2008 Mazda Mazda3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.63/5 Average
201 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are now standard on all 's' trim levels.

Pros:
  • Athletic handling, refined and zippy engines, sharp styling, top-notch build and materials quality, sharp styling, hatchback utility, luxury features and ambiance at a budget price.
Cons:
  • So-so fuel economy with 2.3-liter engine, top safety equipment is optional on lower trim levels, tight rear legroom.

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 201.00
  • 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 s Touring - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I was shopping for a new car, had a 98 Honda Accord for 11 years, needed something sporty and fresh. I really liked the styling of the Mazda 3 and was attracted to the many features and 156 HP. Love at first sight at the dealership, took it for a test drive and was impressed by the tight handling of this car. Have put about 800 miles on it so far, mostly highway miles. I find the mpg is a bit lower than I had hoped for, but it might be that I just cant go slow in this car! So far my best mpg is about 28 when I keep it on cruise control 70mph. So many great features-roomy, stereo is awesome with 6 cd changer, tight cockpit, bright orange instrument panel, safety features-great deal for 17k!!

  • Mazda Is Horrible In Snow - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I would be happy with my Mazda if it werent horrible in the snow and ice - absolutely ZERO traction. And the braking system they have in it is awful as well - loud and unnerving.

  • Bummed out - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I was really excited to get this car except that its been in the shop 3 times in its first year. All with oxygen sensor problems which the service manager told me doesnt happen often. Well its happened 3 times with me and it sucks. Worried about how reliable this car will be down the road. I had planned on keeping this car for a long time now Im already looking for a replacement.

  • Ol Dads Retirement Present to Himself - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    This is my first new car since 1971 so I did lots of research and drove many cars before deciding on the Mazda 3. I needed the utility of 4 doors & a hatch, but wanted a car that was economical & fun. My driving is evenly mixed interstate & city, 5,000 miles since July. So far Im very pleased with the car. Its fun to drive, quick, handles like its on rails & never below 30 MPH. Mine is Copper Red, the interior is Beige & Black, very sharp. I have seen only a couple like mine in Indy. The 5-speed is precise & smooth. The traction control permits a squawk in 3 gears, with it off first gear will smoke the tires. Check out the competition, bang for the $$ Mazda wins;-) I would buy it again!

  • 5 Month Review - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Very happy with this purchase so far. Car performs well on the highway, but where it really shines is off the beaten path (this car loves curvy roads). TVE packed with features, though not quite the gas mileage I had read about... yet.

  • Looks good. Runs good. Excellent value. - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I like driving this car, even though I generally dislike automatic transmissions. I bought this mainly for my daughter, but shes away at college 7 months out of the year, so I get to drive it often. It shifts smoothly and quietly. Has plenty of quickness and power, and doesnt feel too small, like the Honda Fit, Nissan Versa and Scion xD. Excellent steering/handling. Plus, the gas mileage is pretty decent. I drive 90% city, and average 26.2 mpg. Road noise is a little high, but not a big distraction. It has every comfort and convenience feature one could ask for, yet the price is ridiculously low. Heck, in a BMW, you could spend the price of this car in accessories alone!

  • Mazda3 Grand Touring Automatic - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Got the Grand touring model, in Grey Mica, for my 19 year old daughter; Only option was the Moonroof Package, which included the Bose Stereo, 6 CD. Everything else was included: leather, climate control, heated seats, stability & traction control, side & head airbags. For 20k I thought this was a great little car. Other cars being considered were the Scion tC & HB. The car is quick for a 4 cylinder & very much fun to drive. Handles great. After 3000 miles we are getting about 24 miles per gal but that is mostly local driving. Buy one!

  • Great Car! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Very sporty, fun to drive and loaded with features. The seats are very comfortable, love the aux input, peppy engine (2.3) and best in class looks.

  • At this price point, the choice is clear - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I love my Mazda3 hatchback. It looks good both inside and out. It scoots around well enough and shines on the twisties. A lot of car for the money. I paid $17k with a year-end $2000 rebate for the S model with an automatic. I would have preferred a stick but had to compromise with the Mrs and opt for the auto - Ive been very pleased with it though and have zero regrets with this choice of transmission. The best word to described this car is "zippy". I always look forward to getting behind the wheel. My anyone would rather buy any other car in the same price range is beyond me - but Im glad they do because 3s arent as ubiquitous as they should be.

  • New, but impressed so far - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I looked at all of the standard compact vehicles. Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Nissan Versa. So far I am impressed with this car. I have always been a Honda and Toyota guy and we still have a Tundra and a CRV as our standard drivers. We needed something for gas mileage and went with this car and so far feel very impressed. First day, one hundred mile mixed driving we got a little over 31 mpg (standard tranny). It drips with quality in the interior. I think the only thing that I dont like the quality of the carpets, but overall I think its fantastic for the price. Hope it holds up.

Mazda Mazda3 Reviews By Year:
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