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 11 through 20 of 322.00

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  The BMW from Hiroshima - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By teamsc10190 - June 20 - 10:40 pm

  This car is so dialed-in and direct it is a sheer pleasure to drive. I cant wait to get behind the wheel at every opportunity I get. If youre undecided which compact car to buy, drive this one and your decision will be made. I love this thing! This is really a great piece of work. I want to run out buy another one.

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  loving it - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By love it - June 12 - 7:06 pm

  Wow, Ive driven a Blazer for 4 years, decided to get a car. Never had a Mazda, but glad I read the reviews. This car is awesome, has everything you need for such a great price. Dont bother looking anywhere else for a compact car, this is it!

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  Best small car in its class. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Reggie - June 2 - 6:33 pm

  This is a very fun car to drive. My wife and I was looking for a small car for our daughter to drive to school thats very safe. I was looking at the Honda Civic and the Chevy Cobalt only because it had OnStar in it. My daughter likes the Mazda3; I must say Im glad she did, cause I love this car too. I may buy one for me.

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  Still A Great Little Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By R. H. Jackson - April 25 - 4:50 am

  I now have 7000 miles on the Mazda 3s Grand Touring and I am very pleased. The options, ride, performance, instrumentation, and handling are outstanding for a car in this price range. I have experienced no problems. I have only been back to the dealer for oil changes and tire rotation. Everyone who sees this car thinks it is a more expensive car than it is.

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  Love my car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By carol - April 20 - 12:56 am

  Ive had my hatchback for three weeks and absolutely love it. The ride is smooth and the car definitely has great pickup. The folding seats are great for storage and very easy to get up and down. It is a really comfortable car to drive. The air conditioning is good, the stereo great and the interior is very comfortable.

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  Unbelievable - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Unbeilevable - February 28 - 1:33 am

  I almost bought the BMW 325. A friend bought this car; I was so impressed with it that I decided to buy the Mazda instead and I am not sorry. Automatic climate control, heated leather seats, xenon headlamps, auto rain sensors the list goes on all for $20,000.00 I love this car! I saved about $12,000. Average mph is 28-30 for me (had an X-Terra that got 15 mph so I am thrilled). Cannot say enough about this car.

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  Six months in - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By JT in SC - February 23 - 6:50 am

  Updating my earlier review: I have had my Mazda 3 i Touring (with manual transmission) for six months now (just over 7500 miles). I am still very happy. Fuel economy has actually gotten better! And thats with running the A/C much more. I am getting around 31-32 around town and 34-35 on the highway. It is still a solid performer and just as much fun to drive.

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  Owned my 06 M3 for 1 week.....GT Hatchback - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Gruffydd - February 4 - 10:03 am

  Other than the crack in the windshield I got while driving to Vegas (in less than 12 hours of ownership) I love this car. Fun to drive, fast (you need to remember that 60mph is not on the top of the speedometer, but at 90 degree angle.) Lots of room - 3 suitcases would have fit. I like the folding seats, the plastic tray, the little compartment to the right inside the hatchback. Comfortable on long trips. I like the automatic climate control Still trying to figure out what all the displays mean.

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  SAYYYWEEETTTT!!!! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By STERN1 - January 29 - 12:33 pm

  I purchased this brand new, loaded. I drove 500mi a week to and from work..this car is AWESOME!! It was red mica w/ black leather. I just sold this car to a family member and REGRET doing so. Only complaint is i was on my 3rd set of tires (low profile).. other than that NO problems.. I was averaging 29-32mpg with regular gas.. S Grand Touring(loaded)is the way to go.. Bi-xenion headlights DO make a difference.. especially in fog and with deer... Kids are comfy in backseat, big adults may not be as comfortable.. Great economical and reliable car.. Mazda got it right with this one!!! LOVED IT!!!

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  2006 Mazda 3 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By surfrider1978 - January 16 - 7:13 pm

  I love this vehicle. Its stylish and runs great. Ive had zero problems with it since I bought in 2006. I owned a Honda Civic before, but the Mazda 3 is definitely beats it out on performance and pricing. I recommend this vehicle to first time buyers since is affordable, stylish, and runs great.