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 41 through 50 of 322.00

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  Mazda3 Review - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By pmoney - October 18 - 10:36 am

  The manual car is fun to drive. Sometimes changing the gear is not smooth. The fuel economy is not so great but you forget about it once you start driving the car. The interior design is better than Civic and Corolla in my opinion. The price is reasonable compared to a Civic.

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  Everyone Should Drive This Car! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kaye - September 15 - 2:46 am

  This car has it all! It looks like an expensive European car. It is really fun to drive. The upholstery fabric, interior, and dashboard look great. I love the dashboard lights at night. Storage spaces are functional. Sound system great. It makes climbing hills a breeze. I did my homework purchasing this car. I couldnt be more pleased with my purchase.

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  Awesome. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By poulain145 - August 18 - 1:00 pm

  I have had my blue, automatic, S Hatch for over a year and I absolutely love it. It is by far my favorite vehicle that I have ever had. I love the styling, and the roomy interior. The quality of the interior is very nice, and the car gives a very smooth ride. I dont have the road noise problem that some people have complained about. Its far more quiet than the Corolla I had before. I drove this car from Phoenix to San Diego in July and it was great. I must say that insurance on this vehicle is a bit expensive when compared to the Toyota I had before. One complaint that I have is that the air pressure gauge light is always coming on and I find myself putting air in my tires a lot.

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  Great Job Mazda... - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mazda_Owner06 - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I do have to admit that this car, exceeded my expectations. I came from a 2003 Honda Accord and the Accord does not compare to this Mazda. The driving, handling, styling and fun factor for this car has been done well by Mazda. Ive got 11,000 miles on this car, so I felt that now would be a decent time to put down a review. Among other compacts I would go with this vehicle. It also the best pick vehicle in its category. This rating is for a S-Grand Touring with Navigation model. Im also getting 25-28 MPG, which is better than expected. Plus the paint does not chip like Honda and unlike Honda, I have had no squeaks or rattles. The interiors fit/finish is well done.

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  Best choice EVER - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ericka - July 19 - 8:20 am

  I did my fair share of researching on this car and to my delight, it was everything I hoped for. It handles very well and has enough "get up and go" to keep me smiling. The smaller engine is fine for me due to the high gas prices. I still cant believe they packed all this fun into under $20,000.

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  Great Little Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By erin - July 13 - 8:33 pm

  I have had my mazda3 for about 2 years now, and have not really had any complaints. The original tires that came on it sucked in the rain and snow, but after putting new tires on it, have had no problems. I have put almost 40000 miles on it in over 2 years and do a lot of driving, and it definatly holds its own. I couldnt believe the pick-up that this little 4 cylinder car had! I definitely recommend these little cars to anyone who is looking.

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  Awesome car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By DrJ - June 16 - 1:50 am

  Ive had two Maximas and one Infiniti I30 and this Grand Touring is more fun, has more toys on it and handles better than any car Ive had so far. I love this vehicle - solid, handles well, stylish and FUN to drive.

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  impressive...very impressive - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By paul0346 - May 8 - 11:33 pm

  My wife and I own a dog, and with our first child on the way, we desired a vehicle that would allow us to keep the dog away from the baby, and have the space to carry a pack n play crib when we drive to visit our relatives, that still gave us decent gas mileage (i.e. SUVs were out). We researched the Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe, VW Jetta Wagon, and the Mazda 3 wagon. After test-driving all vehicles, the 3 stood head and shoulders above the rest in regards to performance, comfort and styling. We are very impressed with our 3!

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  Love this car. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By John Moses - May 7 - 12:26 pm

  Overall, I have been extremely happy with my new Mazda 3. The i Touring edition, while not lush, is comfortable and well designed. Driving the car feels natural, with a sporty engine and great suspension. The car holds the road with minimal roll, and I believe that this is partly because of the standard stabilizer bar and multi-link suspension. Gas mileage is also great, around 32 mpg. Overall the cost of ownership is great. And with such a low sticker price, its a hard deal to beat.

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  Fun to Drive, Handy to Have - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By newToMazda - May 6 - 10:10 pm

  Ive had a manual 3s Hatch now for exactly a month--it has 1300 miles. Reasonable mileage (26-27 on suburban errands). Excellent for doing U-turns into parking spaces, taking stuff to the county trash-pickup, and transporting model airplanes with wings attached. Very high quality of assembly.