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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  1 Week Old - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Gogo - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought a black loaded 2.3L Mazda 3 sedan with auto, leather, mp3 player, 17" wheels, and aero package. Interior quality and design is comparable to much more luxurious (ie $$$) cars. The exterior with the aero package and the 17" wheels manages to be classy and racy from all angles. The 2.3L feels strong and relaxed if not racy. Leather seats are comfortable but dont have a seat warmer option. The dash looks great at night even though the instrument cluster is a little busy. Handling is top notch with the ride never being harsh. Highly recommended. The Mazda 3 is by a landslide the best in class.

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  What more could you ask for. - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By deeceeuci - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased the 5-speed 4s with the sports package about 48 hours ago. Purchase price $16,300 -- What more can you ask for from an entry level car as far as performance, style, and functionality are concerned. This car looks like a bigger souped up jetta, performs like the matrix Xrs, feels like an eclipse spyder on the turns, but costs a few thousands less! All my assessment for the vehicle is based on the buying price and the fact that this car is an entry level model.

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  A gamble over the Civic and Corolla - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By sockejewa - July 7 - 9:13 pm

  I gambled by purchasing the 3 over the Corolla and the Civic and it has paid off so far. Never before have I owned a vehicle that is this fun to drive and with the features that came on my vehicle I really feel special. Xenon lamps, navigation, it has it all. Its reliable, has "giddi-up" and is a real looker too. I am very happy with my purchase.

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  Awesome Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jeremy - July 7 - 7:10 pm

  I bought this car in 2004 and have not been disappointed at all. I average 30 mpg city/highway and when I am doing only highway driving I easily get 33 mpg at 75 mph. The steering on the car is great and it will take corners faster than most cars. I took a 45 mph curve at 90 mph and didnt spin out. The braking distance and power of the car is amazing. You barely have to hit the brake pedal for the brakes to engage and going on to different cars feels like you have to stand on the brakes in those other cars. Overall this is an excellent car and I would recommend it to anyone.

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  Fun to Drive - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By bp902 - July 6 - 10:00 am

  So far this has been a great little car. It has more than respectable "get up and go" for a vehicle in this price range. It handles better than expected. Having owned other vehicles in this class I must applaud Mazda for there investment into the product. This is not your entry level car by any stretch. Overall I give this an "A".

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  Zoom Zoom - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By zstardust - July 4 - 6:46 am

  Im enjoying driving my 2014 Mazda 3. Its taken awhile to adjust to the sight lines, which are not nearly as good (due to low ground clearance) as my prior SUV. The tradeoff is much better gas mileage, though as others have noted, I havent achieved nearly the mileage I expected (roughly 30 mpg combined). Ride is much quieter and softer than I expected. Handles like a nimble sports car. Stick with the basics, and add on your own aftermarket bells and whistles for a great car under $20K.

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  Fun & Sporty = 3 (zoom-zoom) - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By JJ - July 3 - 1:33 pm

  After thinking long and hard about many different vehicles, I decided to go with the 3. I could not be happier with my decision. This car is sporty for a 4-banger, and with the manual tranny, its fun-fun-fun. I honestly wish I would have gone with the SPEED version though (I didnt because I really need the sunroof).

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  What a blast - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By kmh030 - July 1 - 7:26 pm

  This thing is so much fun to drive. Get the 2.3 motor (not the 2.0). It is so much fun to drive everyday. I couldnt ask for more car at $18,600. Its well built, handles like a dream, quick off the line and you can fit a piano in the back. Big strong brakes and a great chassis offers a stiff yet surprisingly smooth ride. The automatic transmission could be a bit more smooth but its not bad. It boots around the city and whips easily into any parking spot. On the down side the seats are not comfortable. The seat hurts after 1.5 hours and it gets worse. Im going to buy an aftermarket seat. The cockpit ergonomics could be better too. But I dont care and you shouldnt either.

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  Love it already - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By i4dboilerz - July 1 - 1:16 pm

  Traded in a 2000 nissan Maxima and got a 10 mazda 3. $ dr sedan GT with the moonroof and technology package. Fun to drive and has all the features that you would not expect in an "economy car." Room in back for the kids and fun for dad to drive. Yes dear I will run back out to the grocery...what do you need?

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  Okay Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jane doe - June 30 - 10:00 am

  Overall, the car looks nice, but has some hidden quirks. It is sort of uncomfortable to drive, as there is a lag when you first get going. Also Ive had the car 3 weeks and the check engine light has come on 3 times, so Im leary about taking it on long trips. With all of this hassel Ive not had the time to enjoy the new car. Anyone have a similiar experience?