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-
Awesome car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By DrJ - June 16 - 1:50 amIve 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 pmMy 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 pmOverall, 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 pmIve 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.
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Great little car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By ksga - May 1 - 7:50 amAfter only 3 weeks of ownership, I can say I dont think Ill regret this purchase. Very fun to drive (great acceleration with manual transmission), stylish inside and out, and best of all...good fuel economy (33mpg for combined city/hwy). My biggest concern was small size of car since my last car was an SUV. Yes, smaller, but amazing trunk room and interior is roomier than expected. I researched cars to death before buying and this one really stood out from the rest for TCO (true cost of ownership), reliability and consumer satisfaction. Originally was looking at Mazda6 hatchback, but extra cost for not a whole lot more room, and drop in fuel economy made the 3 look like the winner.
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I love my Mazda 3 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By NikkiMarieV - April 6 - 11:06 amI just love my new Mazda, it really does have the heart of a sport car. The stying is wonderful, it looks a small BMW.
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Easily the best compact for the money - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By James - April 3 - 9:23 pmI fell in love with the car when it first came out, replacing the interesting Protege 5 with a more substantial car with a much beefier engine. The Mazda3 5-door brings fun, quality, and style to the compact market without sacrificing price and fuel economy too much. I tend to get 23-27MPG in the city with fairly aggressive acceleration. The seats in the 5-doors are a high quality cloth, with a great look and feel. I am tall at 62", and I fit comfortably in the driver seat. I even have it forward a click, and if I do not recline my seat too much, I can get a 6 foot person behind me. Much more room than my friends 04 Jetta. Overall, it is a great car with features and quality to boot.
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Awesome Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Natalie - March 14 - 11:40 amI got my Mazda almost 2 months ago. It is my first car, and I absolutely love it. Everybody is jealous! It gets great gas mileage around town, and the interstate mileage isnt bad either. It is a really great car, and its the best to drive. I recommend this car to anyone who is looking for a sporty sedan. It has plenty of room for you and 4 other people. For all the options that you get compared to other cars in its class, it is a number one pick, especially for the price.
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Finally, a car thats fun & economical! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Jennifer - February 18 - 1:50 pmI originally tried to lease the Mazda 3 back in Jan., but the payments were too high and I really didnt want to pay $1000s and have nothing to show for it three years from now. By the end of March, I was ready to buy. I had already taken a test drive of the Mazda in Jan., and was really impressed. I tested it against the Civic and Corolla (just like another reviewer) and felt the same way--the Corolla was completely unimpressive and very boring, and Ive driven enough Civics to know that, as reliable a car as they are, Ill be like the other 5 million people who have one in LA. After my second test drive of the Mazda, I was sold, and have been very happy with my choice.
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Car for all ages! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Julian - February 16 - 1:23 amThis car is very fun to drive and has a lot of power to give when you need it. With its automatic transmission theres no worry, but also offers a "Slap stick" which allows you to choose gears for those quick 0-60 runs. The gauge clusters sharp looks, controls at your finger tips, and the feel of driving it is sure to please all drivers. Over all I give it a 10 out of 10, this car is sure not to disappoint. ZOOM- ZOOM.
