Overview & Reviews

For 2006, the Mazda 3 benefits from the addition of variable valve timing to the 2.0-liter engine and the availability of a five-speed automatic transmission on models with the 2.3-liter engine. Additionally, the 2.3-liter engine is now PZEV-certified in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont. Models with air conditioning get a pollen filter and outside temperature display on the center console. ABS and variable-intermittent front wipers become part of the standard features list for all 2.3-liter models. Also, a couple of new Touring trims are added to the lineup.

• Superbly refined suspension, steering and brakes, sharp styling inside and out, smooth engines, excellent build and materials quality, hatchback utility.

• Ride might be a tad stiff for some, tight rear legroom, so-so fuel economy with 2.3-liter engine.

User Reviews:

Showing 111 through 120 of 322.00

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  Great car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By vaibhav - July 21 - 12:00 pm

  Great car to have as compared to Civic. Much better in handling and interiors are of superior quality. Its like a mini-Mercedes for $18k.

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  made driving fun again - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By motomike - June 19 - 8:33 am

  Although I just bought it I can smell potential. Out of the box it handles great, more so than you would expect. I drove all cars in this class and not only was the 3 better, it was thousands less. Leaving money for goodies. Really the only thing wrong with it is even with sport package and 17s it still comes with all-season tires. Take them off asap replace with 205/45/17zr and it sticks like glue. I have nothing but positive things to say. Out of every car Ive had this one Im truly happy with. Drive it, youll see. For the money nothing even comes close.

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  Disappointing Fuel Economy - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By NYCDriver - June 16 - 10:00 pm

  Bought the 2006 Mazda 3i Touring after owning a Honda Accord for 12 years. Drove it as a rental in 2005 and was impressed. I bought the smaller engine because of the variable valve timing and have been underwhelmed with the pick up and MPG. Have not gotten better than 23MPG in the city or 25MPG highway. Has a tendency to throttle down while holding accelerator in 50- 60mph range. I think this is what kills the mileage. Hopefully its only a sensor that needs adjusting.

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  Wonderful Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Steph - June 14 - 10:46 pm

  I leased my Mazda3 3 years ago. The lease is up next week and let me tell you Ill miss it. Unfortunately, space wise, its not up to my standards anymore since I now have a 2 yr. old daughter. It was a true joy having this car. Excellent gas mileage, cute, sporty, peppy (I have a manual) and durable. My right front tire leaks air faster than the others but aside from that I havent had ONE ISSUE!!! Whoever is lucky enough to get this car after me is buying a dream!

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  Fun to Zoom Zoom - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Randy - June 12 - 7:20 pm

  I cant begin to tell you how impressed I am with this car, for its price group it has the features of a much more expensive car without the high end maintenance bills. Its fun to drive and it definitely turns heads, I often see people trying to get a look at the emblem to see "what it is" as it does not look like an economy car but more so a high end Euro coupe.

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  Best Economy Car! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By MSP - June 3 - 6:33 am

  I have the base model with the A/T 4-speed transmission, A/C and the safety package: ABS, side curtain airbags. So far I love this car. Drives great and the dealership was really willing to deal. Make sure you at least test drive this thing! Dont just go buy a Corolla because its a Toyota! Great Buy!

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  best car ever - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By brynmarie - May 29 - 8:30 pm

  I just bought the car and WOW! I am loving it. Very easy on the eyes, like its driver! Safety was my key factor for this car. Its like a giant pillow with so many airbags it has in it. Also, fuel efficiency is great too. Im lovin it.

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  Mazda is a Great Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bleslie - April 9 - 4:46 am

  Interior was the main disappointment - quality of material for the floor carpet could be better - seems to wear quickly. Seat material (black interior) shows all the dirt, doesnt release dirt or hair easily when vacuumed and does not release spills easily when cleaning. Static shocks constantly when exiting car. Gauges and speedometer are recessed making them hard to read - need to turn on lights in order to see them well. Great big huge glove box! Great leg room in front and rear. Handles beautifully, good mileage (promised 39 MPG, get 31 MPG on average, but that is a lot better than the 21 MPG on our previous car).

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  Love at first drive - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Maxine Hunt - March 24 - 3:23 pm

  Bought this car with 8,000 miles from private owner, although I test drove a new one and my son owned a 2004 that I liked very much. From the first day I loved everything about this little car. Theres plenty of room with the seats down and thats how I normally drive to accommodate my three dogs. Fun to drive, with no effort. Its almost like virtual driving compared to other cars I tested. The body style is attractive and Mazda apparently offers a nearly endless list of options as this car has it all. My next vehicle will be one just like this. I do suggest purchasing a set of winter tires that adds confidence to winter driving and makes the zoom zoom last all year.

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  Cheap Thrills - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Agent Smith - March 19 - 10:00 am

  This is a terrific car. Outstanding chassis and suspension and tight steering lead to amazing handling and stability. The ride is firm but not harsh. The 2.3L 4 cyl runs strong. I love the 5 sp auto-stick. In 2nd and 3rd gears it pulls like crazy, maxing out the torque. For a small car, it feels very solid on the interstate at speed. Disappointments include gas mileage in city @ 20 mpg; original tires wore out at 20,000 mi; and I just replaced the rotors at 25,000 mi. re: rotors, ironically, the pads were fine. Otherwise zero issues. I would buy another one in a heartbeat.