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 81 through 90 of 322.00

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  Get a 3, forget the new Civic - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sam Brenner - December 17 - 12:03 am

  After owning a 2006 Honda Civic EX coupe for just 4 months, I was very UNDERWHELMED by this vehicle. Fortunately, my local Mazda dealer was eager to sell me a new Mazda3 S Touring sedan. What a difference in vehicles! My 3 has much more pickup; has better visibility (I can actually see both the front and rear of the Mazda); and is great fun to drive! The Honda did get a few more miles-per-gallon, but I am getting even more SMILES-PER-GALLON in my new Mazda3.

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  BIG CAR FEELING IN A NEAT PACKAGE - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Billy Mac - December 6 - 5:56 am

  Went to dealership to buy a Mazda Tribute as I wanted sport utility functionality. I drove the Tribute and then saw the Mazda 3; took a test drive and bought the car based on its comfort, looks and the ride is superb compared to the Tribute. Fun to drive and it has great gadgets: radio, driver information center, etc.

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  3rd Mazda - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By CJ - November 25 - 2:46 pm

  This is my third Mazda, and probably not my last. As always, I am quite impressed with their product. Tons of fun to drive, and fairly economical. Averaging 26 MPG thus far with "spirited" driving, have reached 31 when taking it easy. Not bad for a car that is this fun to drive.

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  BMW couldnt make a car better for the money - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By ksmo - November 13 - 11:50 am

  Ive just started commuting 50 miles a day, so I decided to trade in the 7 year old Dodge Stratus. While looking for one car to manage a commute, a car seat, and a yearning for my old 86 GTI, I drove my sister-in-laws Mazda 3s sedan. Great car, but not quite right with an automatic. I finally test drove a 3s wagon with a manual and fell in love. This is a better GTI than the current VW is! It makes no sacrifices in its pursuit of greatness. I bought my red one that same day. Test drive one asap. (But get financed first!).

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  Amazing Car For All Ages! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By JSAP123 - November 10 - 1:06 pm

  I bought a Mazda 3 in Winning Blue straight out of the showroom...all I can say is wow! It is a very "rich" looking car, but doesnt kill your wallet. I purchased mine for $21,000, tax and title included. It now has 15,000 miles on it and its been nothing but happy days. Just look around and youll see that the Mazda 3 is at the head of its class in almost every category. What amazed me was that insurance was cheaper for my 06 Mazda than for a 06 Honda Civic, 05 VW Jetta, and a 06 Honda Accord. If youre looking for a sporty, sophisticated, and fun car the Mazda 3 is it!

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  Great Fun Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Erich - November 2 - 5:40 pm

  Gave my reliable 97 Ford Escort to a church and got a new Mazda3. Its lots of fun and feels great. I thought it was head and shoulders better than the 2006 Civic.

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  sporty econo car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By fil - October 30 - 1:16 am

  I traded a 99 Mazda Protege with a Mazda 3 and although the review for the last generation Protege were great, the Mazda 3 is far greater car in handling and driveability. I think the switch to the 2 liter is the key. I can now zoom-zoom with the upscale midsize sedans like the Accord, Camry, and yes the Mazda 6. Great car driving experience for the money. Definitely test drive one; it drives like a big car.

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  There is always room to improve... - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Marcelo - October 25 - 7:30 pm

  I love this car! Fun to drive, great performance, very comfortable. I looked for a compact and got the cream of the cream of Mazda 3. All the optionals. The Bose sound system is unbelievable. The car totally sticks to the road. For a compact I hardly could be more satisfied, but I am a perfectionist. For the cream of the cream, they could offer a few more features. How come they dont have the option of power seats? How come the car keys look so cheap? Overall, it is great (otherwise I would not buy it), but there is always room for improvement.

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  Wow, its a winner! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kelly - October 11 - 3:16 am

  This is an excellent car. It is our second Mazda3, we also own a 2004 model which has given excellent service. Im averaging better than 32 MPG in mostly mixed driving. Steering and handling are at a level well above what would be considered acceptable for an economy compact. This car is more of a sport sedan than some cars costing thousands more.

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  Mazda 3S - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By JS - September 26 - 2:16 am

  Wife and I have been looking for a new car for more than a year. Test drove Honda, Toyota and the Mazda 3S. Didnt take very long to fall in love with this car. More solid from stem to stern. Handling, braking and road authority in a different league. Very smooth, fast and safe. Begs to be driven. Mazda must have taken apart a BMW 3 series. This car must be German. A lot of car for $18K! Well see how reliable it is over time. Paid extra for the 100 K warranty.