEA! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By londonblue007 - July 20 - 3:33 pm

  I totally love this car. My brother actually wants to drive it over his Miata with a brand new mazdaspeed engine in it...go figure. Awesome handling, great for pulling high speed corners on New England on/off ramps. Drove to Virginia and back getting 35 mpg on regular gas! I am still in college, and this is the perfect car for someone who is on a budget but wants a new, stylish, sporty car that is reliable. Still runs just as good now, as it did 18 months ago, and it has 28,000 miles on it! I love the looks I get from people when I drive around campus or into Boston....so many people are shocked to see the Mazda symbol....Zoom Zoom!

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  Goodbye Focus, Hello Mazda - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jon - July 19 - 4:53 am

  I recently traded in my 2000 Ford Focus for a custom ordered Mazda 3. The difference is night & day. The 3 handles beautifully & the power is great. No problems merging on the freeway here in Los Angeles. The interior design & quality is what you would expect from a car costing twice as much. I especially love the blue backlight for the instrument cluster. Overall, this car turns heads & gives a satisfying feeling even when parked. Highly recommed it!

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  I think i got a Lemon.... - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jentz - July 19 - 3:50 am

  At first i luved my car.It handled great.took care of my car. serviced it ontime. after 1year (44k) of owning my 3 its been in the shop. I had to change the bushings, all the belts, a new alternator, and now the fuel pump. But i still luv my car. If its gonna give me more problems after fuel pump is replaced..never again im purchasing another Mazda. I have read in forums similar to what my car went through.

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  Good car for the money - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By zoomzoomfan - July 18 - 11:40 pm

  This is a great car to own, but if you are considering a new Mazda3 then you should be warned about the tires. The Toyo tires that come on the Mazda are worthless. I have 25K miles and Ive needed new tires for the last 2K miles. Ive heard similar stories from other Mazda 3 owners. My suggestion: make them put on different tires for you before you take it home!

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  My Mazda hasnt disappointed - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Cheryl - July 17 - 9:43 pm

  I was really apprehensive about trading in my trouble-free manual Camry, but I couldnt be happier with the Mazda 3 Hatchback. Its a blast to drive, the seats are comfy, and Im pleasantly surprised with the gas mileage. I have a smile on my face every time I get in the car!

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  Zoom - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By J.W. - July 17 - 9:46 am

  With 10 days (700 miles) of ownership of my first new car I am very pleased. 2 tanks of fuel averaging 27 MPG (70% highway, slightly aggressive driving) so far (manual transmission). Solid car with great git-up. I love how the car handles. Some types of road, amazingly quiet, other types lots of road noise. Compared most all other compacts, this was the best all around car we liked. Other cars had things that stood out, but nothing had as good of a package like this 3 did. Great handling with decent ride. I love this car so far.

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  07 Mazda 3 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By MAzda3 - July 16 - 12:56 am

  The car is great. The paint is terrible. It chips and scratches too easy (my purse chipped my paint). The interior sucks. The floor mats are cheap, the plastic door panels are poorly made, scratch way too easy and the plastic piece around the gear shift, well the silver paint is coming off of that from the heat. So yes I like this car, it runs great but the quality of the interior and the paint is very poor. Although I do like the car I would not buy it brand new again. Go for the used its not worth as much as it costs. Depreciation on this car is terrible.

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  Excellent Car in its Class - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bryan - July 14 - 11:03 pm

  I purchased a 2006 Mazda3 after looking at all of its competitors in its class. For the money I paid, I really feel like I got a steal. This is a fun car to drive and it looks and feels like I paid a lot more than I did. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a great car at a great price.

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  I love this car! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Angie - July 14 - 5:03 am

  I went from an 09 Subaru Legacy to this. I could not believe the difference in handling. Such a minuscule amount of body roll. Such great grip on the road. This car is amazing. And to top it off, it has such a great look! This car deserves the giant smile on the front. I would smile all the time too if I was this car. And I smile when I drive it. Im so happy I got it. Beautiful inside and out. If you prefer the slushy drive of your basic economy car, then this car is not for you. For true driving enthusiasts that also want something practical for everyday driving.

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  best hatchback for $20k period! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By logan42 - July 12 - 11:46 am

  Beats the stuffing out of the Focus, GTI, Matrix, PT Cruiser, Hyundia, Kia, you name it! I never thought Id be able to own a car this nice for under $30,000.