Overview & Reviews

Mazda has a tradition of building entertaining small cars, and the Mazda 3 fits right in with its sharp handling and engaging nature. But it's also a practical, affordable runabout that's available as either a sedan or a handy four-door hatchback. A Mazda 3 of any vintage is worth consideration, but the 3's interior quality has improved dramatically over time. Likewise, fuel economy has emerged as a real strength in recent years.

Introduced in 2004, the Mazda 3 has always been one of those cars that feels a little bit special when you get behind the wheel. Some shoppers might find the ride too firm, but if you like to drive, you'll probably take a shine to this compact Mazda. Passenger room is the same in the sedan and hatchback, but the latter offers more cargo room. If fuel economy is a priority, note that 2012 and later models benefit from updated engine technology that helps the car return significantly better mileage.

User Reviews:

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  Love it! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By D2nmary - July 13 - 5:23 am

  Just got my little 5 spd Mazda 3 in Mica Solar Yellow. woe, it really turns heads. Fun to drive.

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  Wow! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jay - July 13 - 1:00 am

  This is truly the best available vehicle retailing under 20k. It has all of the benefits of a Civic with supperior styling. The interrior is even on the lower trim models is nicer than many more expensive vehicles. If you test drive an compare it to a Civic, Jetta, or Sentra you will be blown away. The car is flat out awesome.

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  Zoom Zoom - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By mbelfatto - July 9 - 11:44 pm

  I have had my 2010 Mazda 3s for about 18 months now and overall Im quite satisfied with some draw backs. I decided to spend a little bit extra money and upgrade from the iTouring to the Sport sedan. I think that the Mazda interior is very stylish and great quality. There are a lot of amenities packed into that little tiny car. The car has great pick up especially when you stomp on the throttle in third gear, you can really feel the torque.

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  Zoom Zoom, indeed! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Michigan_guy - July 9 - 4:46 am

  Ive owned an 89 Toyota Tercel, an 02 Chevy Prism and now the Mazda. Love. It. Its got a lot longer gear ratio than most 4-cylinder cars and at highway speeds can very capably accelerate past everyone else whos not having as much fun in their car. The interior has an excellent design, the exterior looks fluid and lean and all of the mechanics seem above average on dependability and ergonomics. I might never buy a different car.

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  Mazda 3s Leak oil - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Vic Gallant - July 8 - 6:36 am

  Mines a lemon. It has an oil leak that the dealer cant fix. Theyve tried to repair it three times already. Ive owned the car for less than three months. Its been in the shop 20% of the time. Stay away from this car and if you have one check it for oil leaks.

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  Theres a reason for all this love. - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By jbevel - July 6 - 7:40 pm

  I compared this ride to the Honda Civic, Toyota Matrix, and Scion xB. Test drove all of them... saving the Mazda for last. What did the Mazda do that the other cars did not? It put a big fat smile on my face. I had to leave the dealer, knowing that I could not negotiate for this car... at the moment (I wanted it too much!) Its an excellent value for under $20K. Great attention to detail, excellent interior, fantastic to drive. The Dynamic Stability Control is awesome, turn it off to squeal tires...and to really feel the difference it makes! Love the ways it says "zoom-zoom" when I get in... then... "hello" when I turn it on.... then "goodbye" when I leave. LoL.

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  Best new car value - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By norcalsurfer - July 3 - 9:26 am

  Bought the car last week and have put 600 miles on it. The 17" wheels and independent front and rear suspension provide unsurpassed handling for a car in this price range. The 156 hp engine provides adequate power and acceleration. The 5 spd manual gear box is smooth and predictable, seats are firm and supportive while still being very comfortable. Smooth and straight on the highway at 80 mph. The car gets a little sketchy when manuevering through the twistys on uneven pavement. The stock goodyear tires are hard and noisy, but provide adequate grip on dry roads. Braking is superb and this is one super fun car to drive for under $17k.

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  Athletic-poetic-confidence inspiring - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Stuntmanbob - July 1 - 10:00 am

  I was so pleased with my Mazda3 and my decision to change based at the time solely on the 0% ARP for 5 years versus my 2008 which had 5.9% for 5 years at the best month that year . I shave huge sums of profit taking interest and go myself a Better car-- far far better Than I anticipated-- more like a BMW eater and Lexus cheater- So what I do give a - about labels If it preforms and delivers I am on it - who cares what the emblem says unless you are insecure. Which leads me to this observation- I have been new car viewing the last 5 years with extra close attention to front end styling- You know what I found - Cars are starting to look more aggressive, mean ,and intimidating- why- insecurity

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  2.0L i touring hatch - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By war03 - June 30 - 7:11 am

  picked up and drove it home (1000 miles). 44 and 45 mpg on two stretches (not all flat), 35mpg through high mountains/hills at 65 mph. best handling car ive had, feels like rwd. if you can get the 2.5L model, esp w/ a 6 speed it would be a blast. i couldnt swing the extra money at the time.

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  My Car ROCKS! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Virginia Mom - June 29 - 4:43 pm

  Looks great! Drives great! Has great pick-up on the highway - beats the 4-cylinder Honda Civic in this regard. Plenty of room for kids and equipment especially with the 40/60 fold down seats. Its sporty but practical. I have to agree with the other reviewer that the only problem is not having a trunk release on the key fob. Kind of inconvenient in this day and age. But with all this car has to offer I wouldnt change my mind over this small inconvenience. Highway mileage is 28-30 mpg.