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 121 through 130 of 322.00-
Fun car except 1 Flaw! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By ddkway - March 12 - 7:20 amQuick, agile car begging to be driven. One drawback is the car has a quick to appear symptom of strong vibration from the front when moderate to strong acceleration is applied. The dealer speculated it seemed like a loose motor mount, but on investigation by their tech they could only determine it was the nature of the car to have wheel hop. It comes on quite easily and is embarrassing and somewhat hard to explain to passengers when it occurs as it is quite loud. Im thinking the addition of traction control to the 07 model was to help rectify this. All the other good comments you see about this car are right on the money!
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I cant believe its under 20k! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Ben - March 7 - 9:53 pmThis car has been a blast to drive. Anyone looking for a sub-20 car should certainly consider this car. No other car in my eyes measured up in terms of the visual appeal or build quality. After careful deliberation, I arrived at the decision to buy it after driving the competition. The difference was so obvious I immediately sought out a 3 for myself. Just drive it.
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This Car is Great! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Joe - March 4 - 1:40 pmThe Mazda 3 is a wonderful car. I was looking to purchase either the Mazda 3 or a Honda Civic. After testing both, there was no comparison. I got a 2006 Mazda 3 S Touring edition with 5 speed automatic transmission. I also decided to get the moon-roof/CD package which is well worth the extra dollars if you can afford it. The gas mileage has been great. Im averaging right around 30 miles per gallon. This car is so much fun to drive no matter if you are on back-roads with no traffic, on the highway, or sitting in gridlock. The response time is very quick and the suspension is superb. Its neat to see other people turning their heads to look at my car.
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Not Impressed - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Jake Christensen - February 26 - 6:26 pmI have not been very happy with this car. It does not get the gas mileage the sticker on the window said it would and I feel it is very poorly built. I believe they used cheap products to built this car. Everything from the paint on the outside to the carpet on the inside. Dont get me wrong; I think it is a very stylish car and it is fun to drive. But I would not recommend it to anyone.
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Fun and Practical - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By StanleyD - February 21 - 9:46 amThe 5-door hatch makes excellent use of interior space. I can carry my bicycle inside along with enough luggage for two people. Seats and controls are excellent. Optional leather seats are great. Gearing is a bit too short so its easy to chirp front wheels when starting with manual trans. Back seat is comfortable for two. Acceleration is snappy but runs out of power at high speeds. Gas mileage is a disappointment. I have averaged 23.5 mpg in 10,900 miles of mostly suburban driving. It was rated at 26 city, 32 hwy. Completely reliable. Id buy it again.
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Mazda 3s - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By tdshaul - February 14 - 10:00 pmI love it. I looked for 3 months for the car that would best suit my needs, comparing Sentra, Civic, Focus, Cobalt and Jetta. Based on my research and multiple test drives of each car I found the Mazda 3 to be the best choice. I chose the Mazda 3s with the moonroof/6CD package, side airbags/curtains, the wheel locks and the all season floor mats. I have found the car to be fun to drive and of remarkable quality. I average between 28-30mpg and put on around 2000 miles a month. It is an all around excellent car that adds excitement to my long drives and will be with me for many years to come. Best of luck with your purchase!
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Zoom Zoom, then Break Down - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Buy a Honda Instead - February 14 - 4:23 amAt 24K, my Mazda3 needed a new bearing. The car is high strung like a German sports sedan, but lacks the quality engineering. Mazda is trying to build the poor mans BMW. They got the poor man part right. My 2006 Mazda replaced an 87 Honda Accord with 160K. Over 19 years, I had to replace the CV joints in the Honda and didnt have any other major problems. After 24K, the Mazda slipped a bearing. Here is another fun facts: In order to fit the "ZoomZoom" image, a supposed economy car requires V rated tires. My car ate up a set of Avon radials in 22K. Just be prepared to spend $600 plus on your tires.
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Mazda3 5 door - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By fox - January 21 - 2:43 amThe car has had zero problems in 50K miles. It is fun to drive and not a mushmobile like the competition. Great performance for the price! Smooth and quiet engine with a wide torque band. Standard transmission shifts great, precise and easy.
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After 3 months, its still fun to drive - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Thierry J.B. - January 8 - 2:16 pmIve had my Mazda3 5-door for 3 months and still I love to drive it. If youre thinking about getting one and you love music, get it with the moonroof audio package.
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little blue devil! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By monk - December 29 - 4:00 amEverything in the car is great. : ) i give it an A++++++. i traded my Honda Accord for this bad boy. Its handling is superb and gas mileage is great; interior is like driving a BMW. I recommend this car to everybody.
