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 71 through 80 of 322.00

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  Arrest Me Red Mazda 3 Sport GT - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By XPTaurus - October 11 - 10:50 am

  I own the Mazda 3 Sport GT. I was a die hard Honda fan. One look and a test drive changed all that! I absolutely love this car! Thanks Mazda. Its got the feel of a formula vehicle.You can actually feel it in the drive. Handles great in our harsh Canadian winters. I know because I have an hour drive to work every morning then an hour home every night. I even tried talking my wife into getting one. Thanks again Mazda.

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  The winning choice. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Marc - September 28 - 11:16 am

  I compared the Civic and Corolla before this purchase and took each for a test drive. The Corolla and Civic both have better gas mileage but have less pickup/power as well. The Corolla simply wasnt fun to drive and the Civic was too pricey. Dealer offered me more than TMV for my trade in, $500 less than invoice and NO FEES! Honda wanted invoice, they waived the fees but offered my $1500 less than TMV for my trade in. In the end, I decided the extra performance and cash made the Mazda3 a better choice. After a month of driving, the Mazda3 handles so well, I have to pay more attention or I find myself way over the speed limit without feeling it.

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  Most fun car Ive ever owned - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By allfiredup - September 16 - 6:46 am

  This is my first Mazda, after driving Hondas for the past 14 years. The exceptional handling, performance and design of the 3 won out over the improved fuel economy of the Honda. I feel like Im driving a $30k car, not an $18k one. Everyone who rides in or drives it, loves it!

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  One great car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By David - September 12 - 9:16 pm

  My previous car was a 1992 Acura Integra which I really enjoyed. When I started looking for a new car I wanted a sporty 4 door at a good price. After driving the 3s I knew that it was the one for me. I bought a 2006 3s Touring with 5 speed manual in January and still think it is a great car. I love the 5 speed manual and the acceleration it has. I especially enjoy taking it out on the nearby windy roads. The car handles great. You definitely get the Zoom Zoom out of this one.

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  nice car, happy with my purchase - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By CZBrian - August 16 - 10:03 pm

  I bought this car to keep the miles off my truck and save on gas. Im really happy with my purchase. The car is nice to drive, handles well, and has pretty good performance for a four cylinder.

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  Mazda3 very Audi-like - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rex - August 15 - 3:20 pm

  Replaced a 2002 Infiniti Q45 with this little gem, which has almost as many "goodies" at about 1/3rd the price. Was looking for a disposable "commuter car" with decent mileage and some measure of driving fun. I considered Prius (boring), Civic Hybrid (cheesy), Audi A3 & A4 (great cars for people that like to drive), Acura TSX (just a fancy Accord), and BMW 3 (too, well, pretentious) before trying the Mazda, and had just about settled on the Audi A3. I had never driven a Mazda and was very pleasantly surprised. Good (not great, but considering the price, good) performance and handling, gorgeous interior, and enough electronic toys to make the morning commute almost entertaining. Two thumbs up.

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  4th car, now my primary one. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Virginian - August 8 - 12:36 pm

  Great car. Its comfortable to drive and has an outstanding 4-speed automatic transmission. Best manual climate control system I have ever seen - very precise controls over temperature. The 2.0l has lots of power for any type of driving and is very smooth and quite. First few tanks of gas exceeded 30+ mpg in mixed driving. This is my 4th car but the one I now drive the most.

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  Love my Mazda3! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Stephano - July 23 - 12:26 am

  I absolutely love my little car. Its sporty but spacious inside. It is easily maneuvered on the road and gets great gas mileage!

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  Get one! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By caitshappy - July 4 - 10:20 am

  Entry level sport sedan that has all the options of BMW or Lexus, without the price or maintenance issues. Handles like a true sports car. Average 25 mpg with 30 hwy. Road noise is an issue but with proper tire choice you can reduce the noise. Super smooth gear box and clutch with outstanding disc brakes on all corners. The grand touring is a must as it has all options and is inexpensive. I dont believe in buying strip models as they are a dime a dozen and resale is poor. Mine is a 06 grand touring with 18,000 original miles. I paid 13.500 in n. California. Research your vehicle and then buy a lot of car for cheap.

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  ALMOST perfect - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By vman - June 5 - 3:40 am

  Great all around car. Handles like a dream (Volvo S40 underpinnings). Brakes like a roller coaster. Quick revving engine. Auto transmission is eager to downshift, sometimes too eager. Only gripes, no MP3 input and mileage from EPA overstated. If you are considering a Civic, Corolla or a Rabbit, get your head examined. They are a joke. If you are looking at a Civic Si, look at the MazdaSpeed 3. No comparing the two.