Overview & Reviews

All new for 2004, the Mazda 3 receives only minor changes for 2005. The four-door "i" model gets a new 15-inch wheel cover design, and Sirius Satellite Radio is now available on all models.

• Fun-to-drive character, stylish interior design, strong engines, hatchback utility.

• Ride might be too stiff for some, a few ergonomic quirks, tight rear legroom.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 303.00

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  Very good but not great - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Veronica - February 26 - 2:20 am

  I bought this Mazda after trading in my 1999 Protege ES (which I loved)with 110K miles. There are a few things I notice with the 3 that arent as good as the Protege. First is the stereo. The new one is VERY weak. That was one of the impressive things about the Protege - given that it was a small economy car. Second are small things like the window controls and vanity mirrors. The quality isnt the same. It seems like the new version uses cheaper, flimsy parts. The leather wrapped steering wheel feels like sandpaper. The old one felt great. The AC in this car is extremely weak. I could run it on full blast all day and never get really cold. Back seat is not as roomy.

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  3 year 60000 mile test drive - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By mzdvr - February 10 - 11:13 am

  Been driving this car for 3 yrs now and still think its the best car under $25,000. I havent had any mechanical problems. Had a brake job at 50,000 and new tires. I live in the city and get a combined 27 mpg. I have a gas gauge which commonly reports mpg in the middle to upper 30s on the highway. There is minimal wear on the car after 60k such as a small area of the stitching on the leather seat has come out, a few exterior issues due to things happening to it.

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  The Wifes Toy - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Chris Review - December 6 - 11:46 pm

  Overall this is a very good car. We had some issues early with the dealership and the rear spoiler (color). The car just went into the shop for a leak in the transmission. The dealership says there was a leak at the temperature sensor that was not mounted flush. This leak was discovered at 3,500 miles at a local mechanic -- not the dealer. The car does plow in corners when speed is applied. My wife loves the car and its "pep." The fuel economy is a little weaker than I thought it might be. It also might be our lead foot as well.

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  My cool red 3 - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By islanderon - November 21 - 1:23 pm

  Bought my car in March 2004. Very sporty and comfortable. Ride is firm but not too firm, makes for a great highway cruiser. All over very happy with it . Despite reports of tight rear seat, back seat in quite spacious in my opinion. I recommmend it highly.

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  good car with irritating problem - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By erwin - November 1 - 12:20 pm

  The car is overall well made, except for the "Check Engine" light that came on at 87 miles (and has been coming on every couple of miles or so). The dealer can give me no real explanation. it is a huge hassle to have to go to the dealer for them to "fix" the problem (which they probably just disconnect the battery for a minute or so). Otherwise, a great car.

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  Great deal for a great car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By t. p. - August 29 - 10:13 pm

  My first new car purchase. Ive had this car for 3 weeks now and it is great. I enjoy driving it everyday (plus you dont feel so bad b/c it gets very good gas mileage). Mine has ABS/sideairbags, moonroof, 6 disk, tpms, 5 spd, xenon,step plates, wheel moldings and diffuserplate. I would suggest finding one with ABS/airbags b/c tests show poor side impact ratings w/o sideairbags. ABS brakes feel great stopping the car. Step plates are good cheap option for protecting rear bumper. I would not suggest buying arch moldings or diffuser since they are non- functional. Ride is firm which I like. I highly recommend this vehicle. Get the stick if you can; manumatic will not allow downshifting as i wish

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  Love the look - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Pamela - July 5 - 6:46 pm

  I was captivated by the exterior of the Mazda3 hatch. I had been to Europe before purchasing the car and I liked the the look of many cars there. The Mazda3 looked almost European. The power windows and keyless entry float my boat. Im not used to luxury. The disappointing 24 mpg city surprised me. My very old Toyota Corolla did better than that. The suspension is a letdown. When taking turns I dont feel the tightness of a former Honda Accord. Its very similar to the Corolla. The price at $18,300 is reasonable. "Winning Blue" is an eye popper.

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  EXCELLENT!!!!! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Eric Borenstein - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I bought it last month and i had no problems with this car.This car drives similar to a BMW,including the radio looks like a BMW,Its a really a fun car to drive!!

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  Awesome car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By me - April 30 - 1:16 pm

  This is just a terrific car. Reliability has been very good except for shocks and battery been replaced at 24k (Puerto Rico roads are awful), otherwise excellent. Power is impressive for a 4 cyl engine, and ride comfort is acceptable despite having 17s on 50 series tires. Handling is awesome, it just sticks like glue. In the end, the best compact you can buy today

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  fuel pump/car starting problem - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By bryan - February 23 - 11:13 pm

  i purchased my mazda3s 3 months ago. in the second month (4000 miles) i began to have problems starting my car. on the initial start up, the car would crank, but would not start; i would have to turn the car off & then re-start it in order for the engine to start. serviced @ dealership; they stated it was fuel pump, dealership replaced fuel pump, car worked for 3 weeks & 600 miles later (4600 miles) car is not starting again; cranks but will not start. currently no recall