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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  Audi A3/4 cant touch it. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jace L. - February 12 - 8:56 pm

  Reviewed all cars in segment including some premiums cars like BMW and Audi. Nothing compared for the money. Gas mileage is lacking, it only averages 23-24 mpg in city and maybe 28 if I only did highway driving. Built quality is amazing. Strong brakes and precise steering feel beats anything Ive driven. Bose stereo sounds great but can make doors buzz if turned up too loud, although it barely happens so its not much of a problem. Overall I couldnt be happier.

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  Well done - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By sketchy00 - February 12 - 3:30 pm

  The good parts: Smooth shifting, and clutch action that is really nice. I was worried about the light clutch action before I drove it, but it really engages nice. Solid feeling car. Tight handling, and still an ample amount of boost on the power steering. Sometimes smaller cars have been reducing the amount of power steering boost so much itÂ’s hard to tell they even have it. Nice to see all 07 Mazdas have an audio in jack for your iPod. Sure, it just sends a non-intelligent audio signal, but hey, itÂ’s better than nothing. Great styling. Vanity stinks, but I have to say that in this case, IÂ’m sure glad I went with the best looking car in its class.

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  lives up to zoom zoom slogan - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By claude cabral - February 11 - 11:50 pm

  Went on a 2000 mile holiday through mountains, foothills and plains and the Mazda 3s performance blew me away. I could downshift at high speeds and get a instant surge of power and acceleration because of its smooth high revving motor. Wind noise is low and car handled tight curves with control and confidence. Steering feel is accurate and tight. The dash appointments, layout and interior comfort is topnotch.The hatch with the 60-40 fold down seat is versatile and spacious. The styling of the car is eye catching and impressive. One of the most impressive options is the 5 speed automatic transmission with the manual override feature that I used all the time. I didnt miss the clutch at all.

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  Mazda3 5 door - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By tegra777 - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Variable Valve Timing mixed with a 2.3 liter 4 cylinder makes for great mileage and a good amount of zoom zoom. You will not find a more fun or practical car for the money. The Mazda 3 turns heads everywhere and is a blast to drive.

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  A COOL CAR TO OWN - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By SPECIES - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE THIS CAR - GREAT LOOK - PIZZA BOY LOVES TO DELIVER TO OUT HOUSE. HE SAID - COOL CAR!

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  Awesome machine - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By song9920 - February 8 - 10:00 am

  In terms of bang for the buck, this vehicle is unbeatable. Amazing fun to drive factor, terrific fuel economy, styling is clean and crisp and second- to-none build quality. Kudos to Mazda for a job well done!

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  Best car I have ever owned! - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By parolee - February 5 - 8:42 pm

  Bought used at 35,000 miles. This car is exactly what I was looking for. My hatchback is a manual transmission, and I love how it takes hills. Even in cruise control, it doesnt skip a beat. The steering is responsive. Its a fun little car to drive! Drove around the other day with 5 people in the car. One person 62 the rest 53 to 511. Everybody was comfortable!! IF youre any taller than 511, the backseat might not work for you with a fully loaded car. We still had plenty of storage in the hatchback to boot! The engine did not miss a beat. Slight loss of power out of 1st, but did fine other than that. For the class of car, this is the best option. Period!

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  Completely satisfied and utterly impressed - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By nld - February 5 - 9:52 am

  Tough to review this car in 700 characters, but look at me go wasting them. This is a great car. Its faster than I thought it would be. The automatic gearbox is terrific. The sport mode and paddle shifters are awesome. I averaged 38.5 mpg on my drive from the Bay Area to San Diego (mostly on the highway) and I get probably 28 mpg around town, so its definitely fuel efficient. The interior is great and so is the exterior. Feels very deluxe. Only put 1.5k on it thus far, so I cant speak for reliability or value, but from what I hear Mazdas do alright in those categories.

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  1 Year Review - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By mdurg - February 4 - 11:46 pm

  Was originally looking for a used A4 or maybe a Jetta when I noticed for the same price I could pick this up new. I drove all of the above and when I found that the Mazda 3 was just as fun to drive as the others it was a done deal. It has great styling, a good amount of power and rides well. Even after a year I still find it fun to drive on a daily basis. Keep in mind this is an economy car. Miscellaneous comments: I put in an aftermarket stereo. I changed the oil at 5k and 10k. I had a recall for an airbag sensor (fixed). The carpets are hard to vacuum. Console intrudes on leg area, and I have short legs.

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  Great purchase - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mazda3 for fun - February 3 - 5:03 am

  Purchased the car in October 2004. The car has GFX package, leather with 5 speed tran. No problems to signal after 8K/7 months of ownership. Car is very stable, feels solid and tight, has a firm but comfortable ride. Engine is very responsive and is a good performer. Car can turn on a dime! , 5 spd tran shifts moothly. Can cruise with ease at 80 + mph.