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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  Great car for the cash - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By monstamaniak - May 13 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my 3 for about 3 months and have logged 5000 miles. This is the most fun and precise machine Ive piloted that comes in the under 20K range.The steering is tight and the body roll is slim.The suspension allows if not encourages spirited runs through the twisties and the engine delivers good power and torque.The transmission operates smoothly and the shifter has that "snick-snick" feel like a well-built Euro machine.Everything about the car in my opinion is outstanding except the carpet.The leather seats are attractive and supportive,what went wrong when Mazda was picking the carpet?

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  Better than a rabbit - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By michael roman - May 10 - 1:16 am

  Drove the 07 Mazda and the 08 170hp VW, and still chose the Mazda. Overall, a more substantial car with better handling, more features: leather, xenon, infinitely adjustable drivers seat, etc. Im 64" and fit comfortably with the seat back erect. Truly a poor mans BMW.

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  Fun to drive, great price! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Patrick - May 1 - 3:16 am

  This car handles like a dream. Exterior looks great. I tell people the price and they just about fall over. A little cramped on the inside, but I am also 64", what could I expect. Carpet is cheap as is ceiling fabric. They had to cut costs somewhere. I would buy again if given the choice. Braking is great. Powerful engine, fun and easy shifting manual transmission.

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  Drives as good as my BMW 3! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Franklin - April 29 - 4:56 pm

  Hugs the roads and feels very tight on the steering. Fantastic.

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  Fantastic after 2 years - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sara - April 28 - 5:36 am

  This has been one of the best cars I have owned. I live in small town Oregon so rarely ever see a freeway or a big city. Mostly I drive 60 mph between towns. My gas mileage is 30.5 around town and 36mpg when traveling. The manual tran is fast and fun to drive. I have had zero problems in the 2 years with only required service when needed.

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  by far the best small car out there - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By gary - April 27 - 2:13 pm

  This car is awesome and the only car Ive ever had that I have truly loved. Go Mazda go.

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  Zoom, Zoom, Zoom - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By adam - April 25 - 8:56 pm

  I researched for several months beginning with a Caliber, then a Vibe, and a Matrix, before I finally found the Mazda 3, which had better reviews than all of these other cars and the Honda as well. I am extremely pleased with my purchase. Mine is True Red with black leather interior and I love it. I was previously driving an Intrepid which I loved. My wife now drives the Intrepid and I am blessed to drive my new Mazda. It drives so much better than the Intrepid (which really does drive well, just not as good as the Mazda) and is very peppy. I would definitely recommend that you buy this car if you are looking for something with good MPG, but also with a little power. I love this car!

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  Still A Great Little Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By R. H. Jackson - April 25 - 4:50 am

  I now have 7000 miles on the Mazda 3s Grand Touring and I am very pleased. The options, ride, performance, instrumentation, and handling are outstanding for a car in this price range. I have experienced no problems. I have only been back to the dealer for oil changes and tire rotation. Everyone who sees this car thinks it is a more expensive car than it is.

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  Great handling car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Dom - April 22 - 5:13 pm

  I have driven small sports cars or SUVs my whole life. This is the best blend of performance driving and utility that you can get, even if it is front wheel drive. The interior is fantastic and the electro-hydraulic steering is an undersold point in these cars. Its a very smooth driving car that livens up the instant you begin to push it. Awesome throttle response in 5th gear on the highway for a 4cyl. The seats are the quality that you find in much more expensive cars. Gripes: speed sensitive volume control on the stereo is useless, power windows/sunroof only work with ignition on, not accessory.

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  Love my car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By carol - April 20 - 12:56 am

  Ive had my hatchback for three weeks and absolutely love it. The ride is smooth and the car definitely has great pickup. The folding seats are great for storage and very easy to get up and down. It is a really comfortable car to drive. The air conditioning is good, the stereo great and the interior is very comfortable.