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 151 through 160 of 322.00

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  Fun to Drive and Cool for the Price - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Maz3 - May 21 - 6:40 pm

  This car is very fun to drive, especially with the 5 speed manual. Ride is firm and sporty, it sticks to the road like gum. Interior is cool to look at and feel of materials is up to par with other Japanese makers. The design is the best for cars in this group! Check engine light came on about 1500 miles, but that was just a gas cap issue, no problem. Although the 12v outlet did blow a fuse, replaced of course, again no big deal.

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  Sporty little sedan - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Midiexpert - May 16 - 1:13 am

  This is my 4th Mazda, and the Mazda3 is a terrific upgrade from the Protege I previously owned. Handling is secure and precise, acceleration is good and the auto transmission is smooth. My fuel mileage has been a little bit less than I had expected, but still good. This is a fun car to drive and has a more expensive feel to it.

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  Good buy for your $ - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By KMJ - May 15 - 11:33 am

  I love my mazda 3GT. (2.3) Its a great car for someone who is single or with a small family. It HANDLES VERY WELL..the manual transmission shifts nicely and the power-performance is surprising for a smaller car. I drove a a civic (exc SI), Corolla and Calliber and for about the same price ...it is by far a better buy!!!!

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  Rewarding little car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By lamis - April 23 - 11:56 pm

  Bought this M3 to have some fun and save on gas in daily city driving. For the fun part, its delivered above and beyond expectations. Handling, braking, road attitude, looks are great, surprisingly quick for a 2L AT, nice and roomy interior. Sadly, I must have gotten the thirsty one on the lot, hardly gets 25 mpg in the summer and 22- 23 in the winter. Suspension is perfect for zipping around town, but highway rides longer than 1 hr get a bit uncomfortable. Overall outstanding value.

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  Excellent overall - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By guinzuz - March 29 - 2:50 pm

  The fit an finish on the car is outstanding. Both exterior and interior styling are top-notch. Car is sporty to drive even with the smaller 2.0. Very practical and reliable. Driving position is very comfortable. Visibility is excellent. I would highly recommend this car.

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  Best car I ever owned - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Karl Scharf - March 28 - 12:40 pm

  Had my Mazda 3i for 3 Months, absolutely love it! It handles like a sports car and gets about 30 MPG in mixed driving. The manual transmission is excellent, acceleration is more than adequate. Never had more fun driving since the old days, when I owned a 54 Studebaker Lowe Coupe.

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  My new hobby is driving... - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Addicted to Driving - March 25 - 12:16 pm

  I just bought a black Mazda 3 GT (with the leather and GFX package) with sunroof, 6 disc stereo, black leather, 17" rims, rain sensing wipers, 5 speed auto transmission with manual shifter, heated seats etc. To start off I was limited to an automatic transmission as my wife doesnt drive a 5 speed. Fortunately the Mazda 3 has a automatic with a 5 speed manual shifter also. Sweet. From the first turn of the key on the test drive I was impressed. My wife loved the punchy engine, excellent handling, leather, heated seats. The interior is amazing for a car in this class. At night the gauges turn blue and orange. Really nice. When you drive this car you will soon realize you have made an excellent decision.

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  Best Car EVER! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By David - March 7 - 4:36 am

  The car is an amazing piece of machinery. I recently took a defensive driving course; the participants were other economy sedans. Out of all of them the Mazda3 performed the best. It stops on a dime and handles extremely well. I was the only driver that went through the entire four hour course without knocking over any cones. Best car I have ever owned.

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  Brand new, and extremely impressed! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By HALEX - March 4 - 7:43 pm

  2.0 VVT is lively with a stick. Air, in spite of past complaints, worked fine today in 88 degree, sunny and muggy day. Gearshift is smooth and direct. Steering is very secure; interior plastics have high quality feel to the touch. Engine feels very refined. Got 31 mpg on first gas tank in 50 50 city/highway driving (remember, still brand new, has 400 miles on car!) - cant wait until break in period is over!

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  My Mazda - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Donna - March 1 - 2:40 pm

  This car drives nice and smooth, you cant even tell when the engine is running. It has a lot of storage room. Its perfect. The only thing I dont like is the fact that it doesnt have power locks or windows. Anyone thinking about this car should definitely opt for one that has that. Its just a hassle to use the key to open the door. Then you have to reach over and open the door for other people.